New Delhi: Hollywood TV writer and producer Norman Lear has passed away. The TV legend who revolutionised American comedy with daring and popular sitcoms of 'All in the Family' and 'Sanford and Son' in the 70s died on Tuesday. He was 101 years old.
Lear's publicist confirmed the news of his death to Variety.com. The veteran died of natural causes.
Lear's family put out a statement that read, “Thank you for the moving outpouring of love and support in honor of our wonderful husband, father, and grandfather. Norman lived a life of creativity, tenacity, and empathy. He deeply loved our country and spent a lifetime helping to preserve its founding ideals of justice and equality for all. Knowing and loving him has been the greatest of gifts. We ask for your understanding as we mourn privately in celebration of this remarkable human being.”
Norman Lear made a mark in the TV industry by addressing serious political, cultural and social issues such as racism, abortion, homosexuality, the Vietnam war and more.
Norman Lear's 'All in the Family' was so popular that it accounted for no less than six spin-offs.
The prolific producer and screenwriter wrote, created and developed over 100 shows, Lear was immensely popular in the 70s. During his later years, he continued to actively produce TV, including the 2017 remake of 'One Day at a Time' and the Netflix revival of 'Good Times' in 2022.
Lear was also a recipient of many awards, including six Primetime Emmys, two Peabody Awards, the National Medal of Arts, Television Academy Hall of Fame and more.
Lear was also known for his liberal political activism.
Lear also served in the United States Army during WWII. He flew 52 combat missions and was awardsed the Air Medal with four oak leaf clusters.
Lear and his fellow WW II crew members were features in the books 'Crew Umbriago, by Daniel P. Carroll (tail gunner), and '772nd Bomb Squadron: The Men, The Memories'.