Carroll O'Connor as Archie Bunker: Frequently called a "lovable bigot '', Archie was an assertively prejudiced blue - collar worker. A World War II veteran, Archie longs for better times when people sharing his viewpoint were in charge, as evidenced by the nostalgic theme song "Those Were the Days '' (also the show 's original title). Despite his bigotry, he is portrayed as loving and decent, as well as a man who is simply struggling to adapt to the changes in the world, rather than someone motivated by hateful racism or prejudice. His ignorance and stubbornness seem to cause his malapropism - filled arguments to self - destruct. He often rejects uncomfortable truths by blowing a raspberry. Former child actor Mickey Rooney was Lear 's first choice to play Archie, but Rooney declined the offer because of the strong potential for controversy, and in Rooney 's opinion, a poor chance for success. Scott Brady, formerly of the Western series Shotgun Slade, also declined the role of Archie Bunker, but appeared four times on the series in 1976 in the role of Joe Foley. O'Connor appears in all but seven episodes of the series ' run.
who played the father in all in the family
Carroll O'Connor