Ike Barinholtz will re-create the role of Mike “Meathead” Stivic, Sean Hayes will play Mr. Lorenzo, Amber Stevens West is set to play Jenny Willis Jefferson in the one-night-only sitcom special hosted by Jimmy Kimmel and those classic series’ creator, Norman Lear.
Jovan Adepo will re-enact the role of Lionel Jefferson, Anthony Anderson joins as Uncle Henry, Stephen Tobolowsky is set to play Mr. Bentley, and Jackée Harry will play Diane Stockwell. The special, airing live on ABC, Wednesday, May 22 at 8 PM ET, will re-create an original episode from each of the iconic 1970s Lear comedies. James Burrows will direct, and Sony Pictures Television is producing.
Previously announced stars include Woody Harrelson and Marisa Tomei as Archie and Edith Bunker. Also previously announced, Jamie Foxx takes the role of George Jefferson, and Wanda Sykes will play Louise Jefferson. Ellie Kemper will reenact the role of Gloria Stivic, Will Ferrell is set to play Tom Willis, and Justina Machado is Florence Johnston.
From 1971-79, All in the Family was watched in millions of American homes, tackling controversial subjects and shaping ongoing political and social conversations in the post-civil rights era.
The success of All in the Family launched spinoff The Jeffersons, which ran from 1975-85. It was the first television series to feature an interracial couple, going on to be one of the longest-running shows on TV with an African-American cast.
Live in Front of a Studio Audience: Norman Lear’s ‘All in the Family’ and ‘The Jeffersons’ will be produced by Smoking Baby Productions, ACT III Productions, Gary Sanchez Productions and Sony Pictures Television. Lear, Kimmel, Brent Miller, Will Ferrell, Adam McKay and Justin Theroux will executive produce;
Get ready for the ultimate television throwback—because ABC is breathing new life into two of the most iconic sitcoms ever made. All In The Family and The Jeffersons, both created by the legendary Norman Lear, are making a return for one night only. And as if that wasn’t exciting enough, even more Hollywood stars are stepping into the spotlight to honor these game-changing shows.
This isn’t your average reboot. It’s a celebration, a live performance, and a tribute rolled into one—and it’s bringing together award-winning actors, modern comedy royalty, and pure nostalgic gold.
A Look Back: Why These Sitcoms Still Matter
Norman Lear Changed TV Forever
Back in the ’70s, Norman Lear wasn’t afraid to shake things up. All In The Family and The Jeffersons didn’t just make people laugh—they made people think. They took on big issues like racism, class, and gender politics, and they did it right from the living room.
From Groundbreaking to Timeless
These shows weren’t just edgy for their time. Their themes are still incredibly relevant today. And now, with this new tribute, a whole new generation is about to discover why.
Star Power: Who’s Taking the Stage This Time?
Jamie Foxx, Woody Harrelson & Marisa Tomei—And More
In the first live re-do, we saw Jamie Foxx nail George Jefferson and Woody Harrelson bring Archie Bunker back to life with Marisa Tomei as Edith. They were flawless. And now, ABC is bringing even more big names into the mix for this next go-round.
The Fresh Faces Joining the Sitcom Legacy
New reports tease the arrival of even more A-listers—think Emmy winners, SNL icons, and even a few surprise dramatic actors stepping into comedic roles. While full names are still under wraps, fan speculation points to talents like Tiffany Haddish, Anthony Anderson, or even John Goodman making an appearance.
What Makes This Live Event So Special?
No Retakes, Just Real Reactions
There’s something electric about live TV. The jokes hit harder. The timing feels sharper. The performances are raw. You’re not just watching actors—you’re watching stars walking a tightrope with millions watching.
Live Audience, Real Laughter
Just like the originals, this re-do will have a live studio audience. That means authentic laughs, audible gasps, and an energy you just can’t fake.
Inside the Set: Classic Meets Contemporary
Rebuilding the Bunker & Jefferson Homes
Set designers are pulling out all the stops to recreate the vintage feel of the Bunker living room and the Jeffersons’ deluxe apartment. But there’s a modern polish to it—updated lighting, new cameras, and slick direction.
Easter Eggs and Hidden Tributes
Keep your eyes peeled during the live broadcast. Insiders say the sets are loaded with little nods to Norman Lear’s legacy—photos, catchphrases, even old props from original episodes.
The Best of Both Worlds: Classic Humor Meets Modern Talent
You’ll Laugh, Then You’ll Think
That’s the magic formula. These aren’t just funny skits; they’re social commentaries wrapped in laugh tracks. Expect modern interpretations of scenes that still sting with truth today.
Expect Improv Moments
If Jamie Foxx returns (and he’s known for it), expect unscripted moments. Last time, he cracked the cast with a live flub—and handled it like a pro. These are the moments that make live TV unforgettable.
What Fans Can Expect from the One-Night-Only Event
It’s Not Just for Boomers
Sure, All In The Family and The Jeffersons were classics from the ’70s and ’80s—but this live re-do is designed for everyone. Whether you’re Gen Z, Millennial, or a die-hard Gen X-er, this is the kind of TV that brings people together.
Interactive Viewing
ABC is expected to tie in live tweets, real-time fan reactions, and maybe even a few audience polls. This is TV and a live social event.
Why Norman Lear’s Work Still Speaks to Us Today
He Wrote What Others Were Scared To Say
Norman Lear dared to show America what it really looked like—warts and all. From Archie’s old-school prejudice to George Jefferson’s unapologetic ambition, Lear held up a mirror and made us laugh at our own reflection.
His Stories Are America’s Stories
Lear’s genius was making sitcoms personal. The characters weren’t just jokes—they were us. And this tribute gives them a new voice in a new time.
When & Where to Watch It All Go Down
Mark Your Calendar
The live event will air on ABC (check your local listings). You can also stream it on Hulu afterward, but trust us—watching it live is the way to go.
Bring the Popcorn
You don’t want to miss a second. This is one of those “where were you when…” television moments.
Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Want to Tune In
This isn’t just nostalgia for nostalgia’s sake. It’s a bold, funny, and heartfelt reminder of where we’ve been—and where we still need to go. Norman Lear’s sitcoms changed the world once… and now, with the help of a new generation of stars, they just might do it again.
