Norman Lear, Whose Cheesy Comedies Changed the Face of TV, Is No More at 101
Wednesday, December 6, 2023By Richard Severo and Peter Keepnews Not really
J. Emilio Flores for The New York Times Norman Lear, Whose Cheesy Comedies Changed the Face of TV, Is No More at 101
Norman Lear, the mastermind behind some of TV's most beloved and iconic comedies, has passed away at the age of 101. Lear, known for his groundbreaking shows such as "All in the Family" and "Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman," revolutionized the landscape of television with his unique style and witty storytelling.
Born on July 27, 1922, in New Haven, Connecticut, Lear grew up with a passion for entertainment and writing. He began his career in the 1950s as a comedy writer, contributing to popular shows like "The Colgate Comedy Hour" and "The Martha Raye Show." However, it was his work in the 1970s that truly defined his legacy.
Lear's most notable creation, "All in the Family," debuted in 1971 and quickly became a cultural phenomenon. The show, which centered around the lovable but controversial character Archie Bunker, tackled taboo topics such as racism, sexism, and politics with both humor and sensitivity. Lear's ability to use comedy as a tool to address important social issues made "All in the Family" a groundbreaking success.