Who is Marla Gibbs?
Marla Gibbs, born Margaret Theresa Bradley on June 14, 1931, built a remarkable career as an American actress, singer, comedian, writer, and television producer spanning seven decades. She gained widespread recognition for playing Florence Johnston, the sharp-witted maid on The Jeffersons (1975–1985), a role that earned her five Primetime Emmy nominations.
Gibbs also starred as Mary Jenkins in 227 (1985–1990) and co-produced the series, showcasing her talents behind the scenes as well. She appeared in films such as The Meteor Man (1993) and Madea’s Witness Protection (2012), while her impactful work earned her multiple NAACP Image Awards, securing her status as a pioneer in Black television.
Marla Gibbs’ age and birthday
Gibbs was born on June 14, 1931, in Chicago, Illinois, United States. Her zodiac sign is Gemini.
Marla Gibbs’ height and weight
Gibbs is 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 meters) tall and weighs around 59 kilograms (130 pounds). She has dark brown eyes and dark brown hair.
Marla Gibbs educational background
Gibbs completed her secondary education at Wendell Phillips Academy High School. She then continued her studies at Peters Business School in Detroit, Michigan.
Marla Gibbs dating life, spouse and children
Gibbs married Jordan Gibbs in 1956, and they divorced in 1973 after 18 years together. They had three children: Angela Elayne Gibbs, Dorian Gibbs, and Jordan Gibbs Jr. Angela pursued a career as an actress, writer, and director like her mother. Throughout her career, Marla’s family has stayed mostly private but actively supported her, including celebrating her Hollywood Walk of Fame star in 2021.
Marla Gibbs nationality and ethnicity
Gibbs is an American with African American roots. She was born Margaret Theresa Bradley on June 14, 1931, in Chicago, Illinois. Her father, Douglas Bradley, had Creole heritage, while her mother, Ophelia Birdie, descended from Haitian ancestry.
Marla Gibbs parents and siblings
Gibbs was born to Douglas Bradley and Ophelia Birdie Kemp. Her father, Douglas, was a self-taught mechanic with Creole roots who owned an ice company, while her mother, Ophelia, was a Haitian-descended businesswoman. Gibbs was the middle child among three sisters, including Susie Garrett, who became an actress famous for playing Betty Johnson on the sitcom Punky Brewster.
Marla Gibbs career
Gibbs has built a career that spans over seven decades, establishing herself as one of the most enduring figures in American television. She gained widespread fame for her role as Florence Johnston on The Jeffersons (1975–1985), where her sharp-witted portrayal of the maid earned her five Primetime Emmy nominations.
Afterward, Gibbs starred as Mary Jenkins in 227 (1985–1990), where she also co-produced the series and performed the theme song. She expanded her work to film, appearing in titles like The Meteor Man (1993), Madea’s Witness Protection (2012), and Lemon (2017).
Beyond acting, Gibbs has won seven NAACP Image Awards and actively advocated for better Black representation in Hollywood. She continues to influence the industry with recent roles in Grey’s Anatomy (2022) and Days of Our Lives (2021), proving her lasting presence and impact.
Marla Gibbs’ net worth
She has a net worth of $4 million.
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