Pioneering screenwriter and producer Norman Lear dies at 101

Norman Lear, who revolutionized prime time television in the 1970s has passed away.

A spokesperson says he died Tuesday night in his sleep, surrounded by family at his home in Los Angeles.

Lear was 101.

The award-winning writer, director and producer created controversial hit comedies highlighting social commentary and flawed characters.

Between 1971 and 1986, Lear’s shows dominating TV screens included “All in the Family,” “Maude,” “Good Times,” “The Jeffersons,” and “One Day at a Time.”

At his professional peak, he had 7 hit sitcoms on the air at once.

Lear’s series made superstars of Carroll O’Connor, Bea Arthur and Redd Foxx, plus launched the careers of Rob Reiner and Valerie Bertinelli.

Based on a British sitcom, “All in the Family” – which featured the close-minded Archie Bunker – was the number 1 series for 5 years in a row.

Lear’s groundbreaking TV show earned 4 Emmy Awards as best comedy series, only to finally be eclipsed in 1998 by 5-time winner Frasier.

Lear won multiple awards, including six Primetime Emmys and two Peabody Awards, and was a member of the Television Academy Hall of Fame.