The legendary screenwriter and producer has created or developed hundreds of hit shows including "One Day at a Time," "Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman," "Maude," "Sanford and Son," "Facts of Life" and "Good Times." At one point, he had nine series running on television simultaneously.
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Lear has won six Emmy awards, including four for "All in the Family."
On Thursday morning, Lear posted a video to social media, joking that he was dribbling a little bit because he's entering his second childhood.
"I just turned 101 and that is, they tell me, my second childhood," he said. "Now, a 101-year-old toddler, and I'm thinking about two little words that we don't think pay enough attention to; over and next. When something is over, it's over. We have the joy and privilege of getting on to the next."
He also talked about living in the moment.
Lear received an early birthday present when "Norman Lear: 100 Years of Music & Laughter" was nominated for an Emmy in the Outstanding Variety Special (pre-recorded) category.
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"On The Red Carpet's" George Pennacchio spoke with Lear and his producing partner Brent Miller prior to the special that aired in September. You can stream the special now in the video player above.
"I am going to be as surprised and pleased - or offended! - as anybody viewing," Lear said.
The special, which is streaming now on Hulu, was just as much fun for Lear as it was for the millions who watched it.
"That was the gift of gifts and it's been a pleasure all these years to give that gift back to the American people," Lear said.
With several projects in the works prior to the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, Lear is showing he still has more to give.