When it comes to groundbreaking television, there are few shows that match the ambition and success of All in the Family. The Norman Lear-created sitcom tackled nearly every social issue of the time, from racial tensions and antisemitism to queer rights. The Bunker house, led by kindhearted Edith Bunker (Jean Stapleton) and her politically incorrect Archie (Carroll O’Connor), was filled with constant change and a slew of innovative characters (many of whom were spun-off into their own series).
While characters like Maude (Beatrice Arthur) and George Jefferson (Sherman Hemsley) are rightfully remembered for their contributions to the show and their own respective sitcoms, one player who deserves to be spoken about more is that of Beverly LaSalle (Lori Shannon). As one of the first drag queens to appear on American television, she not only shook-up Archie, but became a beloved recurring character. Throughout her run, she slowly helped change Archie’s outlook on the queer community, became close friends with Edith, and was eventually considered an honorary member of the family. Sadly, Beverly’s final appearance ends in a tragedy so great that it causes Edith to rethink her whole faith system. In true All in the Family fashion, the two-part episode is more than just a shocking story, serving as a deeper conversation about sexuality, faith, and hate, themes that are still as important today just as they were back when the show first aired.
