Jean Stapleton has a very harsh reaction to critics who say “All in the Family” is “dirty”.
Jean Stapleton had this response to critics who said that ”All in the Family” was ”dirty”
All in the Family was a revolutionary show that shattered numerous barriers during its time on television. It boldly tackled a variety of contentious issues, offering an unfiltered and profound reflection of society, often challenging the limits set by censors.
The show’s groundbreaking nature extended beyond its provocative themes. It also redefined on-screen relationships. Before Archie and Edith Bunker, audiences were accustomed to the idyllic portrayals of couples like Lucy and Desi. Archie and Edith, however, were modeled in part after creator Norman Lear’s own parents, offering a more realistic depiction of a married couple. Despite some exaggerations for dramatic or comedic effect, their interactions often mirrored those of a couple who had been together for decades, providing a refreshing authenticity.
The show’s candid approach inevitably drew criticism from some viewers, who found its content vulgar and were vocal about their disapproval. In an interview with The Morning Call, Jean Stapleton, who played Edith Bunker, had a fitting response to those critics. She recalled receiving comments such as, “How could you, a Christian woman, do this?” and notes expressing distaste for scenes where Archie and Edith were in bed together, deeming them unattractive in their nightclothes. Stapleton’s reply was succinct and profound: “We’re real.”
Stapleton further discussed the show’s societal impact in an interview with The Christian Science Monitor News Service. She asserted, “I believe that the overall effect of the show was positive and constructive.” She elaborated on how the show not only influenced society but was also shaped by it. In an interview with the Corpus Christi Caller-Times, Stapleton highlighted Edith’s evolution, stating, “Edith is growing, as women are growing.”
In essence, All in the Family did more than entertain; it sparked conversations, challenged societal norms, and portrayed genuine human relationships, leaving an indelible mark on television history.