Norman Lear

“In 98 years, I’ve never lived through such a moment—nor anticipated such a moment. It amazes me the time we’re in, in terms of it being like no other time we’ve been in. I hate feeling imprisoned. I’ve never felt imprisoned before. Having to be here, wishing to see somebody and knowing I can’t go there, that person can’t come here…that’s terribly strange.”

– Norman Lear, episode 184 on Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso

TV Titan Norman Lear returns! This week, the legendary show-runner behind All in the Family and Maude sits down to discuss his feelings of imprisonment during the pandemic (3:00), the story of the dearest, darling Mr. President (10:02), understanding the bifurcation of his childhood (11:31), using laughter to make a living (19:00), remembering his glorious grandmother Bubby who represented love and listening (24:10), the “on to the next” mentality that got him through Hollywood (27:40). Then, finally, he shares his morning ritual with us (39:10), and what he hopes his legacy will be (40:53).

Illustrations by: Krishna Shenoi.

Music by: Dylan Peck

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