The iconic sitcom All in the Family made its debut on January 12, 1971, captivating audiences with its sharp humor and unflinching portrayal of American life until it wrapped up on April 8, 1979. Created by the legendary Norman Lear, the show starred Carroll O’Connor as Archie Bunker, a gruff World War II veteran and working-class stiff living in Queens, New York. Archie was a man of strong, often controversial opinions, who frequently butted heads with his liberal son-in-law, Mike Stivic, played by Rob Reiner.
This Emmy-winning series didn’t just make waves during its original run—it also gave rise to several successful spinoffs, including The Jeffersons and Archie Bunker’s Place. Even today, All in the Family continues to find new viewers through reruns and streaming platforms, prompting many fans to wonder: which of the original cast members are still with us, and what have they been up to? Let’s dive into the lives of the surviving stars and honor the memories of those who’ve passed on.
Supporting Cast Members Who Left Their Mark
Sherman Hemsley, who brought to life the unforgettable neighbor George Jefferson before moving on up to his own show, passed away on July 24, 2012, due to complications from lung cancer. Bea Arthur, who made her mark as Edith Bunker’s cousin before starring in Maude, left us on April 25, 2009, after battling cancer.
Carroll O’Connor: The Man Behind Archie Bunker
Carroll O’Connor, the indomitable Archie Bunker, had a TV career that spanned four decades. After All in the Family and its sequel Archie Bunker’s Place concluded, O’Connor found new success in the drama In the Heat of the Night, where he portrayed police chief William “Bill” Gillespie. He also charmed audiences as Jamie Buchman’s father in Mad About You. Sadly, O’Connor passed away on June 21, 2001, at the age of 76 after suffering a heart attack.
Jean Stapleton: The Heart of the Bunker Family
Jean Stapleton, who played Archie’s loving and patient wife Edith, chose to step away from the role after All in the Family ended, leading to Edith’s off-screen death in Archie Bunker’s Place. Stapleton wanted to explore new roles, explaining, “My identity as an actress is in jeopardy if I invest my entire career in Edith Bunker.” She continued her illustrious career, earning an Emmy nomination for portraying Eleanor Roosevelt and taking on her final role in Like Mother Like Son: The Strange Story of Sante and Kenny Kimes. Stapleton passed away on May 31, 2013, at the age of 90.
Sally Struthers: Gloria Bunker’s Enduring Legacy
Sally Struthers, who played the Bunkers’ spirited daughter Gloria, has enjoyed a long and varied career post-All in the Family. She appeared in numerous shows, including 9 to 5, General Hospital, and Still Standing. Struthers is perhaps best known in recent years for her role as Babette Dell on the beloved series Gilmore Girls. She is the proud mother of one daughter, Samantha, with her ex-husband William C. Rader.
Rob Reiner: From ‘Meathead’ to Hollywood Powerhouse
Rob Reiner, who played Archie’s opinionated son-in-law Mike Stivic, has made a name for himself as a successful actor, director, and producer. Reiner has directed several cinematic classics, including Stand by Me, Misery, A Few Good Men, and When Harry Met Sally. Off-screen, Reiner was married to Penny Marshall before their divorce in 1981. He later found love with photographer Michele Singer, whom he met while directing When Harry Met Sally.
As we look back on the legacy of All in the Family, it’s clear that the impact of its cast and creators continues to resonate, both on-screen and off.
