The iconic sitcom All in the Family first graced television screens on January 12, 1971, and remained a beloved fixture until its final episode on April 8, 1979. Created by Norman Lear, the show starred Carroll O’Connor as Archie Bunker, a World War II veteran and blue-collar worker living with his family in Queens, New York. O’Connor’s portrayal of the bigoted, outspoken Archie, who often clashed with his liberal son-in-law Mike Stivic, played by Rob Reiner, became a cultural touchstone.
The Emmy-winning series’ immense success led to several spinoffs, including The Jeffersons and Archie Bunker’s Place. Today, All in the Family continues to entertain through reruns and streaming services, prompting many viewers to wonder about the current status of its cast members. Here’s a look at which stars are still with us and what they’re doing now.
Supporting Cast Members
One of the standout supporting actors was Sherman Hemsley, who played the Bunkers’ neighbor before moving on up in The Jeffersons. Hemsley passed away on July 24, 2012, due to a complication of lung cancer known as Superior Vena Cava Syndrome.
Bea Arthur, another notable guest star, appeared as Edith Bunker’s cousin before headlining her own show, Maude. Arthur died of cancer at her Los Angeles home on April 25, 2009.
Carroll O’Connor
Carroll O’Connor, who masterfully portrayed Archie Bunker, enjoyed a television career spanning four decades. After All in the Family and Archie Bunker’s Place, he starred in the drama In the Heat of the Night as Police Chief William “Bill” Gillespie and later played the father of Jamie Buchman (Helen Hunt) in Mad About You. O’Connor passed away on June 21, 2001, at the age of 76, following a heart attack.
Jean Stapleton
Jean Stapleton brought warmth and depth to the character of Edith Bunker, Archie’s devoted wife. She chose to leave Archie’s Place, effectively making Archie a widower, to pursue other roles and preserve her identity as an actress. Stapleton went on to earn an Emmy nomination for her portrayal of Eleanor Roosevelt in Eleanor, First Lady of the World. Her final acting role was 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
Sally Struthers, who played Gloria Stivic, the Bunkers’ daughter, continued to have a vibrant acting career after her time on All in the Family. She appeared in shows like 9 to 5, General Hospital, and Still Standing, and is also well-known for her role as Babette Dell on the popular series Gilmore Girls. Struthers has one child, Samantha, with her ex-husband William C. Rader.
Rob Reiner
Rob Reiner, who played Archie’s son-in-law Mike Stivic, has enjoyed a prolific career as an actor, director, and producer. He directed classic films such as Stand by Me, Misery, A Few Good Men, and When Harry Met Sally. Reiner was once married to Penny Marshall; they divorced in 1981. He later married photographer Michele Singer, whom he met while directing When Harry Met Sally.
All in the Family remains a seminal piece of television history, and its cast members have left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. While some have passed on, their legacies endure through their impactful work, both on and off the screen.