Norman Lear Celebrates 100th Birthday With ABC Special This Fall

Norman Lear is celebrating his 100th birthday on Wednesday, and to commemorate the occasion, ABC will be airing a primetime special this fall titled Norman Lear: 100 Years of Music and Laughter.

The two-hour special will honor Lear's legacy as a producer, activist, and philanthropist, Variety reports. The special will also feature a number of celebrity guests, to be announced at a later date.

"I've always believed music and laughter have added time to my life," Lear said in a statement. "I've seen a lot throughout my 100 years, but I would've never imagined America having a front-row seat to my birthday celebration."

"Norman's illustrious career is revered by so many, and we are honored to be celebrating his legacy with this special night of entertainment," added Craig Erwich, president of Hulu Originals and ABC Entertainment. "We have been lucky to work with Norman on a number of projects over the years, and it's only fitting that his centennial birthday be marked by the biggest names in Hollywood raising a glass to toast, and perhaps gently roast, the television icon."

Norman Lear: 100 Years of Music and Laughter airs Thursday, September 22 at 9:00 PM ET on ABC.

Deena ElGenaidi's writing has been featured in Nylon, MTV News, Insider, The AV Club, and more. You can follow her on Twitter @deenaelg.