Sally Struthers, the beloved actress who brought Gloria Stivic to life on “All in the Family,” not only gained worldwide fame and two Emmy Awards from the iconic show but also found a father figure in her co-star, Carroll O’Connor.
Over five decades have passed since “All in the Family” first aired, yet Struthers still receives admiration for her memorable performance. Her undeniable chemistry with O’Connor, who played her on-screen father Archie Bunker, was a key element that made the show a beloved classic. Struthers has openly acknowledged the profound impact O’Connor had on her life, especially after losing her own father in 1968, just three years before the show’s debut.
Breaking into the Spotlight
Before landing her role on “All in the Family,” Struthers was relatively unknown in Hollywood. She had only minor roles in films and appeared on shows like “The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour” and “The Tim Conway Comedy Hour.” After being fired from the latter show for allegedly making it look “cheap,” Struthers faced an uncertain future. However, her fortunes changed when she auditioned for “All in the Family” creator Norman Lear, despite suffering from laryngitis at the time. Her distinctive raspy voice left a lasting impression, and she secured the role of Gloria, beating out other talented actresses, including Penny Marshall.
A Second Father
Struthers and O’Connor quickly formed a close bond on set. Their relationship mirrored that of a real father and daughter, with O’Connor providing guidance, support, and even introducing Struthers to her future husband, William Rader. Struthers described O’Connor and his wife, Nancy, as being as parental in real life as he was on the show, filling a void left by her own father’s passing.
The Pain of Loss
The bond between Struthers and O’Connor deepened as they shared personal tragedies. In 1995, O’Connor’s adopted son, Hugh, died by suicide after a long battle with drug addiction. The devastating loss led O’Connor to become a vocal advocate against drug abuse, spearheading the Drug Dealer Liability Act in California, also known as the Hugh O’Connor Memorial Law.
Life After “All in the Family”
Following her success on “All in the Family,” Struthers continued to find success in television. She reprised her role as Gloria in the spin-offs “Archie Bunker’s Place” and “Gloria,” and starred in the sitcom “Nine to Five” during the 1980s. Her role as Babette Dell in “Gilmore Girls” brought her a new generation of fans.
Struthers also became a passionate spokesperson for ChildFund and represented the International Correspondence School, showing her dedication to causes beyond her acting career. Although she has been away from the limelight for a while, at 74, fans eagerly anticipate her potential comeback.
A Lasting Legacy
Carroll O’Connor passed away in 2001 from a heart attack, leaving behind a legacy as one of television’s most beloved actors. His role as Archie Bunker, coupled with his real-life advocacy work, cemented his status as a legend. Sally Struthers continues to honor his memory, cherishing the fatherly bond they shared and the impact he had on her life.
As we look back on the rich history of “All in the Family,” it’s clear that the show’s success was not just due to its groundbreaking content, but also the deep, genuine relationships formed behind the scenes. Sally Struthers and Carroll O’Connor’s connection remains a testament to the enduring power of television to create real, lasting bonds.
