'All in the Family' and 'The Jeffersons' Get TV Specials With New Casts

While there’s no All in the Family reboot in the works, we are going to get a taste of a new Archie Bunker thanks to a television special on the way from Jimmy Kimmel and Norman Lear, as the two are recreating episodes of both that show and its spinoff series, The Jeffersons, for ABC. Airing on May 22, this 90-minute special is going to feature stars like Woody Harrelson, Marisa Tomei, Jamie Foxx and Wanda Sykes bringing those Classic TV characters back to life.

HOLLYWOOD, CA - JULY 11: Jimmy Kimmel attends Bobcat Goldthwait's Misfits & Monsters Premiere Event at The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel on July 11, 2018 in Hollywood, California. 392403. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for truTV) — Getty Images

Television went through a lot of changes in the 1970s as sitcoms shifted from silly (though beloved) concepts and characters to ones rooted more in reality. All in the Family and The Jeffersons are two perfect examples of that shift since they addressed social issues of the day in a comedic fashion — something no show before them had ever done.

“They have said over and over again that these two shows were meant for the ’70s and would not work today,” Norman, who created both series, commented. “We disagree with them and are her to prove, with two great casts depicting All in the Family and The Jeffersons, the timeliness of human nature. I cannot wait to see what these glorious performers make in our time of these indelible characters, and I couldn’t be more grateful for Jimmy Kimmel, Sony and ABC for their collective willingness to conceive and pursue this never-been-done-before event.”

“The fact that a group of Oscar winners eagerly agreed to play these iconic characters is a testament to the greatness of these shows and their creator, Norman Lear,” adds Jimmy. “To be a part of this is a dream come true for me and everyone involved.”

Scroll down to see the cast that’s been assembled so far and the roles they’re playing.

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George Jefferson

Back in the ’70s, the blustery George Jefferson was played by Sherman Hemsley, who was nominated for an Emmy and Golden Globe for the role, and took home a NAACP Image Award. The character had his start on All in the Family, with the Jeffersons being the Bunkers’ next-door neighbors. Jamie Foxx, an Oscar and Golden Globe winner for Ray, will be channeling George Jefferson.

Louise Jefferson

Better known as “Weezie,” Louise Jefferson was played by Isabel Sanford on The Jeffersons, winning an Emmy Award for her portrayal in 1981, the first black actress to win in the category of Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series. Comedian Wanda Sykes (currently appearing on Blackish) will be playing her in the special.

Gloria Stivic

Sally Struthers was Archie’s little girl, Gloria Stivic (married to Rob Reiner’s “Meathead,” as her dad referred to him), and she took home two Emmy Awards in the process. Assuming the part now is Ellie Kemper, two-time Emmy nominee for her lead role in the Netflix series Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.