Television Legend Norman Lear, Known For 'All In The Family' Passes Away At 101

TV & Film

Dec 8

Television writer, producer, creative, political activist, and all-around icon Norman Lear passed away on December 5, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. The cause of death is not specified beyond natural causes. According to the creator's website, Lear died surrounded by love and family. He was 101.

Lear was born on July 27, 1922, in New Haven, Connecticut. He was raised in a Jewish household with a younger sister; his family became the inspiration for one of his biggest television hits. He dropped out of college in 1942, electing to enlist in the U.S. Air Force; during his service, Lear received a Decorated Air Medal. When he returned home in 1945, he entered public relations and eventually moved to California.

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All In The Family cast — Image Source: *IMDb*

Lear was writing for comedies as early as the 50s. In 1959, he along with Bud Yorkin formed a film studio called Tandem Productions. Outside of the film career, he worked on one of his most well-known shows, All in the Family. The 1970s saw an iconic peak in his career, sitcom hit after hit coming out of production, including The Jeffersons, Maude, and One Day at a Time. When not working on his television content, Lear was heavily involved in politics, fighting for the rights and liberties of his country. He founded the progressive advocacy group People for the American Way in 1980.

Lear’s impact on both the industry and the political landscape will continue to ring for years to come. He is survived by his wife Lyn Davis Lear and his six children, Ellen, Brianna, Kate, Maggie, Madeline, and Ben, as well as four grandchildren. The funeral service is a private affair, open to immediate family only. His family asks for people to donate to the People for the American Way rather than sending flowers or anything of the sort. Our deepest condolences go out to his loved ones. Remember to respect the family’s privacy in this time of grieving; they have “specifically requested privacy at this time.”

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