Norman Lear: Sitcom writer and producer dies aged 101

Sitcom writer and producer Norman Lear has died of natural causes at his home in Los Angeles aged 101, a spokesperson for his family has confirmed.

Lear was best known for his trailblazing sitcoms in the 1970s and 80s, including Sanford and Son and The Jeffersons.

The celebrated US writer was a five-time Emmy Award winner and a member of the Television Academy Hall of Fame.

In a statement his family said knowing Lear had "been the greatest of gifts".

They added: "Thank you for the moving outpouring of love and support in honour of our wonderful husband, father, and grandfather.

"Norman lived a life of creativity, tenacity, and empathy. He deeply loved our country and spent a lifetime helping to preserve its founding ideals of justice and equality for all."