The Genius Behind ‘All in the Family’ and ‘Good Times’

Sometimes I just need to pinch myself and ask, "Is this real life?"

My job is amazing, and the list of people I have had the chance to talk to over the years is really unbelievable. This has to be right up there at the top. The man is responsible for All in the Family, Good Times, Sanford and Son, The Jeffersons and Maude.

Now, think about what all those shows have in common. The fact is, they took on racial and social issues head on at a time when this country needed to laugh at itself. Does that not sound like something we need now?

The character of Archie Bunker was probably the single greatest achievement in American television history. The whole idea was insane. You have a completely racist and sexist character that had a lovable side. You have to present him to the viewing audience as such, not alienate your audience members, and try and open a few eyes all at the same time. They did it incredibly well.

Well, now, the man behind all of that will be talking with Ethan and I tomorrow morning at 8:15. That is right, 94-year-old Norman Lear will join us. Don't miss it.