All in the Family is one of the most iconic TV shows in American history. Premiering in 1971, this groundbreaking sitcom revolutionized television by addressing important social issues like race, gender, and class, all while doing so with humor and satire. The show centered on the Bunker family, with the memorable character of Archie Bunker at its heart.
As we revisit the profound impact of All in the Family, one question remains in the minds of many fans: How many of the original cast members are still with us today? Let’s take a journey through the lives of these television legends and explore the few remaining actors who continue to carry the torch of this influential show.
1. All in the Family: A Brief Overview of Its Impact
Why Was All in the Family So Groundbreaking?
Before diving into the cast, it’s essential to appreciate why All in the Family was a game-changer. It was the first sitcom that boldly tackled tough social issues. From racism and sexism to poverty and war, the show didn’t shy away from controversy. Through Archie Bunker, the show’s protagonist, viewers were introduced to an unapologetic working-class bigot whose world was being turned upside down by the evolving social landscape of the 1970s.
Despite the show’s humor, it also conveyed deep social commentary that resonated with viewers of the time and continues to be remembered for its honesty and daring. But behind all of this was a talented cast of actors, many of whom became household names.
2. The Cast of All in the Family – A Star-Studded Group
Who Were the Key Members of the Cast?
The Bunker family included four central characters:
Archie Bunker (Carroll O’Connor), the outspoken patriarch
Edith Bunker (Jean Stapleton), Archie’s naive yet loving wife
Mike “Meathead” Stivic (Rob Reiner), the liberal son-in-law
Gloria Bunker Stivic (Sally Struthers), Archie’s daughter and Mike’s wife
Additionally, many supporting characters added their own memorable touch to the show. These include neighbors like George Jefferson (Sherman Hemsley) and his wife, Weezy (Isabel Sanford), who later became the stars of their own spinoff, The Jeffersons.
3. The Actors Who Are Still Alive: A Living Legacy
The Two Remaining Stars of All in the Family
As of 2025, there are only a few surviving members from the iconic All in the Family cast. This highlights just how long it has been since the show’s initial airing. Here are the two stars still with us:
Rob Reiner: Mike “Meathead” Stivic
One of the most beloved characters from All in the Family, Rob Reiner portrayed Mike “Meathead” Stivic, the liberal son-in-law who frequently clashed with Archie. Reiner was not just an actor; he later became a highly successful director, known for films like When Harry Met Sally, A Few Good Men, and The Princess Bride.
Though his character often disagreed with Archie’s views, Reiner’s real-life political and social activism aligns closely with Mike’s values. Fans still recognize him for his role as Meathead, but his extensive career in film and television has cemented him as an influential figure in Hollywood.
Sally Struthers: Gloria Bunker Stivic
Sally Struthers portrayed Gloria, the daughter of Archie and Edith Bunker. Her character was a blend of naivety and feminism, often providing a bridge between the progressive Mike and the conservative Archie. Over the years, Struthers went on to have a successful acting career, with notable roles in television and film. She continued to act in shows such as Gilmore Girls, and her presence on stage was equally impressive. Her voice was even featured in animated series like The Jetsons.
Despite her character’s contrasting viewpoints from her father, Struthers has remained an advocate for progressive causes, making her life mirror the persona of Gloria in many ways. She is one of the few remaining actors from the All in the Family cast, and her legacy endures.
4. The Departed: Remembering the Rest of the Cast
While Rob Reiner and Sally Struthers are still with us, the other stars of All in the Family have passed away. Let’s take a moment to honor them and reflect on their contributions to television history.
Carroll O’Connor: The Iconic Archie Bunker
Carroll O’Connor, who portrayed the irascible and complex Archie Bunker, passed away in 2001. His portrayal of Archie was a groundbreaking moment in television history. O’Connor was able to bring depth and humanity to a character who, on the surface, seemed like a simple bigot. His performance earned him several Emmy Awards and cemented his place as one of the greatest actors of his generation. His influence on television is undeniable, and his portrayal of Archie remains iconic to this day.
Jean Stapleton: The Heart of the Bunker Family
Jean Stapleton, who played the loving but often misunderstood Edith Bunker, passed away in 2013. Edith was the glue that held the Bunker family together. Despite being the subject of constant ridicule from Archie, Edith was a resilient and caring woman who ultimately helped balance out her husband’s volatile nature. Stapleton’s comedic timing and ability to convey warmth and vulnerability made her performance a key element of the show’s success.
Sherman Hemsley: George Jefferson
Sherman Hemsley, who played George Jefferson, Archie Bunker’s bold and outspoken neighbor, passed away in 2012. George’s character was a proud African-American businessman who found success despite the challenges posed by racism. Hemsley’s portrayal was both humorous and impactful, and he later reprised the role in The Jeffersons, one of the most successful spinoffs in television history. Hemsley’s contribution to both All in the Family and The Jeffersons made him a television legend.
Isabel Sanford: Weezy Jefferson
Isabel Sanford, who portrayed the strong and determined Weezy Jefferson, passed away in 2004. Like her husband George, Weezy was a key character in The Jeffersons spinoff. Sanford’s portrayal of a woman who defied the traditional gender roles of the time made her an iconic television figure. She was the first African-American woman to win an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for her role as Weezy, cementing her legacy in television history.
5. The Enduring Influence of All in the Family
A Show That Redefined American Television
The influence of All in the Family cannot be overstated. The show not only revolutionized the sitcom format but also helped reshape the way that television tackled social issues. The cast, including those who are still alive today, played pivotal roles in making the show a cultural touchstone.
Though many of the original actors have passed away, their legacy continues. All in the Family remains an important part of TV history, and its influence can still be seen in modern television shows that tackle societal issues with humor and honesty.
6. Rob Reiner’s Legacy Beyond All in the Family
A Multifaceted Career
While Rob Reiner’s role as Mike Stivic may have been his most iconic, his career in Hollywood has been far-reaching. Not only has he enjoyed success as a director and producer, but he also remains active in social and political causes. His contributions to both the entertainment industry and his advocacy for progressive values ensure that his place in history is secure.
Conclusion: A Living Legacy in Television History
All in the Family reshaped television and brought issues of race, gender, and class to the forefront in ways that had never been seen before. While many of the show’s legendary actors have passed away, the remaining stars, Rob Reiner and Sally Struthers, continue to contribute to society in meaningful ways. Their involvement in the show ensured that its themes of tolerance, progress, and understanding resonated with audiences then—and continue to resonate today.
