Prolific writer and producer Norman Lear has died at the age of 101, his family has announced.

During his career, Lear worked on scores of sitcoms - many groundbreaking - including Sanford and Son, The Jeffersons, All In The Family, Maude and Diff'rent Strokes.

The star's publicist confirmed that he died at his Los Angeles home on Tuesday of natural causes.

"Thank you for the moving outpouring of love and support in honor of our wonderful husband, father, and grandfather," read a statement from his family.

"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.

"Knowing and loving him has been the greatest of gifts. We ask for your understanding as we mourn privately in celebration of this remarkable human being."

Lear is survived by wife Lyn, six children and four grandchildren.