Carroll O’Connor had a candid critique of TV critics.
If you were CBS in 1978, inviting Carroll O’Connor to dinner with some of the most prominent TV critics was likely one of the worst decisions you could make. Unfortunately for the network and everyone at Gingerman restaurant, that’s exactly what happened.
O’Connor famously exploded at one critic, a confrontation that was even documented in the Tampa Bay Times. He expressed his disdain for critics, calling them “jerks,” and concluded with, “I think too many of you don’t know what you are doing.”
This might surprise those familiar with the critical acclaim All in the Family received. The show was beloved by both viewers and critics. Nonetheless, O’Connor’s frustration with the critical community lingered throughout his life until he passed away in 2001.
The tension that fueled O’Connor’s outburst began long before that dinner. Earlier that evening, he had been asked about previous comments he made on a TV talk show, where he labeled critics as “hacks and semi-literates.” When pressed to elaborate, O’Connor didn’t hold back.
“I think you all have been in a position where you’ve said something out of pure emotion that isn’t entirely true. There are semi-literates. Many copy what others write and add a little twist to make it seem like they have insider knowledge.”
He didn’t stop there: “I do think the managing editors of newspapers hire inferior people to write about television,” he asserted.
Unlike many actors, O’Connor had a unique perspective. All in the Family was one of the rare shows to resonate with both the masses and critics, although it faced harsh criticism initially before winning over audiences and reviewers alike.
“The criticism bothers me. I care about it, and most actors I know care. You reach a large audience, and there’s no way to retaliate. The critic always has the last word.”
While critics may have the final say, Carroll O’Connor ultimately had the last laugh. Any writer who offered unfavorable reviews of All in the Family during its run is largely forgotten, while O’Connor continues to entertain audiences as Archie Bunker in endless reruns.
