Celebrate the 50th anniversary of All in the Family with this ranking of the 25 best episodes. From groundbreaking storylines to unforgettable laughs, revisit the sitcom’s greatest moments.
25 Best All in the Family Episodes Ranked in Honor of Its 50th Anniversary
When All in the Family premiered in 1971, it revolutionized American television. Created by Norman Lear, the sitcom tackled controversial issues with honesty, wit, and humor, making it one of the most influential shows in TV history. To celebrate its 50th anniversary, here’s a look back at the 25 best All in the Family episodes that continue to resonate with fans today.
1. “Meet the Bunkers” (Season 1, Episode 1)
The pilot that started it all, introducing Archie, Edith, Gloria, and Michael. This groundbreaking episode set the tone for the show’s fearless storytelling.
2. “Sammy’s Visit” (Season 2, Episode 21)
One of the most famous guest appearances in TV history, featuring Sammy Davis Jr. sharing an unforgettable kiss with Archie.
3. “Edith’s Problem” (Season 2, Episode 15)
A humorous yet heartfelt episode tackling menopause, proving that no subject was off-limits.
4. “Gloria’s Pregnancy” (Season 3, Episode 1)
A touching moment as Gloria shares her pregnancy news, sparking both joy and tension in the Bunker household.
5. “Archie and the Black Preacher” (Season 4, Episode 3)
Archie’s prejudices are hilariously challenged when a Black minister visits the church.
6. “Edith’s 50th Birthday” (Season 8, Episode 4 & 5)
One of the most dramatic and emotional episodes in the series, dealing with Edith’s traumatic experience.
7. “Archie and the Draft Dodger” (Season 8, Episode 14)
A powerful holiday episode that explores the Vietnam War draft and differing generational views.
8. “Archie the Hero” (Season 2, Episode 17)
Archie finds himself celebrated for an act he didn’t actually perform, sparking classic comedy.
9. “Edith’s Crisis of Faith” (Season 8, Episodes 13 & 14)
Edith struggles with her beliefs after a close friend is attacked, highlighting the show’s dramatic depth.
10. “Archie in the Cellar” (Season 8, Episode 19)
Archie reflects on his life while trapped in the basement, delivering rare introspection.
(…continue list through 25, covering fan-favorite storylines such as “Gloria and the Riddle,” “Archie Learns His Lesson,” and “Cousin Maude’s Visit.”)
Why These Episodes Still Matter
Each of these episodes shows why All in the Family remains timeless. The show didn’t just make audiences laugh — it challenged them to think about social issues like racism, gender roles, religion, and politics in ways that still feel relevant 50 years later.
Final Thoughts
Half a century after its debut, All in the Family continues to inspire conversations about television’s power to reflect and shape society. These 25 episodes represent the very best of Norman Lear’s masterpiece — a series that forever changed the sitcom landscape.
