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Sally Struthers, the beloved actress known for her role as Gloria in the groundbreaking sitcom All in the Family, recently opened up about her experiences on the show and her complicated relationship with its creator, Norman Lear. At 77 years old, Struthers feels a sense of freedom to share her thoughts now that Lear has passed away.
In a candid interview on the podcast Let’s Talk About That!, she revealed that her time on the show was not as harmonious as many might assume.
Uninvited and Unappreciated
Struthers recounted how, despite being a central character on the show for eight years, she was never invited to Lear’s home for dinner parties that included her co-stars.
This exclusion left her feeling undervalued and unappreciated. “I wasn’t, in eight years, invited to his home. It didn’t feel good,” she admitted. This sentiment reflects a broader issue of recognition and respect that many actors face behind the scenes, especially in a male-dominated industry.
Struggles with Character Development
Throughout her time on All in the Family, Struthers often felt like the “fourth banana” among the leading cast members. She expressed frustration over the limited character development for Gloria, stating that she often had only a few lines per episode.
“I usually had about three lines per show that said, ‘I’ll help you set the table, Ma,’ ‘Michael, where are you going?’ and ‘Oh, Daddy, stop it,’” she explained. This lack of depth in her character made her feel sidelined, as the writers seemed to struggle to create meaningful dialogue for her role.
A Journey of Growth and Resilience
Despite the challenges, Struthers persevered and eventually found joy in her character’s evolution. After a tough legal battle to exit her contract, she was able to enjoy the later seasons of the show, which included significant developments like the birth of Mike and Gloria’s baby.
Reflecting on her journey, she acknowledged the importance of being part of a groundbreaking series that tackled social issues head-on. “I was lucky enough to be on a groundbreaking national television series,” she stated, highlighting the impact of the show on American culture.
Legacy and Continued Relevance
Struthers’ career has spanned decades, and she remains a beloved figure in Hollywood. From her iconic role in All in the Family to her memorable performance as Babette in Gilmore Girls, she has continued to captivate audiences. Recently, she starred in the Netflix series A Man on the Inside alongside Ted Danson, proving that her talent and charm are still very much alive. As she humorously noted, audiences are still curious about her, saying, “Maybe because they love you or like you, but just as much because ‘Wait a minute, is she still alive? Let’s go see what she looks like now.’”
