Legendary Television Impresario Norman Lear Dies at 98, Leaving an Unforgettable Legacy of Social Justice and Groundbreaking Comedy

Norman Lear, the influential television impresario who dominated the American prime-time comedy lineup in the 1970s, has died at the age of 98, his family confirmed Wednesday.

Lear was responsible for some of the most seminal comedies in television history, including “All in the Family,” “Sanford and Son,” “Maude,” “Good Times,” “The Jeffersons” and “One Day at a Time,” as well as its 2017 reboot anchored by a Latino cast. His hugely popular shows tackled hot-button issues that network executives and some viewers had long considered taboo, such as racism, sexism, the women’s liberation movement, antisemitism, abortion, and more.

Lear got his start as a writer for radio and TV in the post-war years, and his shows routinely tackled serious social issues, some rarely seen on TV before. His most famous show, “All in the Family,” starred Carroll O’Connor as the working-class loudmouth Archie Bunker, who spouted narrow-minded opinions and raged against the changing times.

Lear was a prolific writer and producer, winning numerous awards throughout his career, including four Emmy Awards, a Peabody Award, and the National Medal of Arts. He was also the first television producer to receive the Kennedy Center Honors.

Lear’s influence on television and culture is undeniable, and his legacy will live on for generations to come. He will be remembered for his groundbreaking shows that pushed the boundaries of what was acceptable on television, and for his commitment to social justice.