Played by Carroll O'Connor
Archie Bunker was created as a satire. As this 2014 New Yorker article points out, a message aired prior to the show's premiere in 1971 warning viewers that the show sought "to throw a humorous spotlight on our frailties, prejudices and concerns" to point out "just how absurd they are."
But as this same article highlights, Bunker — who was portrayed as a bigot — ended up transcending satire. Rather than laughing at him, fans found themselves relating to him at times. The show was a hit and lasted 9 seasons.