All in the Family remains one of the most iconic American sitcoms, influencing pop culture even today. Its legacy was honored with a special reboot, featuring Marisa Tomei as Edith Bunker, a role originally played by the award-winning Jean Stapleton. Despite her initial reservations, Tomei’s portrayal has brought a fresh yet respectful take on the beloved character.
A Nervous Start for Tomei
Tomei admits she was apprehensive when Norman Lear, the original creator, approached her to play Edith in ABC’s Live in Front of a Studio Audience: Norman Lear’s ‘All in the Family’ and ‘The Jeffersons’. The special starred Tomei alongside Woody Harrelson as Archie Bunker and was produced by Lear and Jimmy Kimmel, restaging episodes from the two classic shows.
“I was very, very scared to do the [All in the Family theme] song at the opening,” Tomei shared. “We had done a taped version, which was always the plan. But [director] Jimmy Burrows thought it would be so much more fun to do it live. I was scared I was going to get laryngitis from the fear of it — or that I would cry, because I found it very emotional to be part of this experience.”
Despite her fears, Tomei felt honored to be part of the project. “I felt very touched and honored and tickled, but I also was terrified. But we even talked about it in that first call: ‘This is ridiculous. Why touch something that is perfection?’ I guess I just felt that the love won out. I love the show, I love him, and my love overcame the fear of doing it. So I said, ‘OK, I’ll need a wig and someone to stretch my voice.’”
The Evolution of Edith Bunker
Tomei also reflected on Edith Bunker’s character and how Jean Stapleton played a crucial role in shaping her. Stapleton not only portrayed Edith but also co-created the scripts, infusing her own personality and traits into the character, which helped define the show’s direction.
“In the very beginning of the show, when it first started, Edith’s character is much more somber. The pitch of her voice is lower,” Tomei observed. “It’s clear that all of them were making adjustments for her character along the way to make her what she is today.”
Stapleton’s contributions helped evolve Edith from a more subdued character into the endearing and iconic figure loved by audiences. Tomei’s performance honors this legacy while adding her own unique touch to Edith’s timeless charm.
A New Take on a Classic
The ABC reboot, starring Tomei and Harrelson, aimed to pay homage to the original while bringing the story to a new generation. Tomei’s dedication and heartfelt performance shine through, capturing the essence of Edith Bunker and reminding viewers why All in the Family remains a beloved classic.
For those who haven’t seen it yet, take a look at the full intro song from the ABC reboot starring Woody Harrelson and Marisa Tomei, and relive the magic of All in the Family with a fresh perspective.
