First time reacting to Archie Bunker moments from 'All in the Family'

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[@wanderlust62]

I am a black woman who grew up watching All in the Family and it was a given it was outrageous, laugh until you cry. As I grew older, I found it to be like Swift's literature, a hit on prejudice, saying out loud what so many whispered behind backs and closed doors. O'Connor was a civil rights marcher... amazing human being who went on to great TV series. The end of the series, after Edith passes, the episodes with the child they fostered and his gaining custody was beyond touching...

[@Mikey-Plays-Bass]

Came to the comments to make sure that the real genius of the show wasn't missed. Then I read your comment and at the end, my eye leaked. Nuance it seems, is a lost art. Every show that we had as children shaped us into thicker skinned, broad minded people that (in my opinion) relate more on a personal level than most other generations. (Completely off topic) Your handle just reminded me of this great woman that breezed through town a while back.

[@theresataylor9107]

Came to say almost the same thing. it was a show and caroll O'Conner said it best kzbin.info/www/bejne/gIS3daiMlL2Kpdk

[@daleplant5275]

I saw this show as a kid and found Archie to be a very complex and nuanced character. I realized his beliefs were based on how he was raised but when it came down to it he was a good guy. The episode where he was talking about the best worker on the docks and when he talked about the best soldier in his unit then said the only problem with them was they were black. I saw that he had these generalizations about people but it was different when he knew them personally. This show unfortunately would not be made today because there is no nuance anymore.

[@anncain2432]

All In The Family & The Jefferson's shed much needed light on the issues you just touched on brilliantly. I know our white family of 5 not only loved the shows but did talk a bit about on issues the writers you referenced. The shows were good for society as well as fabulous entertainment. Archie & Jefferson were always going at it and Meathead brought up social issues of the day.

[@anncain2432]

Truly great entertainment that brought diverse folks together!

[@vincentpruiett1592]

We, as a black family, loved and appreciated Archie Bunker. That character unapologetically spoke volumes about what was actually going on back then. Carroll O'Connor, the man, actually fought against this type of thinking in real life. He was awesome!

[@jamilasalaam]

Indeed we was a good man!!! This is such a classic for me, watched reruns as a little girl & now still watch with my pops !! We always laugh how a show like this wouldn’t fly today ! Shame

[@1400IntruderVS]

I believe the show was intended to help people find humor in how persons perceive eachother. It taught us to laugh at eachother and ourselves ,as well offered dipictions of how persons may be handicapped by their own ignorance but it does necessarily mean they are terrible persons.

[@Iva.the.Southern.Appalachian]

SO many people don't realize he portrayed that character the way the did to show people their ignorance on many topics. Thank you so much!!

[@forfun2920]

As ignorant as Archie was once he got to know the person no matter the skin colour or religion or race he would help in his I can't stand it type of way. These types of shows are needed imo. The Neighborhood touches on it and it's great. I'm happy to hear your family enjoyed All in the Family. I don't know why we can't all get along! Have a good one! I'm off to put some Mayo on my sandwich and with an Irish background I'll probably have a drink! 😜

[@4242oscar]

The Show was going to be canceled until a famous actor stepped in and said the show was important to show bigotry and how we have to laugh at it. That actor was on the show for his support. He even kissed Archie Bunker. The great Sammy Davis Jr.!!

[@wetspotswimwear1199]

You see, back then, and into the '80's, we made fun of each other and we ALL laughed with each other

[@kbel210]

Exactly!!

[@loggie3429]

And laughed AT the ignorant Archie.

[@bindywuertenberg6644]

Back then people had thicker skins, and understood there were people like this in the world. It was considered freedom of speech, and this show basically was about showing a Family man who was strongly prejudiced, but unapologetic and unfazed by what others thoughts. Even when it horrified his family and friends. It was the realization that everyone has a right to their opinion, whether it was considered right or wrong. And therefore you either dealt with it, or you didn’t. No one went around crying and saying I take offense to whatever unless they had a personal issue with something said. Period. In which case, the person with the issue took it up with the offender. Today, they’ve taken away freedom of speech because it makes people uncomfortable. Rather than people learning to have a thicker skin, and learning to work it out. Archie definitely was ridiculous in many ways, which made him hilarious. And back then, almost everyone knew this and shrugged his coarseness off. But today, you have too many whiners who don’t get the point…, there is always going to be somebody like Archie Bunker…., YOU HAVE TO LEARN TO IGNORE, shrug off, and grow a thicker skin, because YOU CANNOT CHANGE A PERSON LIKE ARCHIE.

[@marywoodard4241]

Yup, best statement on here.👍

[@kellycarlson9303]

We were not " woke" enough to be offended at everything !

[@nicknickerson2124]

It was a good time to be alive as a kid. Bunker, Jefferson and the Sanfords!

[@jeffb5785]

Yes, The Jefferson's eventually became a hit show, and Sanford and Son was Red Fox who was like a Black Archie Bunker.

[@willjohnson8446]

… and Chico and the Man.

[@donnaarrington4631]

Omg!!! I miss this raw comedy,,, there were always good messages in the end,, what happened to us??

[@user-lc7zt6lt7o]

I loved all those shows...👍

[@janicespencer6014]

Don't forget good times

[@mildredpierce4506]

I can tell you as a black person who grew up in the 70s, we loved all in the family.

[@les4767]

And I can tell you as a white person who grew up in the 70's, we loved Sanford and Son.

[@floorticket]

@@les4767 And as a white boy growing up in Oakland we too loved Sanford and Son, along with Room 222, Welcome Back Kotter, What's Happening, Jeffersons and Good Times.

[@phen277]

@@floorticket I never missed an episode of any of those, especially Good Times. That one resonated with me.

[@roevega9902]

1971..Sunday night tv

[@3DJapan]

​@@les4767Sanford and Son but even more so The Jeffersons. Which was a spin-off of this show.

[@frankm2022]

61 year old black woman here! I miss the days when everyone wasn't triggered by everything and we all laughed together. Pretty sure my family and I watched this show (every season) and The Jeffersons (spin-off) at least 2 times from 1st show to last! Jefferson was the black version of Bunker😂😊❤

[@luvsmusic124]

Amen!

[@mattsvids0120]

The sad thing is that I would say at least 95% of POCs who are offended are actually middle-aged white women named Karen who have nothing better to do than cause problems!

[@marcjolin8335]

Yes Archie was countered by George. It was real and hilarious (both shows) and sometimes offensive but it didn't cause riots in the streets because people had thicker skin back then; and if your were watching back then and still kicking today your not triggered as much because you know it means nothing.

[@naomidoner9803]

56 white woman here... I can play the theme song to all in the family on a piano 🎹 BUT well we're moving on up, to the east side 🎶🎵 To a Deluxe apartment in the Sky Moving on up to the east side, We finally got our piece of the pie ... is lyrics ingrained on my soul... lol my daddy looked like Mr Jefferson to me ... but white lol...

[@deniece0821]

I'm a kid raised on All in the Family and The Jeffersons. My dad and I met Sherman Hemsley back in 1985. My dad was doing a business seminar at a Radisson Hotel and took me with him since it was Summer. He came back from his meetings and we had lunch in the hotel's restaurant at about 2pm on a Wednesday. In other words, it was dead as hell. I spotted Mr. Hemsley and was star struck. My dad told me to leave him alone and let him enjoy his meal in peace. Well, it just so happened that Mr. Hemsley had just gotten there, too. He noticed me looking at him, smiled and said "Hello." My dad said I could ask him for an autograph since he basically initiated the conversation. It's a long story but he ended up having lunch with us and spent about 1.5 hours just talking with us. To this day he is THE nicest celeb I've ever met! He gave me advice on my career dreams, etc. We met Mr. Hemsley just as _The Jeffersons_ had been cancelled and he had just signed on to do the sitcom _Amen,_ which he was also brilliant in! It's so funny, Carroll O'Connor played racist and bigoted Archie. Sherman Hemsley played racist and prejudice against mixed couples George. Both men were gentlemen who were polar opposites of their characters. To me, that just goes to show what great actors they were.

[@rondafulfer5]

The first time racism was called out on national TV. Groundbreaking.

[@richardbero790]

Norman Lear right?

[@carn41-rt2ji]

He was ground breaking. Commenter is right. This character couldn’t be further from the truth. He was the total opposite of a racist. To watch him now, it’s amazing what could be said on tv then.

[@carn41-rt2ji]

I know his character was just that. A character but it hurts my heart to hear his words.

[@carn41-rt2ji]

For the young people, Carroll O’Conner was in a tv show after All in the Family called In the Heat of the Night where he married a black woman. He brought conversation to all that wrong with this country.

[@carn41-rt2ji]

Yes. A blanket of racism is still racism

[@Tetdyeanya-ru5zk]

Oh how we laughed! We laughed when George Jefferson called us honkey too.

[@abdeton1899]

In real life Carrol was the exact opposite, even marched for civil rights! He was a great actor! This show actually helped race relations by illuminating the ignorance and fear to an absurd level. No one wanted to be like this, that I knew!

[@TwistedDoll09]

And the way he fought to change California laws against drug dealers after his son's death was extraordinarily admirable & brave!

[@garymonaghan7196]

I agree

[@joec6647]

bull MOST honkies are like this

[@carladavis1473]

I was thinking they should bring this show back. I think it would help race relations once again.

[@abdeton1899]

@@carladavis1473 It probably would in the long run, but everyone would be cancelled first lol!

[@yvonnetruelove2270]

Archie Bunker and All in the Family single handedly made my grandfather realize he was a bigot. He became a completely different person and saw the world and the people in it in a new light due to this show. ❤🎉

[@ryanagee3038]

Same here I watched my grandpa snicker and then hang his head in shame... And then laugh again.

[@wewemcrhyne]

That is so extraordinary!!! It’s exactly the intent!

[@carolbabb7875]

It was the whole point of this show. Back then and earlier people wouldn't dare to speak of the issues brought up. To anyone. My father changed over time too. This show and a few others did a lot of good. All races couldn't wait for Sunday night.

[@ConnieDuval]

Wow I'm so happy to hear that it made a difference. I was shocked to learn that some people watched and agreed with Archie

[@aliseegenuine6414]

​@@ConnieDuvalPoor Connie, there were a lot who did! A lot more than a few! They weren't necessarily bad ppl, they projected living a different lifestyle & different cultures. Yet the cultures were a lot alike. That's what makes our USA great! The variety of ppl. What causes the problems, today, is ppl being so thin-skinned & "offended"! FREEDOM OF SPEECH APPLIES TO ALL, NOT JUST THE RICH & FAMOUS1 And Freedom of Speech should be recognized by all! Can't be some & none! Has to be all or none

[@belindagriffin5868]

We didn't have a cancel culture attitude we had a lets talk and let you expose your own bigotry we never believed in shutting people up, we used their own ignorance to show everyone else how backward it was, Archie bunker was at a time when our country was going thru big changes and this show helped to do it.

[@sallyperrie3007]

Well said

[@francescosilvestri6709]

All in the Family is a classic sit-com. It was meant to poke fun at everyone of every background. The show also proudly displayed many important societal issues.

[@RowdyYates007YNWA]

As a 53 year old who’s parent watched this show, people didn’t take themselves seriously back in the day, we weren’t offended…we had a sense of humor and understood that this was humor…better times back then

[@cantstopcooking929]

True political satire

[@barz2bricks1]

So well said

[@frodobaggins7252]

I'm 54 and know exactly what you mean. People are way too thin skinned these days and have lost their sense of humor.

[@maribelplaza1749]

I agree!

[@retromom5421]

I am still calling Rob Reiner "Meathead". He is still a pompous brat.

[@Mrcool19771]

I grew up watching archie. I'm a 63 year old black man. We loved his show . Archie was never considered offensive. Because he didn't know any better . He actually had a good heart and in time he learned.

[@dmsampson]

Absolutely, I agree.

[@estellecourt9177]

Edith still guides me 45 years into marriage.

[@annemariemcnamara8756]

You are soo right he never was hateful, but what people now don’t get that Archie also grew up probably in the 20s an 30s where there was a mindset they didn’t know differently. Archie was himself an him saying what he did wasn’t intentionally offensive, he believed what he said an never apologized. This show was one of the best because people were uncensored unlike today where you get cancelled if you have your own opinion

[@chrisold97]

@@annemariemcnamara8756back then you could use “he didn’t know any better” as an excuse- but it’s been over 40 years now…

[@HR-zj3eo]

One of his best scenes, was when he stood up to the klan.

[@janaiello722]

The Jeffersons was hysterical too

[@kthx1138]

Indeed. George was the black Archie Bunker, always calling white next door neighbor Tom Willis married to a black woman "honkey".

[@xamorus]

I used to lay at the foot of my moms bed and watch her shows with her at bedtime: All in the Family, Carol Burnett, The Jeffersons. I love these shows, and although no one should not put up with disrespect, these shows taught me not to take too much offense when someone's views doesn't line up with mine.

[@LPike-kh4dt]

You guys are so young! You don’t get that this was a laugh at our own bigotries! Genius! Perfect timing in the 70’s

[@josepharsenault1083]

I’m 31, and grew up watching these shows as syndicated reruns on the retro channels. I always understood that it was all humour, but also understood that it was a product of its time. I still watch all kinds of programs from back then. Red Skelton, Johnny Carson, Quincy M.E., etc., Call me old fashioned, but aside from the occasional diamond in the rough, they just don’t make them like they used to. There are some of us out there that still get it, even if it was well after our time.

[@cuppacoffee75]

Sanford and Son n The Jefferson's were from the same producers I think. So they gave the point of views from every family. Good shows. In real life he wasn't like that but he did bring attention to the way ALOT of people thought at the time and the way he brought the Conner's and Jefferson families together at the end was great.

[@powelll]

When poor Europeans came through Ellis Island they weren't considered as white, initially. The whitening of America ?

[@travishortman5473]

Some laughed for different reasons. Some laughed at the bigotry, while others laughed with it.

[@gralmar]

I'm Native American and grew up watching All In The Family. LOVED IT! "Meat-head" was played by ROB Reiner, not Carl. Carl was his dad. Carroll O'Connor, who played Archie Bunker once stated that the show didn't make fun of races. It made fun of RACISTS. He also walked off the set until the producers gave his costars a raise, more on par with his pay. The man was incredibly talented and good, and nothing like his TV character.

[@naomidoner9803]

Did you watch the Jeffersons too... GEORGE and AR chie are very much alike

[@karenalves8100]

All in the Family that our whole family watched. I'm a 70 year old Black American woman and this show SHOWCASED the Insidious, Deprecating, Racial Construct of the US during that time. Archie represented the White Anglo Saxon Racist who hated every culture that was Marginalized that were not like Him! Believe it or not, many 'so-called' WHITE people of TODAYS World, were NOT considered WHITE because of their SocioEconomic Status in this 'Land of the Free'! Greeks, Italians, Hispanics, Asians, Native/ Indigenous People, South Americans, Blacks (American born and those of Africa) and the LIST goes on and on. This changed as a function of including MORE people into the WHITE RACE as a Form of DOMINANCE! For Goodness Sake, read up on the TRUE/REAL US history and Wake Up and Smell the Coffee! Black Americans loved to watch this show because it Shone a Very Bright Light on the Systemic Racism INHERENT in this country for Hundreds of Years! Archie represented ALL OF THAT while being a STRONG Supporter of the US GOVERNMENT/POLICIES never realizing that Segregation was not just for the Disenfranchised and Marginal cultures when it came down to the RICH keeping the RICHES of this country with those powers that STILL rule OVER ALL OF US unless you are included in that Class of people who represent a mere 1 to 3 PERCENT of the Population. These are ongoing issues and if you choose NOT to Understand the Sins of the Past, you are Destined to see them REPEATED AGAIN AND AGAIN in the FUTURE. Come on Younger Generations! Start reading OUR history and Garner an UNDERSTANDING that is right in Front of Your Nose! The More Things CHANGE, the More they STAY THE SAME. Life didn't Begin 20, 30 or even 40 years ago that you consider to be 'Back in the OLD DAYS', as if we were all a Blithering mass of Ignorant People. We were a Very Enlightened Generation of US Citizens who saw through the SMOKE and MIRRORS of the Status Quo on ALL THINGS that kept ANY and EVERY marginalized and discriminated against groups of people, races and cultures BEHIND in EVERYTHING INTENTIONALLY! Educationally, Socio- Economically and Racially! I thought you all were WOKE! Doesn't read that way to me! RESEARCH & LEARN THE TRUTH! For REAL, For REAL!

[@Albertanator]

@@karenalves8100 Blah blah blah....

[@bobbillings]

All in the family was watched by 35-40 million households every week in the 70's. It was the first TV show to hold the number 1 spot in ratings for 5 consecutive seasons. It brought attention to topics no other sitcom in history had ever done besides the British television show "Till death do us part" which all in the family was based on. I am happy and amazed to see you guys watch it with maturity and laughter, which is it's sole intent with the writing as well as to bring awareness to topics that was spoken in the confines of the home regarding racial attitudes and other social issues back then. There was a time in this country where white, black, brown, and yellow were not all lumped together. People who came to this country settled in areas of cities according to their ethnicity which was very common which is why you hear "Italian, Krout, Irish, Polish, Russian. Japanese, Chinese, Puerto Rican, Mexican, etc " and many more spoken in this show. And in some households, in every single race and background in this country, there was bigotry and stereotypes against others and no race whatsoever was innocent. I grew up watching this and this show made a lot of people realize there was more pettiness than fact in sterotypes and made us think deeper and communicate with each other. In todays times, this show would have been cancelled immediately instead of teach people how wrong the stereotypes were which we learned from watching this as how many times was Archie proven wrong, nearly every episode. That is one of two things this country has completely lost. It's ability to communicate with one another, and it's ability to compromise with one another. Both sides of the political spectrum need to compromise to get things done. One side can't always have everything it wants. Now days, people want all their way or it's a stalemate and communication is cut off and and hatred begins. While we have taken a great step forward in many things, we have also taken a step backward in others.

[@cme1027]

Im a 56 year old white woman and Watching you two young men watching this and the genuine questions and surprised reactions to this prime time 70s tv show is absolutely fascinating. Im so glad ive stumbled upon your channel.

[@richardhussey8388]

All in the family was the South Park of the 70’s. Probably the best sitcom ever produced.

[@corm1000]

It was along with taxi, and Sanford and son.

[@Holly-zp5fu]

You lads have not received much history. Don't schools teach history? I remember when Italians,, irish, Jewish people, only married their own. Protestants did not routinely Marry Catholics.

[@briancleveland6115]

​@@corm1000And it's Always sunny in Philadelphia

[@hillbillypunkgirl]

I read an interview with Trey Parker and Matt Stone where they directly credited All in the Family,that South Park grew out of a belief that Archie Bunker could never get away with saying the things he did today unless he was a 10 year old kid

[@Holly-zp5fu]

@@hillbillypunkgirl I That is very interesting information. It certainly seems true. Thank you, I love the intricacies of life. Everything old is New Again.

[@annaswanson176]

George Jefferson made white jokes also. It was a great time when we all could laugh together and get along! I miss those days!

[@meggo329]

Yes true but it was also to point out that both sides have rascism.

[@dinahbrown902]

George was a black Archie. Hilarious

[@zarahwilson3717]

AMEN I just made this comment

[@hollyegee2199]

Agreed….no sense of humor these days. Just litigation.

[@angiemynia8004]

I miss how we laughed and loved!

[@jeffb5785]

I was a teenager in the 70's and a big fan of Archie Bunker, it was a sitcom (situation comedy) I took it as kind of a mix of stereotype and sarcastic comedy. He was meant to be a loveable jerk, and Rob Reiner was his SJW politically correct son in law who he called Pollock, Meathead, and dead from the neck up, and the real Rob Reiner is truly all of those things today. They were two extreme characters, and neither was good but it was COMEDY, not to be taken seriously. The difference is that Mike (Rob Reiner) is the character he played.

[@tomsdotter3228]

Hardly.

[@jeffb5785]

@@tomsdotter3228 Hardly? How so?

[@alienprepper5918]

"How is he allowed to say this on tv?". We used to have freedom of speech kiddo.

[@albertapeet]

This show was on the air when people had a sense of humour and were still able to laugh at themselves

[@charmcrackermusic4250]

Yep and the Jefferson came out of that and that’s good too

[@charmcrackermusic4250]

You guys have to remember this is a comedy show. We are much further from racism these days

[@charmcrackermusic4250]

You guys got all the funny one crushed my Grandma and Grampa watch this when I was a kid

[@charmcrackermusic4250]

The word Queer was back then

[@charmcrackermusic4250]

Bad

[@nicknickerson2124]

The Jefferson’s and Sanford and son were just as hilarious. The 70’s and 80’s were a time to be alive. Nobody got so offended.

[@patb7843]

I also liked "Good Times".

[@sherryowens8251]

And the Jeffersons

[@lalau7761]

Exactly.

[@lilmama4426]

I LOVED all of them!🤩

[@shirleymcdonald7008]

"All in the Family" was making fun of ARCHIE BUNKER....it was showing how illiterate HE was, as he was trying to say negative things about others.

[@nickcarnevalino7462]

the magic of these shows is that they did it for a live audience - that's what it's so impactful.

[@maryharlow420]

Yeah, we watched and we heard and more importantly, we laughed. Im a 66, and growing up, we had this look at life, that all of us could laugh together. And we did.

[@deborahrandolph3212]

There weren't snowflakes & NOBODY got offended. We all just laughed! Comedy was alive & well & we could take a joke!

[@KristenAnnDickinson]

Yes!

[@DetroitRockCityMusic]

They don't know the word bigot

[@kyfarm]

These kids should do a show on The Jeffersons. Look at things from the opposite point of view.

[@dragonvoiceinterview6038]

There weren't any charcoals and nobody got offended

[@mightymarsha]

Exactly Black people were strong in their identity… they weren’t made to believe they’re victims in every thing in life… they were strong - smart and worked together… (many still are and do) now you have whole bloodlines dying because they’re shooting each other on the streets… so many live and potential gone

[@georgepirie2453]

I can't believe that these guys watched all of this and didn't understand that the show is purposely written to be ironic. That's why it's so funny. The character is an actor saying what the writers have written. He's not racist, the character is. That's the role. One of the best actors, and one of the best shows, ever.

[@jlfliberty]

Good point, today's younger as programmed to suppress speech and as a result think everything they see is real.

[@karencahill4798]

People were smarter back then.😂

[@darinsanchez4123]

Exactly! It was sarcasm to a certain extent, and a way to highlight issues.

[@laurachatfield4142]

Archie Bunker was a white protestant male, who thinks that because he was born in America, that automatically makes him a Christian but without any real conviction about his faith or relationship with God and Jesus. I always thought he was Irish.

[@pawsnclawsOG]

Yes, he went on to play in "The Heat of the Night" with a strong black cast. I guess he didn't want to be typecast as a racist. Can't blame him. Caroll O'Connor was an amazing actor.

[@pattiaustin1808]

Guys, guys. It’s so fascinating to see your reactions to what was a really significant sit-com in the 70s. Please get one thing: Norman Lear was not celebrating bigotry - he was exposing it. You oughta check out another of his sit-coms, Maude, and how it talked about abortion, among other topics.

[@nancyjenzano3686]

I hope you understand that the whole intention of this show was to show everyone just how ridiculous bigotry was.. & it really worked for the most part.. this show was absolutely brilliant & Carrol Oconner was amazing portraying Archie Bunker.. I was born in ‘64 so I grew up with all of this, not necessarily in my home because my parents didn’t say those words but it was definitely all around me. I lived in a poor white neighborhood right next to a poor black neighborhood & they really weren’t allowed to come into our neighborhood. You have to understand that Rosa Parks demanding to be treated equally literally just happed in 1955.. segregation was still not fully accepted & most white people I knew spoke with built in racism but the respectful ones started using the word colored because that’s what they were told was now appropriate. I sad to see racism still exist today, in a whole different way but it still exists.. I’ll be 60 this year & I really thought all of that would be behind us by now.. but I see that it is mostly intentional by our govt to keep us divided so they can keep screwing us all over & over. Anyway.. be kind to each other.. we’re all in this together.

[@evgenia1960]

They made fun of everybody in the 70’s. No one got offended. This show was the first to address these issues. They did it with humor and held up the mirror we could all look at ourselves in.

[@Robert08010]

You said a MOUTH FULL!!!

[@noreenmcgovern1023]

I just wrote that as well. Made us thick skinned... wouldn't change it for the world

[@carlaburks5855]

I am a 62 year old African American man. What made Archie so interesting is that he dared to say what people in the earlier decades dare not say in open and mixed company back in the day. Network television did not allow that type of character to be displayed in earlier shows such as Father Knows Best, The Donna Reed Show, Leave It to Beaver, and other such shows. I thought it was great to see All in the Family break the barriers and boldly speak that thought but never spoken. Very cutting edge. I loved it ...

[@mattsvids0120]

One thing that made Archie really really interesting was that the guy who played Archie (Carol O'Connor) was actually the complete opposite of Archie in real life.

[@Kcinstc]

Well said

[@vampyre4me]

Sometimes I think we were actually closer to achieving equality back in the 70's than we are today. Political correctness just took us back to "mum's the word", fake smiles and all the distrust between people. It's sad

[@mattsvids0120]

@@vampyre4me "political correctness" is used as a (dirty word) by those who don't believe that it is right for members of the LGBTQ+ community, drag queens, people of color or women should have equal rights to: straight Rich white Christian cis "men"!!!

[@user-vd5wp4oy8e]

It was ALL Norman Lear. The humor, irony & ridiculousness of racists back then (and right now too, if I think about it). O'Connor *was* the opposite of AB in real life, as Matt wrote. We never missed AITF on Sun. nights back then. The ratings were thru the roof! It was a groundbreaking show as Carla says. We could joke about race & it wasn't an off-limits or appropriating topic then. Lear was highlighting the ignorance & stupidity of racists in AB.

[@athenagriego4561]

Yo the way he delivered his lines is just brilliant and the writers wow! Just freaken brilliant !

[@paulad.4578]

I grew up in the 1970s and remember watching 'All In The Family' each week as the series came out. Our family found the series entertaining and funny. There was something about this series that allowed very difficult topics, like racism to be discussed without reverting to mean-spirited dialogues. Everyone could tell that Archie Bunker was a blow-hard with a limited viewpoint of the world. We didn't take him seriously and the show seemed to be a pressure valve on much of what was going on at the time. The writing was obviously over the top and it was presented in a way that people could laugh at the ignorance, rather than taking it to heart. One of my favorite scenes was when Archie received a fortune cookie after eating Chinese. The cookie summed up his character to a T. It said, "Big winds blow from empty caves." That was definitely Archie Bunker. I just wish we could discuss various difficult topics a little more openly these days, without offending people or making people feel the need to run toward safe spaces.

[@donnyjanast7093]

We weren't stupid viewers. We were in on the joke. We all knew someone like Archie, but times were changing and shows like this helped start the conversation

[@RLucas3000]

We weren’t stupid BACK THEN. Now the MAGA crowd thinks of Archie as a hero.

[@mikereid4653]

​@@RLucas3000grow the hell up You're labeling a whole group of people and you don't even recognize that

[@Lollylobacres]

If only. I lived with Archie. When you are that close to someone like him, you are less than Edith. You just endure Archie and pray one day to be free of him.

[@mike02454]

@@RLucas3000 only if you watch the main stream media. Go out into the real world and you'll see differently. Your bigotry is as bad as Archie's... let's hope you can grow.

[@BarbButler]

Yes!!!!!!!!!

[@jjmummert]

This show broke barriers and woke people up to our issues.

[@kathleenhazy6126]

And they spoke about those issues through comedy, which is definitely lost on these two.

[@ginav8851]

100%.

[@briancleveland6115]

​@@kathleenhazy6126Exactly 💯 they are just virtue signaling.

[@USCTrojan2013]

The reason none of this is possible is NOT just due to “political correctness” but we have lost the ability to say, “let’s agree to disagree.” We also had racists Nixon & Reagan in the WH… it was a DIFFERENT time… open & out for all to see…

[@USCTrojan2013]

Interesting that he brought up the bigotry regarding Italians, Greeks & Polish citizens… so it’s like the Family Guy of the 70’s.. no demographic was safe then.. anymore than with Seth’s Family Guy.. everyone is fair game.

[@kisholson5391]

Archie represents ,imited education, "a blue collar worker" also he grew up post WW2 & WW1. Conflicts thru centuries. The white privileged were in authority. My grandparents from Ireland & Norway had to stay on Ellis Island, a holding camp before entering. There has been prejudice for millennium. I loved this show , it's parody. My grandfather was just like Archie, I was born in 1952, 5 yrs post WW2 , lived thru Korean & Vietman wars. I dated a jew, Native American & an Italian. My Irish grandfather threw a fit but went apoplectic when I brought my black college to a family gathering he disowned me, Archie's education and social status demonstrates realities of what America truly was. The 1960s broke thru many barriers but escalated the discrimination between wealthy, upper, midd.e class those hanging on to middle class status known as lower, then just the poor and groups that didn't fit whatever city neighborhoods, cul-de-sac, etc. I lived out in a country setting in Pennsylvania , lived in an old farmhouse recorded as part of the underground railroad. Not too much racism. But as a history buff it start3d w British rule of this young country a melting pot of humanity, The show finally brought it all and demonstrated the ridiculous, but I already had an Archie in my family....this show made me laugh so so much. As u said ud never see this today, now there's laws for the law. I grew up in best Era, oh yeah. Best regards from a 1973 Ole lady

[@armentajewel4165]

GenX in the house! I was raised on this show. Did you know Archie and Edith's chairs are in the Smithsonian? This wasn't just a tv show. It was a cultural phenomenon. Archie was a WASP: White Anglo Saxon Protestant. Irish and Italians were Catholic. Definitely not considered the same ethnic groups. I loved when you noticed that he had a certain charm. He was so many of our fathers. We loved him, but hated his views. It was complex. Over time you see his views challenged and he slowly and ever so slightly changed. It was beautiful and hopeful. Legendary show ❤

[@jacquieflint6777]

I was in my 20s when this show aired. The entire point of the show was to highlight how ridiculous racism and prejudice are. Humor is a great tool for teaching serious issues.

[@angelatarantini9184]

You young men need to realize that in the 70's, we had our social issues while they were in their peak. We needed the different sitcoms we had so that we could laugh our way through it. This generation should try it.

[@marilynmay4095]

We were a hell of alot freer back thin,not so much now,you all have to watch The Jeffersons and Good Times.😂

[@bryanmace7812]

People today are too busy staring at their phones, if it's not TikTok or about something being given to them. Then it's not important.

[@rudylittlewolf]

Stealing this quote!!! Beautiful!

[@amysjusticeleague3011]

Yeah sometime wonder if these younger people could have ever made it in those times they're too thin skinned sorry but true

[@rudylittlewolf]

@@amysjusticeleague3011 Don't be sorry. You speak facts.

[@mikeholman8463]

Archie Bunker is one of the greatest if not THE greatest satirical character comedians of all time. Which in turn, and with a fantastic cast makes All in the family one of if not the greatest sitcom of all time to date. (But if you want to go by ratings then it's absolutely one of if not the greatest sitcom of all time. Keeping in mind the population from then until now).

[@gregruland1934]

Old effer grew up watching the Bunkers -Your reaction to Archie's racism is precisely the point. The whole country was outraged by what he was saying, but it was being said by people then in private and these things continue to be said in private among Archie types. Archie was mocked endlessly for his racism and ignorance, but over the years, he exposes his humanity again and again and shows how he is trapped in his beliefs. I loved this show, his relationship to his wife and daughter, and son-in-law, and I especially love your discussion of these matters. Also, Carol O'Connor was a famous liberal during his lifetime.

[@shariwasson6514]

Remember guys, he's an actor. They were trying to educate people. The character Archie Bunker was played by the great Carrol OConner. This man brought all the Archie's in America to our living rooms once a week. Everyone knew their own personal Archie. Whether it was a coworker, neighbor or relative. Mikes character was there to call him out on all his bigotry. I'm so glad u guys are watching this! It's a delight to listen to your opinions, surprise and reactions to good ole Archie. You really need to watch the episode with Sammy Davis Jr😂

[@pennyfraney8863]

Yes….the Sammy Davis Jr episode was classic!!

[@911believer6]

Legendary, I saw it when it first came on , I remember my mom was like good for you, Sammy. lol, she also loved the rat pack

[@reproverebukeexhortevangel2131]

You guys are so young. A lot of people in his generation were prejudice out of ignorance. However, by the 80's, we were living in mixed neighborhoods, had friends of every ethnicity and didn't care about the color of someone's skin. It was the character of the person that mattered. Mixed marriages, mixed churches, mixed group of friends. No one even cared. Then the government and the media started to put a wedge between us again. And here we are having some of the same issues we had in the 60's and 70's. This show helped show people how ignorant prejudice is. And it did it with laughter.

[@laurawirtjes7225]

EXACTLY! All the progress we made has ALL been undone and destroyed our country!

[@ronnieingle6816]

Gosh YOU are so spot on, thank you 10:04

[@seesea-sv3xw]

If you recall the Jefferson's lived next store until their business took off, and George Jefferson was just like Archie, but from the black side of it. People weren't thin skinned like today, they recognized their prejudices and still got along. No one was demonized or "oppressed" at least not like in the ways they push today.

[@leannechristianson5218]

💯

[@kellyjoe1110]

💯 💯 💯

[@candyharding8361]

Good times! We need these shows to come back again each character was sweet as much as sour ❤❤❤❤❤

[@judester9482]

I grew up watching All In The Family. So much laughter back then. Nobody got offended 😂

[@prayinggrandpa2263]

You have to see that back in the 70’s we were able to laugh at things. Everyone was not offended at everything, we just enjoyed a good laugh!

[@patmcgovern2914]

You do realize that people laughed at Archie, not with him, right?

[@romans52345-cy3tq]

I think it was a combination of both

[@johnhuddleston8647]

Thank you;))

[@mikec.8556]

Bunker made great points

[@mikec.8556]

You guys don’t get it . He was here before you

[@user-yo9td7sx8m]

It can't be overstated how groundbreaking this show was. Nobody had heard these subjects discussed openly before. Amazing mix of comedy and drama. Homosexuality, mixed marriages, racism, sexism, sex, abortion and miscarriage. Just a few of the topics covered in the shows 9 year run. The top show of the 70’s and one of the most important ever to air.

[@michellerichardson3366]

And assault. Remember the episode with the guy that broke in with Edith..

[@margaretkiser6305]

If you slap someone, it's assault. Edith was raped. It was near the end of my tweenaged time watching the show. I don't know if it was the end for all viewers or just my parents quitting our family's viewing of it.

[@michellerichardson3366]

@margaretkiser6305 .. She was not rapped. He was the rapist but she was able to keep it from happening. Doesn't make it any less traumatizing....Please look up the episode.

[@laurieanncox7844]

​@margaretkiser6305 she beat him off with a cake she was baking.

[@margaretkiser6305]

@@michellerichardson3366 thank you for clarifying. 😊

[@XOXSUSIEQXOX]

The Archie Bunker character was born nearly 100 years ago!

[@RoyaltyHigh613]

Genius!!!! Filmed in front of a live audience most likely too!!!! THIS is true acting. 🙏🏻⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🙏🏻

[@willjohnson8446]

The problem with these types of videos edited together is that they focus on the sensationalism of the show and don’t show how each episode was resolved. They were amazing and revolutionary. They deserve to be rewatched in whole.

[@patticrichton1135]

TRUE!!

[@kiranolan7104]

I don't know if there's a channel that does reactions to All in the Family. I doubt it, but there should be.

[@kyfarm]

@@kiranolan7104 I would rather just rewatch the show if it were on anywhere, without the reactions.

[@BlainsTube]

Very true. All In The Family was made up of far more than one liners. I remember some very poignant and enlightening episodes. My suggestion would be to watch full episodes, then comment.

[@jeremyfisher9102]

Exactly. The whole purpose of All In The Family was to laugh at the bigot Archie and use him as a backboard that Gloria and Mike bounced their liberal ideas off of. The purpose of the show was to make people think, and re-evaluate their point of view.

[@johnbarone8948]

I don't care who you are or what you are Archie in my opinion was the funniest TV character of all time. He picked on everybody, no exceptions.

[@t.s.9656]

He was funny, but I think Al Bundy and Fred Sanford edge him out.

[@johnbarone8948]

@@t.s.9656 no way

[@keith1r]

@@t.s.9656not Bundy

[@susanelmer1550]

The one young man needs to lighten. Not just the white people made racist comments. I'm almost 75 and lived through all this. Young kids today are so protected. He needs to watch some of the old black comedy shows also. It's called life. They all had their racist comments too but we all loved those shows and loved them. I couldn't finish watching this. The young man's reactions were too sensitive for me 😂😂

[@ShenValleyPicker]

Archie was meant to be an ignorant but lovable bigot. He was often the butt of the jokes but was absolutely harmless. He just didn’t know any better. In fact there’s an episode where Lionel Jefferson tells Michael just that. “Archie don’t know any better.” Carrol O’Conner is the one of the greatest character actors of the last 100 years. The man was brilliant.

[@jaimejohnson4575]

We loved all of the family. It’s when you could joke around and tease people in a joking manner and nobody got offended. Those were great times.

[@chestnut1279]

no, it's when racism and sexism were not considered to be truely offensive, which they are

[@750count]

So, what was the derogatory stereotype name that you didn't mind being called?

[@Joey-ni9ce]

A little bit of unknown knowledge, In real life, Archie was a very heart field. Man just playing a role, his wife was more of the Sirius type.

[@bradentripp8141]

​@chestnut1279 except achie wasn't the hero..he was the buffoon. The entire point was to show how ridiculous he was in his outdated beliefs and views. Then they added in George Jefferson..who was the exact same person from a different perspective. Their rivalry was one of the greatest ever.

[@grandpascottshodgepodge9318]

It was shows like this that held a mirror up to society and showed us that racism and homophobia are based on ignorance and that we SHOULD be offended by them.

[@jimmymapes3411]

This show actually changed society for the better. People saw the ridiculousness of Archie's prejudice. Over the years as the show wen on Archie evolved and people came to love him.

[@surfwriter8461]

I wasn't a regular viewer, considering the show a bit too repetitive and stagey. But I'd like to know how you think Archie "evolved". What specific changes occurred that I might have been unaware of?

[@Kelle0284]

@@surfwriter8461 I was a regular viewer. Sometimes I could barely wait until commercial breaks before I had to go running to the bathroom.

[@lizzabbott]

I’m 64 and grew up watching Archie. His character was a caricature . I never heard any of these terms growing up .

[@Liesandmanipulations]

Archie was portrayed as a WASP(white Anglo Saxon protestant).Also he was portrayed as a ww2 veteran who had a hard time adjusting to the changing times.Things changed very quickly in the 60s and 70s.

[@vickieswearingen2610]

I'm a 60 year old white lady! Back n the 70's, I watched All in the Family, The Jeffersons, Sanford and Son with my parents! Loved them all! These shows were all top hits! Carroll O'Connors famous chair sits n The Smithsonian! Pretty Cool?

[@jr9779]

I’m 55 and watched all those shows, too.

[@victoriadean4912]

I still love Sanford and Son!! I loved Good Times!!

[@eileentsiapanos5430]

Oui. Tres cool!

[@eileentsiapanos5430]

@@victoriadean4912Kid Dynomiiiite!

[@jr9779]

@@victoriadean4912 loved Good Times too

[@michelleturner6865]

I miss being normal and being able to laugh or hear another point of view without being triggered. This show was hilarious and still is.

[@DavidSmith-bg3yy]

Agreed 100%. However, have you noticed that not a single reply to your comment is allowed?

[@pinkcashmere573]

Totally agreed. PC culture is oppressive. People can’t grow without open discussion and learning.

[@darrellusa8271]

Absolutely

[@Darkomn]

The point of Archie was to put on display how stupid and ignorant this behavior was. Clearly that missed you

[@CookieCaspari]

The guy with the hat looks troubled

[@expandingknowledge8269]

What young people will never really understand today, is what was portrayed on sitcoms of this era, were snippit's from real life. Norman Lear just incorporated real life into his series shows. I grew up in the sixties and seventies and everyone loved these programs, they were social norms for the time. Today people are so brittle and fragile, they won't tolerate language that is abusive to their psyche. Part of growing up is being able to take life's blows on the chin and roll with them. Not everything in life is serious, but if it is to you, your overly sensitive, and need to chill your will.

[@jessicalee7119]

This was a great show ~ I m so glad you’re watching this and discussing it ~ intelligently.

[@TeamBrooksx6]

He is/was a genius - he played a part that allowed conversations in homes - too many people missed the genius of his show

[@maryclarry5570]

It's funny to watch the faces of these two young people who asked, was five fifty a good wage back then? It's amazing how we have overcompensated. For what was supposed to be comedy? And now there's no feeling to any of the shows that are on t. V and there's no Thought provoking conversations that happen afterward. It is cringeworthy at this point in time in history. But even back then I would watch this show with my parents and think. Oh my gosh, this guy is crazy... And they would be able to show me a different way to respond to people like this. They could also see how I was growing a maturing as a young adult and how I. Reacted to what was said. It really was a brilliant show.

[@KS-ml2ki]

I hope these dudes do watch an entire episode. It would give them so much more context and nuance.

[@cynicalbeotch]

They should watch Sanford and Son as well.

[@joanneperlmutter2038]

He said the quiet part out loud. What a brilliant actor he was. Carol O'Connor deserved all his accolades.

[@strayshottz4485]

This is comedy. It's not racist to stereotype.

[@maryannconmy5807]

The guy on the left is taking everything to heart. I wished he was as open as the other guy. We grew up with Archie, Sanford and son & The Jeffersons and we laughed all the time.

[@aisaxonawiat6484]

As you get to know Archie's character over time you come to discover that he is actually more kind and compassionate than what he outwardly displays most of the time.

[@kavinbell4621]

He was an actor just like all the other actors no different, whether they realize it or not they were a bigger part of a sceam to open up the American people to things that isn't normal in today's society and that's all I'll say about that.

[@aisaxonawiat6484]

@@kavinbell4621 ......Lol...... it's your opinion and nothing more.....

[@kavinbell4621]

@@aisaxonawiat6484 your right it is my opinion, but more than that I've been around for over 50 plus years I've seen how those actors have said and done things back when I was a kid that wouldn't have been accepted even though it was a comedy show, every thing hollyweird has done was for there own agenda and it isn't a good thing. None of those actors are good roll models for anyone heck most all of them couldn't even have a proper life much less interact with the public.

[@jdsimz8147]

My grandfather was the same way. Was tough and grizzled but then would give you the shirt off his back.

[@Vince-lq3ve]

@@kavinbell4621 I think you finished your previous comment with "and that's all I'll say about that." I was kinda hoping you meant that.

[@triumphlover7455]

Watching these kids blushing and breaking a guilty sweat like a priest at a Pee Wee game is almost as funny as the clips.

[@deluxetransport3208]

Yeah, they just don't know how to take this .😂😂

[@grammadoh1]

I grew up as a teen in the 70s watching All In The Family with my dad. We are Polish and my dad laughed so hard at Archie. ❤ It's fun watching these 2 young guys watch this for the first time. 😂

[@hhealy7199]

It's not fun to watch them, a sense of humour has bypassed this generation, so politically correct and they don't know the straight jacket they've been put in. Everything is taboo so you can't say a word. No more humour.

[@suekelly6293]

@hhealy7199 It is ridiculous. I used to do stand-up comedy. I have not done it in a few years because I cannot deal with the PC bullshit. Miss me some Don Rickles!!

[@paigeballard253]

I’m a 60 year old white woman who grew up with “Archie Bunker” being the only sitcom my daddy would watch. I think he identified with him. I agree with everyone, watch more! They hit every social issue of the day head on. Groundbreaking tv.

[@jenncoppes1260]

Thanks guys! Really enjoyed your reaction and smiles! Carroll O'Connor was a wonderful actor!

[@flu4pdmt]

You hit the nail on the head - his ignorance was the comedy! This show was watched by every ethnic group and it was extremely successful for it's time. The writing was stellar!!!

[@Robert08010]

Normal Lear.

[@kathymcmc]

It was awesome. We always rolled laughing at Archie. We even called my uncle, Meathead.

[@dustysmoke4996]

What people have to understand, and i'm not sure if these two guys in the video quite caught on to it, was that the actor playing Archie Bunker didn't believe in any of the slurs, insults, bigotry and misogyny he spouted on the show. He was a very liberal and forward-thinking man who was totally against all that sh*t. He was just a really good actor who played the part of the ignorant cretin to a T, as the best way to point out just how stupid and ignorant those kind of people really are. All In The Family was to social issues back in the day, what M.A.S.H. was to the insanity of war. A glaring mirror of the absurdity.

[@rayfish007]

@@dustysmoke4996 exactly , this behavior was being made fun of and displaying how ignorant and comical it is to think that way.

[@Mrs.T.Rusch25]

That's because back then comedy wasn't afraid. Nothing was off the table and no one was spared. Blazing Saddles was the most popular movie back then. It was as racist as could be. What no one realizes is that the majority of the movie was written by Richard Pryor! Stereotypes were comedy gold and people appreciated it because we could all see, not only our neighbors in these jokes, but ourselves as well. We could laugh at ourselves because we weren't tender, little, bubble-wrapped doilies.

[@margospica6429]

He’s an actor… he was actually a very nice person… The whole point of the show was to break down the barriers of the time… And amazingly, they didn’t sugarcoat it…

[@mauger63]

And also, no one got all upset and crying about their feelings being hurt. Like they do nowadays so very sad. I’m afraid to even talk anymore because I don’t know if anything I’m gonna say it’s going to cause a problem

[@karenalves8100]

Yeah! Everyone is So Angry and Offended these days and MOST of them don't even Know or Understand How and Why that is! I feel sad for some of those young people these days. So Uniformed and So Ready to CANCEL everything without being able to Explain Why! Soooo SAD!

[@SoniamVento]

You both are having the exact visceral reaction that the creator of the show wanted you to have. The point of the show was to highlight racism and all it's horrors. This show did more to highlight and help end racism than the endless protests we have seen in the past 10 years. More over...the actors we great friends that worked together off camara on social issues. Yes, Even Carrol O'Conner = Archie Bunker. It was a great show and a great time to grow up.

[@TheAislynnRose]

They had to fight the censors almost every episode in this series, To get them on the air. The fans won out!! Archie the epitome of racism and as you see they ARE having conversations. Unlike now, where you would get canceled. They tackled almost every taboo subject, from race, gay, trans, SA, pregnancy, death. I loved the fact that The Jefferson's the black family that moves in next door, George is just as racist but on the opposite side. He is a black Archie. Also spun off this show to become The Jefferson's, which I also loved to watch.

[@ginabeavers2625]

All in the Family was so fun! This kind of humor mocking ignorance and at the same time making Archie sympathetic was genius

[@SharonEllis-ze6hs]

During the great immigration from Ireland to America, in New York, signs in windows of businesses and housing said " no Irish need apply". This was called the Nina law. The Irish werd depicted as trash, gorillas, circus monkeys, etc. in newspapers. Oh, and to everyone who promote native Americans as more noble than Europeans in the past, look at the beliefs of different native nations toward each other. Racism isn't a black white issue, it is humankind issue. It's called 😂being "afraid of the "different". I speak as someone of different cultures. We are all children struggling to become "adults" in the hard "history" of the world.

[@Meo.I.Am.]

The genius to this show, was that it was intended to get people to see both sides and hear both arguments without actually having to have them yourselves...it gently changed minds. It just shows what a terrific actor he was, to have played that role so perfectly. It shows you how far we've come and people are acting like it's so horrific now.

[@traveleractual]

I couldn't agree more. I think people are somehow amazed by the idea of having different, and sometimes wildly different opinions on a given subject. For as far as we've come since the 70's in so many areas, it's telling that we've devolved as well. Back then people were allowed to disagree and it wasn't the end of the world.

[@ceciliavillalobos5044]

It was. Allowed, just like today, ecept back then they didnt have rights, for real. It was the begining to hide your distain, even the KKK, hide faces. ARCHIE BUNKER, helped the growth òn this Country now Republicans want to go in reverse. Trump is this guy today.

[@lightningbug276]

It’s sad how everyone is afraid to joke now

[@Meo.I.Am.]

@travelactual I truly think it's from pushing the mentality that "everyone gets a trophy even if you stink at it"...people don't learn coping skills, everyone is babying them and heaven forbid we hurt their feelings. I'm not saying be outwardly mean, but we should care more about what is right and wrong, and stop PRETENDING like everything is fine all the time, you know?!

[@leannechristianson5218]

Genius indeed

[@christiehickman7573]

Even during the time of the Archie Bunker show it was rare to come across anyone like him. It was comedy. He is an Actor.

[@kathyblackman2728]

Such a great show for so many reasons! That’s Rob Reiner but Carl Reiner was his dad and good on you for knowing about him as well!

[@michaelmartin1714]

Funny thing about the actor that played Archie Bunker. His next role he played a Southern cop who married a black woman in the show "Heat of the night."

[@patrickhorvath2684]

Great show ! I watch it on KZbin

[@MaryannMartin77]

And he played that brilliantly too. He was nothing like Archie in real life

[@reproverebukeexhortevangel2131]

He was an amazing actor. He wasn't actually prejudiced.

[@cincin9509]

Rob Reiner

[@alexismckenna1564]

Loved In the Heat of the Night. Sidney Poitier did a great job and it was terrible how just before making that show he was almost killed in the South by the Klu Klux Klan. That's why it was filmed in the North. Now I want to rewatch that whole series...

[@OdinsHelRider]

I am 62, and grew up with Archie.....back then when we were growing up, we didn't get our feelings hurt by every little thing. This man, Archie, made people laugh and actually love their fellow man no matter what color or religion they were....

[@VisualAssault2011]

Lovely post on your part... being 62 myself, all I remember is how shows like "All In the Family" were meant to open people's eyes... sadly, today we have the butt-hurt, too sensitive to engage in dialog types telling us what we should see...

[@donnacourtenay7656]

Well stated. Everyone, all races, loved Archie. We knew it was irony. And we weren't pansies either. We grew up with thick skins.

[@ddreileyz]

62 here also....this was a must see show and we laughed along not thinking about the "political correctness" of laughing to the outrageousness of Archie. The show had great social commentary showing the counter argument to Archie and it was great. We didn't even think about political correctness.

[@TPhoenixt]

The underlying message was " this is as racist as we get" us hawhites

[@274carolyn]

All in the family had to have a warning disclaimer at the start of the show And was banned throughout the south You are a liar

[@melannie1597]

A golden, iconic show that displays the racism that does exist, and in the best way ever. A show for all. Blatantly showing the true world in a comedic way and eye-opening. What a brilliant way to show racism exists

[@PatriotMommy]

You should see Archie and Mr Jefferson's chemistry together. They were hysterical together. They went head to head with one another and made a great team.

[@jimdevlin4949]

They were the same person just different shades!

[@chop3625]

Episode with Sammy Davis Jr. was epically classic.

[@noreenmcgovern1023]

Yup, remember when Sammy Davis, Jr. Kissed him? Great scene

[@brianschmidt9919]

That's because Jefferson was the black Archie Bunker

[@brianschmidt9919]

On The Jeffersons at the beginning of the series run it was a little more provocative and George and Weezy would be standing by while Tom and Helen from upstairs the white and black couple would start arguing and George would look over at wheezy and say under his breath, guess what he's going to call her n*gger and the audience will go crazy because in the real world that happens and that's what makes people love a program is that it speaks to something in their life that they can identify with and recognize

[@robobunch4212]

Oh man. Archie and George Jefferson together. Pure gold.

[@dixiecroft6662]

As someone who watched this the first time around, I can assure you that most of us were laughing at Archie. We already knew how to properly regard each otherwith respect, but many of us were raised by those who couldn't turn loose of the old ways. We loved them and just let them be.

[@bluj5917]

That was one of my all time favs!! Love Archie and Edith they were a must in our house!

[@billrosmus6734]

If you don't get it, the character is making fun of people like him that really existed. The best way to call out that behaviour is to show how ridiculous they are. That show actually was the kind of thing that helped end discrimination by making it public. If you aren't allowed to say stuff, then no one can talk about it.

[@kellyhewittangleberger1557]

I think we need to put this back on tv.🤣🤣🤣🤣The funny thing is nothing was off limits. He went after everyone, and it was funny because it was so ridiculous.

[@davidrussell8795]

It OnLine !😊

[@michelleawe1899]

Omg if we did , I couldn't imagine 😳 the Karen's

[@kookiedakat]

It’s free on freevee app.

[@DMF_603]

Still so relevant 🙁

[@DMF_603]

Aldo, best to watch the complete episodes for better context

[@athenagriego4561]

This show is still hysterical😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@amysjusticeleague3011]

Norman Lear was a genius he followed this with the Jeffersons had their own racism towards whites and then Maud who showed women's rights and it was all about educating. We are all too freaking sensitive nowadays

[@MM-xz5ig]

I absolutely love the fact that All In The Family can still inspire the same conversations and debates as it did back in the 70s. The show really is timeless. There won’t ever be another one like it.

[@BowieRulez]

Yeah, mostly because they’d be too afraid to make it now a days.

[@77Sean]

The fact that you were both so disappointed when the video just stopped and you wanted more, shows just how good this show is!! It was groundbreaking for the times and actually helped in evolving our country through comedy and truth. Truly a masterpiece.

[@leatharay3565]

It was comedy

[@doug3819]

Every person is trapped in their time period, I'm dying laughing and these guys are barely laughing. Though if I watch any comedy in the last 25 years I see nothing funny about it I shake my head thinking what is funny about it. I was born in the 1950s. I could live in the 70s and early 80s forever.

[@coneheadjill]

Norman Lear, the producer of the show, had continual battles with the censors. He had to fight for every script. This show was groundbreaking in enlightening people of their own predjudices.

[@user-hv6om5we3g]

My dad was so much like him. My grandma was Italian and he called her an "I tie". He thought he was better than everybody.

[@handmaidmd]

Watching Archie and George Jefferson go at each other was always funny. This show just hit all the stereotypes of everyone. I don’t think they left anyone out. Also, The Jeffersons received their spin off from the show.

[@sportsman4545]

Yes and the Jeffersons dad was putting down white people the same way.

[@bradentripp8141]

There were seven spin offs...Archie bunkers place..Maude..Gloria the Jeffersons. Good times. Checking in. Houser.

[@BushaBandulu]

Archie B and G Jefferson were mirror image of each other.😂😂

[@PetraVon]

He is acting. He never felt that way. He believed in women's rights and stood for the black people. I grew up watching these, everyday.

[@victoriah.2083]

When All in the Family came out it was quite shocking. It covered a lot of "taboo" subjects. And really used comedy to examine subjects that were bubbling to the surface from long hidden depths. Archie & Edith's chairs are in the Smithsonian btw. That's how groundbreaking the series was.

[@XBootlicker]

Was that days SOUTH PARK

[@victoriah.2083]

@@XBootlicker I consider SOUTHPARK (never cared for it personally) a little bit too crude and pedantic for comparison. I honestly detested the Archie Bunker character and only appreciated Lear's creation years later. I liked the series after Edith was killed off. But audiences didn't. She was truly Archie's better half. The spinoff, THE JEFFERSONS, was more my cuppa.

[@etbarton007]

What made this show so successful is that it pulled out all the unsaid things in the world, put all the hatred of bigots into it, and then gave people a view of how stupid racism could be. Nobody wanted to be Archie Bunker. The show started conversations….its like how comedians can pick at the terrible things of the world, put a spin on it, and suddenly people see terrible things in a new way. This show was the first of its kind…it was a boundary breaker. It would never work today, but then… then it made a difference.

[@toddellzey4407]

Carrol Oconner was not a racist, he was playing a character as Archie. I think this show was genius in how they intentionally addresses racial biases and issues and illustrated the ignorance of many thru Archie Bunker's character. I think the show helped bring about social change in much of America.

[@CN-dl2cj]

I grew up watching All in the Family. It was a brilliant social and cultural commentary where Archie and his thinking was highlighted as morally wrong. He embodied everything unfair and wrong; racism, sexism, homophobia. Yet Archie still had a soft spot, and liked the people he got to know who were different from him. It’s important to know that the actor who played Archie, Carroll O’Connor, was the exact opposite of the character he played. There are great interviews of him on KZbin. The actress who played Edith, Jean Stapleton, was extremely smart. The writing and acting on this show was brilliant. It’s worth watching all the episodes. It was way ahead of its time, and it moved national conversations.