The actress worked hard to shape her character.
Norman Lear is a unique figure in the history of American television production. Few have dominated network TV for as long as he has—perhaps only Shonda Rhimes rivals him. His shows, along with their spin-offs and characters, have become iconic cultural touchstones that continue to resonate today.
However, in reflecting on Lear’s legacy, it’s essential to recognize the collaborative nature of television as a medium. No show is created by a single individual. While celebrating Lear’s achievements, we must also highlight the contributions of everyone involved.
For instance, in a 1981 interview with The San Francisco Examiner, Jean Stapleton, who portrayed Edith Bunker on All in the Family, discussed her role in shaping the script. Stapleton was a strong advocate for her character, and no one understood Edith better than she did. When a plot point felt off to her, Stapleton wasn’t afraid to speak up.
While she praised the show’s scripts for their honesty and realism, she emphasized how many voices contributed to getting the words right. “Lear established a total freedom for us to contribute,” she noted.
One notable episode involved Archie being caught flirting with a waitress, leading to a confrontation at home. “Edith finds out he went to [the waitress’s] apartment, and he tries to lie his way out of it,” Stapleton explained.
In the initial draft, Edith was written to deliver a clichéd rant and storm out of the house. However, Stapleton felt this wasn’t true to her character. “She wouldn’t have been able to cope or unleash a flood of words.”
Ultimately, Stapleton advocated for a more authentic response: Edith “went to the closet, got her coat on, and very solidly left.”
While Stapleton received praise for her performances, it’s crucial to remember the significance of her voice among the writers. Her contributions helped make Edith Bunker one of television’s most well-rounded and believable characters.
