In June of 2000, I found myself in the green room of the Today show at 30 Rockefeller Plaza, NBC headquarters in New York City. When we walked in, we saw television and democracy icon Norman Lear donning his signature canvas porkpie hat.
Norman Lear, of course, was a legendary figure in the world of television who had recently made headlines for an extraordinary purchase—an original 1776 copy of the Declaration of Independence for $8.14 million. He was on a mission to share the historical document with the American people, estimating that “99% of Americans” would never have the opportunity to see it otherwise.
Sadly, I’m blocking Norman Lear who was viewing it with me.
John Dunlap, a Philadelphia printer, produced the copy on the night of July 4, 1776. Among the hundreds printed and distributed to the 13 colonies, only 25 have survived, declaring their independence from Great Britain.
Side note: Sotheby’s auction house says it was the highest price ever paid for an item on the internet and for any American historical document. Lear’s commitment to taking this rare piece of American history on the road underscored his passion for democracy and education.
Norman’s impact on the television landscape was equally profound. All in the Family marked the beginning of his sitcom reign, tackling societal issues with humor and insight. The show’s success led to spin-offs like Maude, featuring Edith’s cousin, and Good Times, centered around the struggles of a Black family facing poverty. Arguably, one of his most iconic contributions was The Jeffersons, using the medium to address social issues and promote understanding.
The Friday Concert Series guest was Britney Spears. Katie Couric and I watched the then 18-year-old wearing the clichéd schoolgirl outfit. She was grinding on a school desk. Katie and I were puzzled, “Is this supposed to be sexy?” Months before, she was a minor. Anyway, Norman wanted to meet the soon-to-be superstar. The teenage Britney likely had no clue who he was because she refused to meet with him. He turned to me and said, “Hmm, I’d bet she’d want to meet if I were creating a new show.” Although some thought that to be an arrogant comment by Norman, I knew what he meant. I found him to be kind, grounded and thoughtful.
