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Sally Struthers: "All in the Family" Was a Shock

Summary

  • Sally Struthers grew up sheltered, unaware of TV's taboo topics.
  • She often asked "What does that mean?" during show rehearsals.
  • Carroll O'Connor became a father figure after her own passed.
Sally Struthers: "All in the Family" Was a Shock

Actress Sally Struthers, famous for her role as Gloria on the groundbreaking sitcom "All in the Family," shared that the show's provocative humor came as a significant culture shock. Her upbringing in Portland, Oregon, was notably sheltered, lacking the bigotry she encountered during the show's early rehearsals.

Struthers admitted to frequently asking castmates and crew "What does that mean?" as she was unfamiliar with the racial slurs and offensive epithets uttered, primarily by her on-screen father, Archie Bunker. This stark contrast to her upbringing presented a steep learning curve.

Beyond the professional challenges, Struthers found a personal connection with co-star Carroll O'Connor, who played Archie Bunker. Following the passing of her own father, O'Connor and his wife offered her immense support, with O'Connor becoming a fatherly presence in her life and even introducing her to her husband.

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The show's taboo topics and controversial language were a significant culture shock for Struthers, who grew up in a sheltered environment.
Carroll O'Connor, who played Archie Bunker, became a paternal figure to Struthers, offering support and guidance after her own father's death.
Struthers is unsure, reflecting that while some elements of life recur, the show's specific moment in television history was unique.

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