Jimmy Kimmel gets choked up over Norman Lear’s death in heartfelt TV monologue

nypost.com:

said to an empty studio. “Norman was the genius who brought us some of the greatest television shows and characters of all time,” Kimmel continued, before listing some of the iconic series Lear created, including “All in the Family,” “Maude,” “Good Times” and The Facts of Life.” “It’s an incredible list and he was an incredible person,” the comedian said, becoming visibly tearful as he spoke.

According to Kimmel, the Emerson College alum “changed situation comedy in the best possible way.“He taught us so much about so many serious things, always making us laugh while he did it, and everyone who works in or even watches television owes him a great debt.

Especially me,” Kimmel stated as a slideshow featuring pictures of the duo played in the background.“I was fortunate enough to work with Norman on several projects over the last five years, including live revivals of some of his greatest shows, and I loved him dearly.

He was so funny.”Kimmel went on to reveal that he and his wife, Molly McNearney, jokingly sent Lear a shirt that read “Norman f – – king Lear” for the holidays in 2022.Lear “loved it” and sent the couple a thank-you letter, which Kimmel read on Wednesday. “Dear Molly and Jimmy, I can’t f – – king believe this f – – king sweatshirt,” Kimmel read. “It’s something I’ve always wanted more than I can f – – king tell.”“You guys are the f – – king best and I wish you the dearest, sweetest, greatest f – – king holiday season in the history of holiday f – – king seasons.