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Norman Lear

112quotes

Norman Lear


#### Full Name and Common Aliases
Norman Milton Lear is a renowned American television writer, producer, and director.

Birth and Death Dates


Born: July 27, 1922
Still active in the entertainment industry.

Nationality and Profession(s)


American
Writer, Producer, Director

Early Life and Background


Norman Lear was born to a Jewish family in New Haven, Connecticut. His father was an insurance salesman, and his mother was a homemaker. Growing up, Lear developed a passion for comedy, influenced by the likes of Charlie Chaplin and Bob Hope. After graduating from high school, he attended Dartmouth College on a football scholarship but dropped out to pursue a career in writing.

Major Accomplishments


Lear's television career spanned over six decades, with significant contributions to popular sitcoms such as "All in the Family" (1971-1979), "Maude" (1972-1978), and "Good Times" (1974-1979). He is credited with creating some of the most iconic characters in television history, including Archie Bunker from "All in the Family." Lear's work not only pushed the boundaries of comedy but also tackled sensitive social issues like racism, sexism, and politics.

Notable Works or Actions


Lear's production company, Tandem Productions (later renamed TAT Communications Company), produced numerous hit television shows. He was also a pioneer in using satire to address real-world problems on TV. Lear has been recognized with multiple Emmy Awards for his writing and producing work. In addition to his television accomplishments, he has written two books: "Even You Can Learn to Write a Novel" (2007) and "You Only Us: A Memoir" (2018).

Impact and Legacy


Norman Lear's impact on the television industry is immeasurable. He helped shape the sitcom genre and introduced complex social issues into mainstream entertainment. His work continues to influence contemporary television writers and producers. Lear has been honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a Peabody Award for his contributions to journalism, and induction into the Television Hall of Fame.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered


Norman Lear's innovative approach to storytelling, tackling tough social issues through satire, has left an indelible mark on television. His quotes often emphasize the importance of pushing boundaries in creative work and addressing real-world problems head-on. As a pioneer in the entertainment industry, Lear continues to be quoted for his insights into the role of media in shaping society and its potential for positive change.

Lear's legacy extends beyond his own body of work; it has inspired generations of writers, producers, and directors to tackle complex issues on television. His commitment to using satire as a tool for social commentary continues to inspire new voices in the entertainment industry.

Quotes by Norman Lear

Norman Lear's insights on:

That’s the heart of it: My shows were not that controversial with the American people. They were controversial with the people who think for the American people.
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That’s the heart of it: My shows were not that controversial with the American people. They were controversial with the people who think for the American people.
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When we went on the air, I didn’t want to be interrupted for an act-one curtain.
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When we went on the air, I didn’t want to be interrupted for an act-one curtain.
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It was very important to me that Archie have a likable face, because the point of the character was to show that if bigotry and intolerance didn’t exist in the hearts and minds of the good people, the average people, it would not be the endemic problem it is in our society.
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It was very important to me that Archie have a likable face, because the point of the character was to show that if bigotry and intolerance didn’t exist in the hearts and minds of the good people, the average people, it would not be the endemic problem it is in our society.
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The American people may not be the best-educated, but they’re very wise at heart.
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The American people may not be the best-educated, but they’re very wise at heart.
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But it also became the experience, or was the experience, of the writers who were attracted to this kind of humor. They’re all men or women who come from the same kind of experience in their own lives.
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But it also became the experience, or was the experience, of the writers who were attracted to this kind of humor. They’re all men or women who come from the same kind of experience in their own lives.
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In the area we’re discussing, leadership begins on Madison Avenue, on the desks and in the offices of people who spend hundreds of millions of dollars buying what will get them ratings.
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In the area we’re discussing, leadership begins on Madison Avenue, on the desks and in the offices of people who spend hundreds of millions of dollars buying what will get them ratings.
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You’re in the business – when you’re a writer, producer, director – to get ratings.
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You’re in the business – when you’re a writer, producer, director – to get ratings.
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I guess because the shows were activist in their own way – the marriage of my public activism and my career activism, you know – people understand me very well. They also understand there’s a very strong bipartisan part in all of this.
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I guess because the shows were activist in their own way – the marriage of my public activism and my career activism, you know – people understand me very well. They also understand there’s a very strong bipartisan part in all of this.
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It crossed our minds early on that the more an audience cared – we were working before, on average, 240, live people. If you could get them caring – the more they cared, the harder they laughed.
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It crossed our minds early on that the more an audience cared – we were working before, on average, 240, live people. If you could get them caring – the more they cared, the harder they laughed.
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Life goes on pretty much the same way. I’ve been working on a couple of films on the side. You may see some more. You may even see another television show.
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Life goes on pretty much the same way. I’ve been working on a couple of films on the side. You may see some more. You may even see another television show.
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