'He opened a lot of doors': Bill Maher remembers Norman Lear on 'Real Time' after TV icon's death at 101
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Bill Maher paid tribute to the late television icon Norman Lear during the recent episode of 'Real Time', acknowledging Lear's groundbreaking influence on the industry following his death at 101.
Bill Maher remembers Norman Lear's legacy
Reflecting on his own lengthy tenure in late-night talk shows, Maher credited Lear for paving the way, stating, "Without somebody like that, I couldn't do what I do."
He further emphasized Lear's role in opening doors for diverse voices in television. "He opened a lot of doors," Maher stated, "but a lot of those doors are shut."
He lamented the change in the television landscape, where the groundbreaking social commentary of Lear's shows like 'The Jeffersons', 'Good Times,' and 'All in the Family' might not find a home today.
This sentiment was echoed by guest Laura Coates, a CNN anchor, who expressed doubts about replicating Lear's success in the current climate, "I don't think you could" recreate the impact of Lear's shows, he admitted.
"The ability to do shows that tackle sensitive topics… I don't know that we have the same ability to do those shows without them getting shut down," he said.
Ray Romano says 'Everybody Loves Raymond' reboot is off limits
Norman Lear was renowned for using humor to tackle sensitive topics like racism and politics in his top-rated sitcoms.
The legacy of Lear's impactful storytelling continues to be remembered for its cultural significance.
The episode also featured Ray Romano, star of the beloved sitcom 'Everybody Loves Raymond,' who confirmed that a reboot is "out of the question."
Romano emphasized the importance of ending the show on a high note, sharing that while the rest of the cast was eager to continue, he and showrunner Phil Rosenthal believed it was the right time to conclude the series.
Bill Maher commended Romano's decision, applauding his commitment to artistic integrity over the allure of a reboot.
"You never went for the reboot," Maher said, acknowledging the often-unsatisfying nature of revisiting past successes.
The conversation on Real Time was a heartfelt homage to Norman Lear's impactful contributions to television and the enduring legacies of beloved sitcoms.
