TV Legend Norman Lear dies at 101, Hollywood celebs mourn the loss

Norman Lear, who is renowned as Hollywood’s TV legend of sitcoms like "The Jeffersons, All in the Family" passed away at the age of 101 on Tuesday. The multi-faceted artist has left Hollywood reeling with sadness after his death was confirmed by his family on Wednesday in a social media post. According to the statement, Lear passed away at his family home in Los Angeles with a high spirit of life “as he sang songs until the very end.”

The veteran writer-producer-activist had a full circle of life with his exceptional career spanning over decades. Several Hollywood stars and TV personalities have expressed their grief over his demise.

Taking to the Instagram handle of Norman Lear, his family shared the news of his demise and a part of it wrote, “It is with profound sadness and love that we announce the passing of Norman Lear, our beloved husband, father, and grandfather.”

It was mentioned in the post that he passed away quietly in peace on December 5, surrounded by his loved ones, while bravely defeating death as he sang songs until the end.

“As we celebrate his legacy and reflect on the next chapter of life without him, we would like to thank everyone for all the love and support,” the post added in a heartfelt tribute.

Hollywood pays tribute

Fans and followers, along with Hollywood’s TV personalities flooded the comment section with condolences and prayers. American comedian and actress Wanda Sykes wrote, “Rest in peace, dear Norman. Thank you for opening doors, hearts, and minds.” While Back to the Future’s Christopher Lloyd, aka Dr Brown commented, “Rest in peace Norman. You brought so much joy to us all.”

Filmmaker Ava DuVernay also expressed her grief and said, “You did beautiful things with your long and mighty life, kind sir. Will always remember your kindness and personal advice. Grateful.”

Rob Reiner shared on his X account, “I loved Norman Lear with all my heart. He was my second father. Sending my love to Lyn and the whole Lear family.”

How did Norman Lear revolutionize TV Comedies?

The Comedy genius and stalwart of sitcoms was the recipient of six Emmy Awards and also received an Oscar nomination for Divorce American Style. His bold takes on TV sitcoms and comedies earned him the accolade of TV legend after contributing to several hits like All in the Family, Sanford and Son, and One Day at a Time. His topical humor ingrained creatively in his 1970s shows birthed a new era of revolution for the TV industry.