'All in the Family' and 'Good Times' Remake: Live in Front of a Studio Audience

Tonight, ABC's "Live in Front of a Studio Audience" returned for another round of live remakes of the Norman Lear sitcoms "All in the Family" and "Good Times".

In the opening scene of  'Good Times', we are re-introduced to patriarch James Evans who was played by Andre Braugher, son Michael Evans who was played by 'When They See Us' star Asante Blackk, and Corinne Foxx as Thelma Evans. Later in the show, we are re-introduced to matriarch Florida Evans, who was portrayed by Viola Davis, family friend Willona, which was recreated by Tiffany Haddish, and J.J. Evans, who was played by Jay Pharoah. In this episode, the family was at odds on deciding who to vote for in the election of  the next Chicago Alderman: Fred Davis, which was played by original James Evans' actor John Amos, or newcomer Jimmy Pearson, who was portrayed by 'When They See Us' star Jharrel Jerome. It seems like "When They See Us" came to represent! Every cast member nailed the mannerisms and the distinct personalities of the original cast, especially Jay Pharoah. It certainty felt like watching an episode with the original cast. Anthony Anderson and Patty LaBelle singing the iconic 'Good Times' theme song was definitely the cherry on top.

Next was 'All in the Family'. The beloved, bigoted patriarch Archie Bunker was portrayed by Woody Harrelson. Edith Bunker was portrayed by Marisa Tomei, daughter Gloria Stivic was played by Ellie Kemper, and Gloria's husband Michael was played by Ike Barinholtz. In this episode, Michael invites his friend David (played by Jesse Eisenberg) for the family Christmas Dinner. David fled the U.S. and moved to Canada to avoid being drafted for the Vietnam War. This didn't sit well with Archie, being the patriotic stickler that he is. Woody Harrelson successfully embodied Archie's character, from everything down to the accent and the mannerisms. Same for Marisa Tomei, who reminded everyone of the sweet, motherly nature of Edith Bunker. The cast nailed this episode to a tee. The cast matched the emotion and humor of the original cast, which makes 'All in the Family' a sitcom to remember.

- Nyle Paul