The upcoming special, Live in Front of a Studio Audience: Norman Lear’s ‘All in the Family’ and ‘The Jeffersons’, is set to feature an impressive lineup of stars. Ike Barinholtz will portray Mike “Meathead” Stivic, while Sean Hayes takes on the role of Mr. Lorenzo. Amber Stevens West will play Jenny Willis Jefferson in this one-night-only event, hosted by Jimmy Kimmel alongside Norman Lear.
Additional cast members include Jovan Adepo as Lionel Jefferson, Anthony Anderson as Uncle Henry, Stephen Tobolowsky as Mr. Bentley, and Jackée Harry as Diane Stockwell.
Scheduled to air live on ABC on May 22 at 8 PM ET, this special will recreate episodes from both iconic series. Directed by James Burrows and produced by Sony Pictures Television, it promises to be a nostalgic tribute to the groundbreaking shows.
Previously announced stars include Woody Harrelson and Marisa Tomei as Archie and Edith Bunker, Jamie Foxx as George Jefferson, and Wanda Sykes as Louise Jefferson. Other cast members include Ellie Kemper as Gloria Stivic, Will Ferrell as Tom Willis, and Justina Machado as Florence Johnston.
From 1971 to 1979, All in the Family was a staple in American households, addressing controversial topics and influencing social and political discussions during the post-civil rights era. Its success led to the spinoff The Jeffersons, notable for featuring an interracial couple and becoming one of the longest-running shows with an African-American cast.
The special is produced by Smoking Baby Productions, ACT III Productions, Gary Sanchez Productions, and Sony Pictures Television, with executive producers including Lear, Kimmel, Will Ferrell, and Adam McKay
