Marla Gibbs, whose iconic roles as Florence Johnston on The Jeffersons and Mary Jenkins on 227 have left an indelible mark on television, isn’t one to let age define her. The 90-year-old actress, now a great-grandmother, has spent decades in the entertainment industry, with a career that spans stage, film, television, and even music. Despite the years of work behind her, Gibbs refuses to be bound by conventional notions of aging, opting to tell people she’s “30” instead.
In a recent interview, Gibbs revealed her philosophy on age. When asked how old she is, she quipped, “I’m 30. Born in ’31. You do the math and don’t tell me.” For Gibbs, age is just a number, and she lives by the mantra that it’s “never too late.” This perspective is not just a playful response; it’s a philosophy she applies to every aspect of her life. She believes that when people start identifying with their age, they start to limit themselves, mentally and physically. “People start saying ‘I’m old,’ and they start acting old, and next thing you know, they’re gone,” she said. “My thing is that it’s never too late if you’re still breathing.”
Her youthful attitude is mirrored in her ongoing work. Despite a career that has spanned decades, Gibbs continues to act, appearing on Scandal and even in indie films like Grantham and Rose. She recently guest-starred on Hot in Cleveland and remains an active presence on social media. “I’m still vertical and still on this side of the grass,” she laughs. “And I’m still 30, so there’s no excuse. I can do anything I want to do.”
Gibbs’ career began in the 1970s when she moved to Los Angeles and worked various jobs, including a part-time gig with United Airlines. At the same time, she was building her acting career, training in community workshops in Watts and performing in local theaters. She eventually landed the role of Florence Johnston on The Jeffersons, a role that was initially meant to be a one-time guest appearance but turned into an 11-season arc. Gibbs is beloved by fans for her portrayal of the witty and sassy maid, and she recalls how the show never felt like it was just “a Black show.” Instead, The Jeffersons was a reflection of society, with a diverse cast and guest stars from all backgrounds.
In addition to her TV success, Gibbs went on to executive produce 227, the popular sitcom she starred in throughout the late ’80s. Although she wasn’t credited as an executive producer, she had a hands-on role in writing episodes, editing, and even casting. One episode she wrote, “Rich Kid,” focused on the dangers of drug dealing, illustrating the show’s commitment to tackling serious issues in a comedic format.
Even with all her success, Gibbs remains humble and grounded, always acknowledging the impact of her mentors and the importance of community. She credits much of her acting success to her training in local workshops in Watts, where she learned to hone her craft before landing any major roles. She says she didn’t need to study in New York or Hollywood to become a great actress, but instead worked with passionate instructors who taught her the art of performance in her own neighborhood.
Gibbs continues to be a force in Hollywood, defying the limitations that age often imposes. With her spirited refusal to age mentally or physically, her refusal to tell her age is more than just a joke—it’s a way of life. For her, it’s about embracing the present, staying active, and continuing to dream and work, no matter the number on your birth certificate. “I don’t know what 83 is,” Gibbs says, “because I’m still 30, and as long as I’m breathing, I’ll keep doing what I love.”
