‘A Pioneer in TV Storytelling’ – Reactions to the Passing of Norman Lear

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The news of Norman Lear’s passing has elicited a multitude of heartfelt responses from prominent figures in the entertainment industry. Lear, a luminary writer, director, and producer, who reshaped the landscape of prime time television, breathed his last at the age of 101 on Tuesday.

Rob Reiner, via X, formerly Twitter, shared his sentiments, saying, “Norman loved America and told our stories with heart, facing the good, the bad, and the truth of who we are as a nation striving to form a more perfect union. He made generations of Americans care, and we are grateful.”

President Joe Biden, in a statement, expressed his appreciation, noting, “Norman Lear was a national treasure. He was more than a creator of groundbreaking television – he was a trailblazer who transformed how we watch and talk about entertainment for over 85 years, and I will always be grateful for the impact he had in paving the way for so many of us in the industry.”

Jimmy Kimmel, also in a statement, acknowledged Lear’s unparalleled ability to use situation comedy to illuminate issues of prejudice, intolerance, and inequality. He added, “He created families that mirrored ours.”

Lin-Manuel Miranda paid tribute, saying, “There will be so many words on how Norman made the world better in the days to come. They’re all true and they’re all underselling it. I’ll miss writing him birthday tunes every year. I’m grateful for every text and conversation we had. My heart is with his family and all the families he made.”

John Leguizamo, via X, described Lear as “A master of storytelling and a healer through his shows! He is what all of showbiz should be aspiring to. He is the consummate creative producer we have long abandoned in the industry.”

George Clooney, in a statement, lamented Lear’s departure, stating, “It’s hard to reconcile that at 101 years old, Norman Lear is gone too soon. The entire world of reason just lost its greatest advocate, and our family lost a dear friend. A giant walked in his shoes.”

CBS paid its respects, saying, “Norman Lear’s profound influence on television will never be forgotten. He was a creative icon whose comedic and courageous perspective on the America he loved had an immeasurable impact on our network, our viewers, and television overall.” All major networks plan to air a brief Lear tribute Wednesday at 8 p.m. Eastern.

Tyler Perry, in a statement, recognized Lear as a hero and a source of inspiration for spreading laughter and joy. He said, “Anyone who ever had a chance to say something pointed or political in American television entertainment owes Norman Lear their adoration and awe. He saw what was possible in that vacuous glowing box and, almost singularly, he made it so.”

These tributes reflect the profound impact that Norman Lear had on the world of entertainment and his enduring legacy as a pioneer in TV storytelling. His contributions to addressing social issues through comedy will continue to resonate with audiences for generations to come.

Quotes from Norman Lear, such as “I am convinced that laughter adds time to one’s life” and “The problems are still there to be talked about,” serve as poignant reminders of his dedication to both humor and addressing pressing societal concerns.

Jane Fonda shared her sorrow, saying, “Today is a very sad day. Norman Lear, a man who meant a lot to many on a personal level and who changed the face and soul of American comedy, has passed. My heart is heavy.”

Journey Gunderson, Executive Director of the National Comedy Center, highlighted Lear’s profound influence, stating, “Norman Lear revolutionized the television landscape, pushed societal boundaries, and transformed our culture with groundbreaking comedies that addressed serious issues and offered sharp social commentary while being remarkably funny — appealing to broad audiences for over five decades.”

Kathy Griffin, reflecting on her personal interactions with Lear, remarked, “I had the pleasure of spending time with this giant at his home in the Palisades several times. The words ‘legend’ and ‘icon’ get thrown around too much, but this guy was both.”

Paul Rudnick, via X, summed up Lear’s impact by calling him “Truly a legend and a hero, he gave the world infinite laughter, the best sort of controversy and entertainment.” The outpouring of respect and admiration from these voices in the entertainment industry underscores the indelible mark left by Norman Lear on television and American culture.

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