Jean Stapleton, best known for her portrayal of Edith Bunker on the groundbreaking television series “All in the Family,” would have turned 100 this year. Though the role brought her immense fame, Stapleton harbored a complex relationship with her character, hoping most American housewives were nothing like Edith. In reality, Stapleton’s life and career were a testament to her remarkable talent and enduring spirit.
Edith Bunker: A Role Both Loved and Loathed
“All in the Family,” which aired from 1971 to 1979, showcased the Bunker family’s daily trials and triumphs, with Edith Bunker standing out as a slow-witted yet endearing figure. Despite Edith’s humor and humanity, Stapleton often spoke against the character’s submissiveness and limited worldview.
“What Edith represents is the housewife who is still in bondage to the male figure, very submissive, and restricted to the home,” Stapleton once said. “She is very naive, and she kind of thinks through a mist, and she lacks the education to expand her world.”
Stapleton’s portrayal of Edith earned her three Emmy Awards and cemented her status as an iconic TV figure, even if she wished for a different kind of recognition.
A Stellar Career Beyond Edith
Born Jeanne Murray on January 19, 1923, Stapleton was a graduate of Wadleigh High School and trained in off-Broadway productions at the American Theater Wing. Her Hollywood career was illustrious, featuring roles in productions like “Damn Yankees,” “Route 66,” “Studio One,” and “Dr. Kildare.” Despite her association with Edith, Stapleton’s versatility as an actress shone through in various roles, earning her eight Emmy nominations.
After “All in the Family,” Stapleton appeared in “Archie Bunker’s Place” for a season before pursuing other opportunities. She starred in “Eleanor, First Lady of the World” and “Grace Under Fire,” adding more Emmy nominations to her repertoire.
Life Behind the Camera
Stapleton’s personal life was a stark contrast to Edith’s. She was married to William H. Putch, a producer and director at Totem Pole Playhouse. Together, they had two children, Pamela and John, both of whom followed in their parents’ footsteps in the entertainment industry.
“My husband doesn’t have the male chauvinist attitude that the woman’s place is in the kitchen,” Stapleton once shared. “He likes to be married to a woman who has more interests outside the home. He thinks that makes her more interesting.”
The couple’s courtship, which began as pen pals and lasted eight years, culminated in a loving marriage in 1957. Putch was a supportive partner, often taking on domestic responsibilities, a dynamic far removed from Edith and Archie’s relationship.
Tragedy and Endurance
In 1983, tragedy struck when Putch died of a heart attack at 60. He had been battling cancer and was part of an experimental program at the National Institutes of Health. Despite his illness, Putch remained hopeful, largely due to Stapleton’s unwavering support.
After his death, Stapleton continued to honor his legacy by keeping their theater alive and performing in plays they had collaborated on. She never remarried, remaining a devoted widow for 29 years until her passing on May 31, 2013, at the age of 90.
A Legacy Remembered
Jean Stapleton’s death prompted heartfelt tributes from colleagues and fans alike, including “All in the Family” creator Norman Lear. While she will always be remembered as Edith Bunker, her legacy extends far beyond that role. Stapleton’s life was a rich tapestry of love, talent, and resilience, reflecting the very best of what it means to be a dedicated artist and a loving family member.
In celebrating Jean Stapleton, we honor not just an iconic actress but a remarkable woman whose life and work continue to inspire.
