From the moment the television set became a household staple in America, Norman Lear thrived in the TV medium. Creator, writer and producer of “All in the Family,” “Sanford and Son,” “The Jeffersons” and classic variety TV shows, Norman Lear’s comedy was revolutionary in American popular culture, hitting our funny bones while tackling social issues through the lives of his sitcom characters.
“Norman Lear: His Life and Times” is a new biography of the TV legend written by entertainment journalist and historian Tripp Whetsell. Whetsell joined “City Lights” host Lois Reitzes to talk about the man who shaped American television comedy.
“ He was what I would describe as a mensch….he just could not have been nicer or genial. He wants to make you feel like the most important person in the room. He would say, ‘You know, it’s taken me my entire life to get here, and this is the most important moment in my life. I couldn’t be happier.’ He was just a great guy,” said Whetsell.
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