Norman Lear is a living legend in the world of television. Responsible for some of the most iconic and beloved shows in history, including “All in the Family”, “The Jeffersons”, “Good Times”, and “One Day at a Time”, Lear has worked with many of Hollywood’s biggest names in his illustrious career. As he approaches his 100th birthday, Lear took time to reflect on some of his biggest inspirations in an exclusive interview with E! News.
Surprising Admiration
Much to the surprise of many, Lear revealed that “there’s nobody in our business I have admired more over a long time” than Trey Parker and Matt Stone, the creators of “South Park”. Lear’s admiration for Parker and Stone runs so deep that he even flew to Hawaii to marry Parker to his then-wife Emma Sugiyama. Lear voiced Benjamin Franklin in an episode of the satirical animated show and even attended a writers’ retreat, contributing some ideas that made it onto the show.
On Timeless Comedy
Lear shared his insight on timeless comedy, which he believes lies in the fact that “human nature is human nature.” He maintains that people today will still laugh at Archie Bunker and Edith from “All in the Family” just as much as they did when the show first aired. While culture has shifted and changed over time, Lear argues that the way families experience life remains the same, making performances from his shows just as glorious today as they were decades ago.
Honoring a Lifetime of Achievement
ABC will celebrate Lear’s incredible life and legacy with a special titled “Norman Lear: 100 Years of Music and Laughter”, which will air on Sept. 22 at 9 p.m. The show will feature intimate conversations, special performances, and surprise reunions honoring the man behind some of television’s greatest stories. A-listers like George Clooney, Tom Hanks, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Jennifer Aniston will make appearances, and musical numbers will pay tribute to iconic sitcom theme songs performed by Kristen Bell, Anthony Anderson, and Kelly Rowland.
Lear’s career has been nothing short of legendary. He revolutionized the television industry with shows that tackled important social and political issues, while still being wildly entertaining. But perhaps Lear’s greatest gift to the world of television was his ability to showcase the humanity and humor in everyday life. His shows resonated with audiences then, and continue to do so now, proving that great comedy is truly timeless.
As we approach Lear’s 100th birthday, it’s clear that his comedic genius will continue to inspire and entertain for many years to come. His impact on television is immeasurable, and his cultural influence will continue to be felt in the generations of television writers and creators who follow in his footsteps. Norman Lear will always be remembered as one of the great pioneers of American television, and his legacy will live on forever.