In a recent interview, Sally Struthers shared amusing anecdotes about the misconceptions fans had regarding her relationship with Rob Reiner, her on-screen husband from All in the Family. Decades after the show’s conclusion, many viewers still believed the two were married in real life. Struthers recounted that while out with her actual husband, fans would ask, “Where’s your husband?” when they spotted her with Reiner. “People are so funny,” she noted, observing how firmly some held onto their beliefs.
Struthers portrayed Gloria Bunker-Stivic for 184 episodes from 1971 to 1978, and her bond with Reiner’s character, Michael “Meathead” Stivic, resonated with audiences. She reminisced about their friendship and how they tried to meet regularly for lunch but had to stop due to overwhelming fan attention.
The success of All in the Family transformed Struthers’ life, and she reflected on its cultural significance. “The Bunkers flushed toilets and talked about real things,” she explained, emphasizing how the show peeled back societal veneers to reveal deeper truths about humanity. This raw honesty set a precedent for future television.
Grateful for the show’s enduring impact, Struthers highlighted how it continues to open doors for her career. “I get offered parts without auditioning,” she said, acknowledging the lasting influence of her role in the landmark series.
Currently, she’s busy with theater and is set to star alongside Ted Danson in a forthcoming Netflix comedy titled A Classic Spy. “You rest, you rust!” she quipped, embodying her commitment to staying active in her craft.
