10 Unforgettable ‘All in the Family’ Episodes That Still Hit Home Today

All in the Family stands tall in television history, not just for its groundbreaking approach to comedy and satire, but also for how it deftly tackled the social and political issues of its time. With the famous Archie Bunker at the helm, this Norman Lear masterpiece cemented its legacy as one of the most influential sitcoms of the 1970s, discussing themes like bigotry, racism, and women’s rights with an unapologetically honest lens. For fans eager to relive the most memorable All in the Family episodes, critics looking to explore its seminal impact on TV, and newcomers curious about this classic show’s cultural significance, our carefully selected list of the best episodes is the perfect starting point.

In the interactive spirit of Ranker, we are not only reminiscing about the unparalleled All in the Family but also inviting you, the viewer, to actively participate in further curating our list of top episodes. This votable compilation allows fans of this storied sitcom to have their say in determining which episodes stand out as the cream of the crop. Whether it’s episodes with the hilariously poignant exchanges between Archie and the “Meathead,” Edith Bunker’s heartwarmingly naive quips, or the show’s bold forays into social commentary, your votes matter. So step up, Rankers – weigh in on your all-time favorites and help shape the definitive list of the best episodes of All in the Family. Your contribution is not just a nod to nostalgia but an endorsement of television that changed the game forever.

1. The Stivics Go West

Most Notable Scene: the Bunkers grapple with bittersweet feelings and a sense of loss as they say a tearful goodbye to Mike and Gloria, who are leaving for their new life in California. The powerful scene is heightened by the characters sharing long-hidden feelings and revealing profound connections, making for a poignant farewell and marking the last regular appearance of Sally Struthers and Rob Reiner on the show.

Original Airing: March 19, 1978 Season: 8 Episode Number: 24 Description: Saying goodbye to Mike and Gloria before they leave for California proves traumatic for the Bunkers.

2. Edith’s Night Out

Most Notable Scene: Edith, feeling unappreciated by Archie, decides to take herself out to Kelsey’s Bar, surprising everyone with her newfound independence. This leads to an empowering yet comical situation when she is approached by a flirtatious man, ultimately showing Archie and the viewers that Edith is far from the social wallflower he presumed her to be.

Original Airing: March 08, 1976 Season: 6 Episode Number: 24

Description: Gloria tries to pressure Archie into taking Edith out for a night on the town.

3. Edith’s Problem

All in the Family: Season 2, Episode 15 | Rotten Tomatoes

Most Notable Scene: A powerful and moving moment where the effects of Edith’s menopause come to a head at a family gathering. During a heated discussion at the dinner table, Edith, typically the sweet and accommodating matriarch, loses her temper and lashes out at Archie in an uncharacteristic display of frustration and anger. This raw and emotional outburst provides a stark contrast to Edith’s usual demeanor, shedding light on the challenges and mood swings associated with menopause, and highlighting the show’s willingness to address sensitive real-world issues with candor and depth.

Original Airing: January 08, 1972 Season: 2 Episode Number: 15
Description: Edith’s erratic behavior puzzles the family and puts a damper on Archie’s and her planned trip to a new resort.

4. George and Archie Make a Deal

Most Notable Scene: George Jefferson tries to win over Archie Bunker’s support for his city council campaign by being unusually friendly. However, Archie grows suspicious of George’s intentions, leading to a classic confrontation where George’s true motive, to expand his dry-cleaning business, is humorously revealed.

Original Airing: November 30, 1974 Season: 5 Episode Number: 12
Description: George Jefferson uses Archie’s signature to get on the ballot when he decides to run for a local political office.

5. Edith’s 50th Birthday

Most Notable Scene: Edith Bunker faces a harrowing experience when, while home alone preparing for her own surprise 50th birthday party, she is confronted by a man posing as a detective who turns out to be an attempted rapist. The episode is intense and emotional, veering from the show’s usual comedic tone to tackle the serious issue of sexual assault, and culminates when Edith narrowly escapes the attack using a burning cake, illustrating her resilience and bravery in the face of danger.

Original Airing: October 16, 1977 Season: 8 Episode Number:4

Description: Archie, Mike and Gloria plan a surprise party for Edith’s 50th birthday, but an unwelcome visitor has something else in mind.

6. Cousin Maude’s Visit

Most Notable Scene: Edith’s outspoken and liberal cousin, Maude Findlay, arrives to care for a bedridden Archie and Mike, who are both suffering from the flu. Maude’s no-nonsense attitude and headstrong beliefs clash head-on with Archie’s conservative views, leading to a battle of wits and ideologies that provides a humorous yet insightful look at family dynamics and political differences.

Original Airing: December 11, 1971 Season: 2 Episode Number: 12

Description: Edith’s favorite cousin comes to the rescue when Archie gets the flu.

7. Judging Books by Covers

Most Notable Scene: Archie jumps to conclusions about Mike’s friend Roger’s sexuality based on his mannerisms and interests, while simultaneously failing to recognize that one of his own drinking buddies, Steve, is gay. The episode culminates in a humorous yet impactful scene that challenges Archie’s stereotypes and prejudices, revealing the folly of judging someone based on appearances or behaviors alone.

Original Airing: February 09, 1971 Season: 1 Episode Number: 5

Description: Archie ridicules one of Mike and Gloria’s friends for being gay.

8. The Draft Dodger

Most Notable Scene: A vehement and emotional debate erupts between Archie Bunker and his son-in-law Mike’s draft-dodger friend during a Christmas dinner, exposing the sharp generational and ideological divides over the Vietnam War. The poignant moment is heightened by Eugene Roche’s character, a Gold Star father whose son died in the war, offering a sobering counterpoint to Archie’s tirade, leaving viewers with a deep sense of the war’s emotional and divisive impact on American society.

Original Airing: December 25, 1976 Season: 7 Episode Number: 15

Description: Christmas dinner finds Archie playing host to a draft dodger and a father whose son was killed in the war.

9. The Bunkers and the Swingers

Most Notable Scene: Edith naively responds to a personal ad in a magazine hoping to make new friends, but she and Archie are taken aback when they find out that their prospective friends, the Rempleys, are actually interested in “swinging.” The episode reaches its comedic climax when it dawns on the Bunkers that the couple they have invited into their home has a very different idea of friendship, leading to amusing misunderstandings and Archie’s classic line of not wanting “creepos, weirdos or sexos” in his house.

Original Airing: October 28, 1972 Season: 3 Episode Number: 7

Description: Edith answers a friendship ad in the “swap” section of a magazine.

10. Two’s a Crowd

All in the Family" Two's a Crowd (TV Episode 1978) - IMDb

Most Notable Scene: In a poignant moment of vulnerability, Archie confronts his deeply-rooted prejudices and reflects on his relationship with his father when he gets locked in the storage room with his son-in-law Mike. This emotionally charged scene stands out in television history as a rare instance where Archie uses a racial slur, starkly revealing the flaws and humanity of the character.

Original Airing: February 12, 1978 Season: 8 Episode Number: 19

Description: Archie and Mike are accidentally locked in the storeroom of Archie’s Place.

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