Live Norman Lear special, starring Woody Harrelson, Jamie Foxx, Kerry Washington and more, to air on ABC tonight
Norman Lear shows "All in the Family" and "The Jeffersons" will be celebrated in a star-studded live special on ABC tonight.
During the 90-minute event, "Live in Front of a Studio Audience: Norman Lear's 'All in the Family' and 'The Jeffersons,'" the cast will recreate one episode of each classic show. It will be hosted by Jimmy Kimmel along with Norman Lear himself. It will be directed by 10-time Emmy winner James Burrows.
Kerry Washington, the latest cast member announced, will play Louise Jefferson's friend Helen Willis. It was previously announced that Will Ferrell will play Helen's husband, Tom.
"All in the Family" aired from 1971 to 1979. One of its most popular spin-offs, "The Jeffersons" aired from 1975 to 1985.
Here's a look at the all-star cast:
Woody Harrelson: Archie Bunker
Marisa Tomei: Edith Bunker
Jamie Foxx: George Jefferson
Wanda Sykes: Louise Jefferson
Ellie Kemper: Gloria Stivic
Kerry Washington: Helen Willis
Will Ferrell: Tom Willis
Justina Machado: Florence Johnston
Ike Barinholtz: Meathead
Sean Hayes: Mr. Lorenzo
Amber Stevens West: Jenny Willis Jefferson
Jovan Adepo: Lionel Jefferson
Anthony Anderson: Uncle Henry
Stephen Tobolowsky: Mr. Bentley
Jackee Harry: Diane Stockwell
Both Lear and Kimmel expressed enthusiasm for the event, especially for the actors who have signed on.
"They have said over and over again that these two shows were meant for the '70s and would not work today," Lear said. "We disagree with them and are here to prove, with two great casts depicting 'All in the Family' and 'The Jeffersons,' the timelessness of human nature. I cannot wait to see what these glorious performers make in our time of these indelible characters."
"The fact that a group of Oscar winners eagerly agreed to play these iconic characters is a testament to the greatness of these shows and their creator, Norman Lear. To be a part of this is a dream come true for me and for everyone involved," Kimmel said.
After the special, ABC News will air "All About 'All in the Family' and 'The Jeffersons,'" a half-hour report looking at the cultural and historical significance of the two shows.
Don't miss "Live in Front of a Studio Audience: Norman Lear's 'All in the Family' and 'The Jeffersons'" on Wednesday, May 22 at 8 p.m. ET|7 p.m. CT on ABC.
