The highly anticipated television special Live in Front of a Studio Audience: Norman Lear’s All in the Family and The Jeffersons is returning with even more star power, bringing together a stellar cast for a one-night-only live event honoring two of the most influential sitcoms in TV history.
Ike Barinholtz is set to reprise the role of Mike “Meathead” Stivic, with Sean Hayes taking on the character of Mr. Lorenzo. Amber Stevens West will portray Jenny Willis Jefferson, while Jovan Adepo steps in as Lionel Jefferson. Joining them are Anthony Anderson as Uncle Henry, Stephen Tobolowsky as Mr. Bentley, and Jackée Harry as Diane Stockwell.
The special airs live on ABC at 8 PM ET on Wednesday, May 22, and will faithfully recreate one original episode from each of Norman Lear’s legendary 1970s comedies. Directed by the acclaimed James Burrows and produced by Sony Pictures Television, the event aims to capture the magic and social relevance of these groundbreaking shows.
Previously announced cast members include Woody Harrelson and Marisa Tomei as Archie and Edith Bunker. Jamie Foxx will take on the role of George Jefferson, with Wanda Sykes playing Louise Jefferson. Ellie Kemper will portray Gloria Stivic, Will Ferrell steps into the role of Tom Willis, and Justina Machado will appear as Florence Johnston.
From 1971 to 1979, All in the Family was a cultural phenomenon, entering millions of American households and boldly addressing controversial topics with a mix of humor and honesty. The show reshaped television storytelling, pushing boundaries and opening doors for political and social conversations in the post–civil rights era.
Its success gave rise to The Jeffersons, which aired from 1975 to 1985. The spinoff made history by featuring the first interracial couple on American television and became one of the longest-running sitcoms led by a predominantly African-American cast.
This special production is brought to life by Smoking Baby Productions, ACT III Productions, Gary Sanchez Productions, and Sony Pictures Television, with executive producers Norman Lear, Jimmy Kimmel, Brent Miller, Will Ferrell, Adam McKay, and Justin Theroux.
