This post was originally published on September 22, 2022. It has been updated to include news of Norman Lear’s death on December 6, 2023.
There was a remarkable period in the 1970s when Norman Lear, who passed away on December 6, 2023, at the age of 101, was the cultural compass of America. He had an uncanny ability to gather audiences around their TV sets, transforming the sitcom landscape forever.
Lear’s journey in television began in 1951, writing jokes for Jack Haley on “Ford Star Revue.” Initially, he focused on humor, but as the 1960s unfolded, Lear sought to merge comedy with relevance, addressing the social unrest of the era. His early attempts might have floundered if not for a serendipitous shift in the TV industry.
In the late 1960s, ABC was seen as the hip network with shows like “The Mod Squad” and “That Girl.” Lear and his partner Bud Yorkin pitched a sitcom about a blue-collar family clashing over politics. After several rejections and rewrites, ABC passed on the project. This might have been the end of the story, but a shake-up at CBS opened a new door.
Fred Silverman, a visionary executive at CBS, convinced the network to embrace more urban-themed comedies. He saw potential in Lear’s pilot, then called “Those Were the Days.” After a fortuitous screening, CBS executives were in stitches, and “All in the Family” was born.
The show premiered in 1971, featuring Carroll O’Connor as Archie Bunker, a character inspired by Lear’s own father. Despite initial mixed reviews, it quickly became a sensation, winning Emmys and topping ratings charts. “All in the Family” tackled issues like racism, politics, and family dynamics with a boldness unseen on television.
Lear’s success didn’t stop there. Throughout the 1970s, he created a string of hit shows that defined the era: “Sanford and Son,” “Maude,” “Good Times,” “The Jeffersons,” and “One Day at a Time.” His comedies were characterized by sharp writing, strong performances, and a willingness to address controversial topics. At the height of his influence, Lear had nine series airing in prime time, captivating half of America.
As the decade ended, Lear’s dominance waned. He ventured into politics, founding People for the American Way in 1980. His shows continued to resonate in reruns, introducing new generations to his groundbreaking work. Lear’s influence persisted into the 21st century, with modern adaptations of his classics and new projects reflecting his enduring commitment to social justice.
Critics have debated whether “All in the Family” challenged bigotry or inadvertently gave bigots a hero in Archie Bunker. Nonetheless, the impact of Lear’s work is undeniable. At its peak, his comedy reached 120 million weekly viewers, a feat unmatched in today’s fragmented media landscape.
Lear’s genius lay in his ability to entertain while provoking thought. He saw television as a tool for cultural change, and he wielded it masterfully. Norman Lear’s legacy is a testament to the power of storytelling in shaping society, making him a true titan of television.
Aaron Barnhart has written about television since 1994, including 15 years as a TV critic for the Kansas City Star.
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