All in the Family is a television classic that changed the landscape of sitcoms and sparked conversations about politics, race, and societal issues. For those who grew up watching Archie Bunker, Edith Bunker, and their hilarious family, it’s hard to imagine a world without them. But as time passes, many of the talented actors from the series have sadly passed on. However, some of the cast members are still with us, carrying on the legacy of All in the Family. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the iconic actors who are still alive and share their achievements since the show ended. From the beloved Bunker family to the memorable neighbors and friends, find out which actors remain from the cast that forever changed TV history. The Unforgettable Legacy of All in the Family When All in the Family premiered in 1971, it broke new ground in television. The show centered around the Bunker family, led by the gruff, bigoted, yet lovable Archie Bunker. The sitcom used humor to address serious societal issues like Racism, sexism, and the generational divide, making it revolutionary for its time. While many of the actors have passed on, their roles continue to live on in our hearts and minds. 1. Rob Reiner (Michael “Meathead” Stivic) The Political Foil to Archie Bunker One of the most beloved characters on All in the Family was Michael “Meathead” Stivic, portrayed by Rob Reiner. Meathead, the liberal, intellectual son-in-law of Archie Bunker, often found himself at odds with Archie over politics, gender roles , and cultural values. Reiner’s portrayal of the character was central to the show’s dynamic, providing the perfect counterpoint to Archie’s conservative views. Since All in the Family, Rob Reiner has become one of Hollywood’s most successful directors and producers. He directed iconic films like When Harry Met Sally, A Few Good Men, and The Princess Bride. Reiner is also known for his advocacy work and has remained active in politics, often using his platform to express his liberal views. Despite his extensive career behind the camera, Reiner’s legacy will always be tied to his role as Meathead, the character who stood up to Archie’s outdated beliefs. 2. Sally Struthers (Gloria Stivic) From Archie’s Daughter to TV Icon Sally Struthers played Gloria Stivic, Archie’s daughter and Meathead’s wife. Gloria was the bridge between the older, more conservative generation and the younger, more progressive one. Struthers brought warmth and charm to the character, making Gloria an important part of the family dynamic. Her character often had to mediate between her father’s bigoted views and her husband’s liberal ideologies, adding both humor and depth to the show. Since All in the Family, Sally Struthers has continued to work in television and film. She gained further recognition for her role in Gilmore Girls and has also done voice work for various animated series. Struthers remains a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, and her legacy in the world of sitcoms will always be remembered. 3. Norman Lear (Creator and Executive Producer) The Visionary Behind the Bunkers While not an actor, Norman Lear’s role in All in the Family cannot be overstated. As the creator of the show, Lear revolutionized television with his bold, unapologetic approach to storytelling. He tackled controversial issues head-on, challenging societal norms and sparking debates on important topics such as race, gender, and politics. Lear’s ability to blend humor with social commentary made All in the Family one of the most influential sitcoms of all time. Norman Lear is still alive and continues to be an active figure in the entertainment industry. He remains a passionate advocate for social change and is involved in various charitable endeavors. At the age of 101, Lear shows no signs of slowing down, and his influence on TV remains profound. 4. Jason Wingreen (Harry the Bartender) The Quirky Bartender Who Made His Mark Jason Wingreen’s role as Harry the Bartender on All in the Family was brief but memorable. Wingreen played a bartender who had his fair share of interactions with the Bunkers, particularly Archie. While not one of the main characters, Wingreen’s portrayal of the somewhat quirky, calm bartender added a layer of warmth to the show’s often heated debates. Wingreen passed away in 2015, but it is worth mentioning that his work on All in the Family left a lasting impact on fans. Wingreen had a lengthy career in television and film, with appearances on shows like The Odd Couple and Star Trek. His contribution to the All in the Family ensemble is still fondly remembered. 5. Jean Stapleton (Edith Bunker) The Heart of the Bunker Family Jean Stapleton played Edith Bunker, Archie’s long-suffering yet deeply loving wife. Edith was the emotional core of the Bunker family, often playing the peacemaker between Archie and the rest of the world. Stapleton’s portrayal of Edith was heartwarming, humorous, and nuanced, e of the most beloved TV characters of all time. Sadly, Jean Stapleton passed away on May 31, 2013, at the age of 90. Her portrayal of Edith will always be remembered as one of the finest performances in television history. After All in the Family, Stapleton continued to work in theater and television , with roles in The Torkelsons and Falling in Love. Her legacy as one of TV’s most iconic characters is solidified. 6. Carroll O’Connor (Archie Bunker) The Man Behind the Iconic Archie Bunker Carroll O’Connor’s portrayal of Archie Bunker is one of the most iconic performances in television history. Archie was a loud, opinionated, and often prejudiced character, but O’Connor’s nuanced performance revealed the complexities beneath the surface. He made Archie both a figure of ridicule and a source of sympathy, which was a remarkable achievement for any actor. Carroll O’Connor passed away in 2001, but his influence on television continues to be felt. His portrayal of Archie Bunker paved the way for future sitcoms to tackle serious issues with humor, and his legacy lives on in the characters he brought to life.
