Struthers assumed that the series would have a very short life.
While All in the Family was based on the British sitcom Till Death Do Us Part, it was viewed as a groundbreaking piece of entertainment, even during its original run. As with any pioneering show, those involved in its creation were uncertain about how audiences would respond.
Sally Struthers, a key member of the cast for many seasons, was initially skeptical about the series’ success. In an interview with The Dispatch, she admitted that she didn’t have high hopes for the show.
“When we first went on, we thought we were going to be taken off the air,” Struthers recalled. “We knew the show would infuriate some viewers and leave others in disgust. After the first episode aired, we thought it would be our swan song. Little did we know that within a year we’d be number one.”
In another interview with The Akron Beacon Journal, Struthers expressed pride in their work: “I always felt it was a blend of adult comedy without being silly. In the history of television, we were the first family portrayed who seemed absolutely real. I believe it held up a mirror to America, and those who wanted to look did.”
Despite her success, Struthers remained humble. “With everything I’ve experienced, I don’t see myself as a big star. To me, I’m still little Sally Ann Struthers from Portland, Oregon.”
