'We have lost a giant': Industry artists pay tribute to TV legend Norman Lear who died at 101

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Norman Lear has died at the ahe 101, one of the most prolific sitcom writers and producers the industry ever had.

His work during the 1970s and 80s is most loved by fans which also include 'Sanford and Son' and 'The Jeffersons.'

A-listers hail Norman Lear for his incredible contribution

Other artists such as John Leguizamo, Yvette Nicole Brown, Jon Stewart, Al Jean, and Steven Canals paid tribute to Lear on Wednesday, December 6.

Billy Crystal also remembered him and wrote, “We have lost a giant..a man of great humor and dignity. What an amazing life that has given so much to us all. He used laughter as a way to look at ourselves. A blessing to have been his friend for almost 50 years.”

Rob Reiner wrote on X, “I loved Norman Lear with all my heart. He was my second father. Sending my love to Lyn and the whole Lear family,” reports Hollywood Reporter.

Meanwhile, Quinta Brunson, of the sitcom Abbott Elementary paid tribute to Lear on social media stating "My Goat. What a life. Rest well, Norman Lear,” she wrote.

Jimmy Kimmel beautifully highlights Norman Lear's achievements

Host Jimmy Kimmel in a statement said, “It is obviously silly to want more time with a person who outlived a whole century but losing Norman Lear, even at 101 years old, feels unfair. His bravery, integrity and unmatched moral compass were equaled by his kindness, empathy, and wit. Norman was very proud of the fact that the so-called Reverend Jerry Falwell dubbed him. ‘The number one enemy of the American family.’ The opposite was true.”

He continued, “More than anyone before him, Norman used situation comedy to shine a light on prejudice, intolerance, and inequality. He created families that mirrored ours, showing us a world in which Archie Bunker and Michael Stivic could learn to not only co-exist, but to love one another. As a young man, Technical Sergeant Lear flew 52 combat missions over Nazi Germany. He continued to fight for freedom all the way to the end of his life on earth.”

George Clooney shared, “It’s hard to reconcile that at 101 years old, Norman Lear is gone too soon. The entire world of reason just lost its greatest advocate and our family lost a dear friend. A giant walked in his shoes.”

Leguizamo said of Lear, “A master of story telling and a healer through his shows!”

The actor-activist added, “He is what all of showbiz should be aspiring to. He is the consummate creative producer we have long abandoned in the industry.”