Norman Lear, a trailblazer in the world of television, might not ring a bell for those born post-2000, but his impact on ’70s TV comedy is an unsung saga. While modern shows like The Office and Game of Thrones reign supreme, Lear’s legacy, as labeled by TV producer Phil Rosenthal, carved a new era in television history. Additionally, dividing it into “BN and AN, Before Norman and After Norman.”

Sadly, on December 6, 2023, at the age of 101, Lear bid farewell, leaving an immense void in the industry. Many celebrities came out paying their heartfelt tribute. Yet here, we commemorate his incredible contributions by shedding light on his seminal works, guiding on where to catch them, each a slice of history.

All in the Family

The iconic sitcom All in the Family kicked off its trailblazing journey in 1971, turning heads by tackling some thorny societal issues. The show took the audacious step of intertwining comedy with weighty matters such as race and politics, forging a new path for television.

Over its nine seasons, the series bagged an impressive 22 Primetime Emmy Awards. Ranked as the fourth best series ever made, this gem can be streamed for free on Amazon Freevee or Pluto TV, reliving its timeless and impactful narrative.

Maude

Maude, a spinoff stemming from the acclaimed All in the Family, centered on the character of Edith Bunker’s cousin, Maude Findlay. It depicted a bold and independent woman, unafraid to confront societal taboos. Just like its predecessor, the show ventured into challenging topics such as abortion and drugs, never shying away from controversy.

For those intrigued by the daring themes, the series is available for free streaming on Pluto TV in the US or can be rented through digital on-demand platforms.

The Jeffersons

A spinoff stemming from the Jefferson family featured in All in the Family, took flight as a more favored show compared to its predecessor, Good Times. Centered on the Jeffersons’ relocation to an upscale apartment, the series delved into social issues while navigating the intricacies of forging new relationships with their posh neighbors.

The Jeffersons is accessible for free streaming on Tubi in the US and on Prime Video. Meanwhile, UK audiences can access it via digital on-demand platforms.

One Day at a Time

Lear had his hand in two versions of One Day at a Time. The first, crafted by Lear in 1975, revolved around a single mother navigating life while raising her two daughters, aiming to give them the freedom she missed out on. The more recent adaptation was helmed by Gloria Calderón Kellett and Mike Royce, with Lear onboard as a producer.

For those interested, the 1975 edition is available for free streaming on Pluto TV and Tubi TV. Meanwhile, the 2017 rendition can be found on Netflix for viewers to enjoy.

America Divided

In the documentary series America Divided, Norman Lear took on the role of executive producer. Moreover, he even made appearances in a couple of episodes. The show, which aired before and after the 2016 election, featured a star-studded cast including America Ferrera whose Ugly Betty is also available on Netflix. 

America Divided is available for streaming on Prime Video, allowing viewers to delve into the insightful discussions and stories presented by the documentary.

Which one of the works of Norman Lear are your top picks? Let us know in the comments below.