Television icon Marla Gibbs continues to captivate audiences with her timeless charm and wit. At 93 years old, she’s still sharing remarkable stories from her groundbreaking career. On November 13, 2024, Gibbs graced the stage at the Wilmington Public Library in Delaware for an exclusive event, “A Conversation with Marla Gibbs.” The event, moderated by author and journalist Rhonda Crowder, brought together an enthusiastic audience eager to hear firsthand tales from the beloved star of The Jeffersons and 227.
A Pioneer in Black Entertainment
Gibbs’ career has spanned decades, earning her a special place in the history of television. Born in Chicago and raised on the South Side, she initially set her sights on a career in music. But it was her move to Los Angeles and her eventual breakthrough role as Florence Johnston—the no-nonsense maid on The Jeffersons—that would cement her legacy in TV history. She reminisced about those early days, sharing candid anecdotes about her dynamic working relationship with Sherman Hemsley, who portrayed the unforgettable George Jefferson.
One humorous moment she recalled involved a rehearsal with Hemsley, where he confessed he hadn’t memorized his lines. “I told him, ‘Your mind took a picture of it. Let’s go through the motions, say something that makes sense—and I’ll follow you,’” Gibbs laughed. This moment of spontaneity turned into one of the most iconic comedic pairings in TV history.
Balancing Two Careers: United Airlines and The Jeffersons
Gibbs’ journey to stardom was anything but conventional. In an inspiring turn of events, she continued working as a reservations agent for United Airlines while appearing on The Jeffersons. “I’d been with United for 10 years when I got the role,” Gibbs shared, adding that she wasn’t ready to quit her job for the show. Her airline perks gave her free travel, and she wasn’t willing to give that up until she knew her TV career was on solid ground. Eventually, producers had to assure United that she was still employed!
Her dual career paths were a testament to her work ethic and the excitement of being on the cutting edge of television during an era of cultural change.
Creating 227: A New Chapter in Black TV
After the success of The Jeffersons, Gibbs didn’t rest on her laurels. She starred in and helped shape the direction of the hit sitcom 227, which reflected the diverse and vibrant lives of Black urban Americans in Washington, D.C. As both a star and creative consultant on the show, Gibbs was instrumental in casting Regina King in her first television role. She also advocated for Jackée Harry to play the role of Sandra Clark—a decision that would go on to change TV history.
“From the moment I saw Jackée read, I knew she was Sandra,” Gibbs recalled. Jackée’s portrayal of Sandra won her an Emmy Award—the first-ever Emmy for an African-American actress in a supporting role in a sitcom, a historic win that underscored the show’s trailblazing influence.
A Legacy of Representation
At the Wilmington event, Gibbs’ powerful legacy was acknowledged when Wilmington Library Director Jamar Rahming read a proclamation from Delaware’s governor, honoring her immense contributions to both television and the representation of Black Americans in the entertainment industry. For those in the audience, it was an unforgettable evening filled with gratitude for a trailblazer who broke barriers and brought complex, powerful Black characters to life.
Fans of all ages lined up after the event to meet Gibbs, eager to capture a moment with the woman who helped define TV comedy in the ‘70s and ‘80s.
The Future is Bright
At 93, Gibbs shows no signs of slowing down. She continues to be active in the entertainment world, with exciting upcoming projects on the horizon. One rumored collaboration involves hip-hop legend Snoop Dogg, who has frequently praised Gibbs, saying, “Why do we honor Betty White, but don’t honor Marla Gibbs?” A fair question, given her pioneering role in both The Jeffersons and 227.
Marla Gibbs’ career has earned her multiple NAACP Image Awards and five Primetime Emmy nominations for her role in The Jeffersons. She remains a powerful voice in Hollywood, inspiring new generations of actors and audiences. Her commitment to telling authentic Black stories continues to resonate, as her influence in the industry remains as strong as ever.
The Timeless Theme of Family
Reflecting on her career and the impact of her shows, Gibbs reminded the audience of the timeless value of family and community in both The Jeffersons and 227. As the theme song from 227 famously states:
“There’s no place like home, with your family around you, you’re never alone. When you know that you’re loved, you don’t need to roam. ‘Cause there ain’t no place like home.”
For Marla Gibbs, that sentiment rings true, both on and off the screen, as she continues to show us all the power of family, laughter, and love.
Gibbs’ journey is a testament to the impact one person can have in shaping culture, breaking down barriers, and creating spaces where Black voices can thrive. Her untold stories from The Jeffersons and 227 are a legacy that will continue to inspire for generations to come.
