Few characters could soften the tough exterior of Archie Bunker quite like his “little girl,” Gloria, played by Sally Struthers. In All in the Family, Carroll O’Connor portrayed the cantankerous, beer-loving patriarch who often clashed with his son-in-law Mike (Rob Reiner) and frequently bulldozed over his wife Edith (Jean Stapleton), who displayed remarkable patience throughout. However, Gloria, with her blend of her mother’s sweetness and her father’s tenacity, had a unique ability to challenge Archie and elicit his affection despite their frequent disagreements. As Archie famously reminded Gloria on her wedding day, she would always be “his little girl.”
The bond between O’Connor and Struthers transcended their on-screen relationship; it extended into their personal lives as well. In a 2021 interview with Closer Weekly, Struthers reflected on how O’Connor and his wife, Nancy, filled a parental void for her after the passing of her own father in 1968. “Carroll gave me advice, laughed at my antics, hugged me constantly, and even introduced me to my husband,” she shared. This close-knit dynamic made All in the Family especially meaningful for Struthers, transforming it into a profoundly personal experience.
As the show concluded, Struthers, along with her co-stars, was ready to move on, not due to dissatisfaction but rather a desire to explore new opportunities. They returned to support O’Connor in his sequel series, Archie Bunker’s Place, and Struthers even starred in her own spin-off titled Gloria. Despite her fond memories and lasting friendships with O’Connor and Stapleton, revisiting the series has become emotionally challenging for her.
Struthers candidly acknowledged this struggle when reflecting on the show’s final episode, noting, “It was emotional, but I didn’t realize at the time how much I would miss it. Now, whenever I see an episode, I have to change the channel as soon as I see Carroll or Jean because it makes me so sad.” Her deep affection for her on-screen family—coupled with their genuine chemistry—played a crucial role in the show’s enduring success, even when it faced initial setbacks. All in the Family not only pushed societal boundaries but also delivered the heart needed to resonate with audiences, thanks in large part to the incredible performances of its cast. Even now, Struthers’ heartfelt reminiscences about O’Connor remind us of the lasting impact their relationships had, both on and off-screen.
