Behind The Scenes: 227 Sitcom Cast's Memorable Journey

The 1980s were a vibrant time for television, with sitcoms capturing the hearts of audiences across the country. Among these beloved shows was "227," a series that brought laughter and life lessons to viewers through its relatable characters and engaging storylines. The "227 sitcom cast" was a talented ensemble that breathed life into the characters, creating a show that remains cherished by fans to this day. With its diverse cast and focus on community and family, "227" offered a unique glimpse into the lives of African-American families in Washington D.C., leaving a lasting impact on television history.

As we delve into the world of "227," it's essential to recognize the talent and charisma of the cast members who made the show a success. From Marla Gibbs' portrayal of the sharp-witted Mary Jenkins to Jackée Harry's unforgettable role as the vivacious Sandra Clark, each actor brought their own flair and personality to their character. The chemistry among the 227 sitcom cast was undeniable, and it was this synergy that contributed to the show's enduring popularity. With a mix of humor, heart, and social commentary, "227" tackled issues that were both timely and timeless, making it a staple of 1980s television.

In this comprehensive exploration of the 227 sitcom cast, we'll take a closer look at the biographies of the main cast members, delve into their personal lives, and examine the impact of their work on the show and beyond. We'll also answer some of the most frequently asked questions about "227" and its cast, providing a well-rounded understanding of this iconic sitcom. So, sit back and enjoy a nostalgic journey through the lives of the talented individuals who made "227" a beloved classic that continues to resonate with audiences today.

Table of Contents

• Biography of Marla Gibbs
• Personal Details of Marla Gibbs
• Biography of Jackée Harry
• Personal Details of Jackée Harry
• Biography of Hal Williams
• Personal Details of Hal Williams
• Biography of Regina King
• Personal Details of Regina King
• How did "227" impact African-American representation on TV?
• What made "227" a unique sitcom of its time?
• Behind the Scenes Facts about 227
• Where are the 227 Sitcom Cast Members Now?
• What lessons did "227" teach its audience?
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Biography of Marla Gibbs

Marla Gibbs, born Margaret Theresa Bradley on June 14, 1931, in Chicago, Illinois, is an iconic American actress and singer. Best known for her role as Mary Jenkins on the hit sitcom "227," Gibbs has enjoyed a prolific career in the entertainment industry, spanning over five decades. Her journey to stardom began after she moved to Los Angeles in the early 1970s. Before landing her breakthrough role on "The Jeffersons," Gibbs worked as a receptionist and a reservations agent for United Airlines. Her portrayal of Florence Johnston on "The Jeffersons" earned her critical acclaim and multiple award nominations.

Gibbs' transition to "227" allowed her to showcase her comedic talents and become a household name. Her character, Mary Jenkins, was the heart and soul of the show, providing wisdom and wit to the residents of the apartment building. Gibbs' performance was widely praised for its authenticity and relatability, resonating with audiences and critics alike. Beyond her work on television, Gibbs has appeared in numerous films and stage productions, further cementing her status as a versatile performer.

Personal Details of Marla Gibbs

Full Name	Margaret Theresa Bradley
Date of Birth	June 14, 1931
Place of Birth	Chicago, Illinois, USA
Occupation	Actress, Singer
Years Active	1973–present

Biography of Jackée Harry

Jackée Harry, born Jacqueline Yvonne Harry on August 14, 1956, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is an accomplished actress and television personality. She is best known for her role as Sandra Clark on "227," where her character's glamorous lifestyle and flirtatious nature provided comic relief and added depth to the show. Harry's performance on "227" earned her an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, making her the first African-American woman to win in that category.

Before rising to fame on "227," Harry had already established herself as a talented actress with roles in theater and television. Her dynamic presence and comedic timing made her a standout performer, capturing the hearts of audiences and critics alike. In addition to her work on "227," Harry has appeared in numerous television shows and films, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Her contributions to the entertainment industry have been recognized through various awards and accolades, solidifying her legacy as a trailblazer for African-American women in Hollywood.

Personal Details of Jackée Harry

Full Name	Jacqueline Yvonne Harry
Date of Birth	August 14, 1956
Place of Birth	Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
Occupation	Actress, Television Personality
Years Active	1978–present

Biography of Hal Williams

Hal Williams, born Harold Williams on December 14, 1938, in Columbus, Ohio, is a respected actor known for his work in television and film. Williams gained widespread recognition for his role as Lester Jenkins on "227," where he portrayed the loving and supportive husband of Mary Jenkins. His character's strong sense of family and community resonated with viewers, making him a beloved figure on the show.

Prior to his success on "227," Williams had already built an impressive acting career with roles in various television series and movies. He is perhaps best known for his role as Officer Smith in the critically acclaimed film "Private Benjamin." Williams' talent and dedication to his craft have earned him a reputation as a versatile and reliable performer. Throughout his career, he has continued to work in the entertainment industry, appearing in a variety of projects that highlight his range and skill.

Personal Details of Hal Williams

Full Name	Harold Williams
Date of Birth	December 14, 1938
Place of Birth	Columbus, Ohio, USA
Occupation	Actor
Years Active	1969–present

Biography of Regina King

Regina King, born on January 15, 1971, in Los Angeles, California, is a highly acclaimed actress and director. She began her career as a child actress, gaining fame for her role as Brenda Jenkins on "227." King's portrayal of the intelligent and headstrong Brenda showcased her natural talent and set the stage for her future success in Hollywood.

After "227," King continued to build her career with a variety of roles in television and film. Her performances in movies such as "Jerry Maguire," "Ray," and "If Beale Street Could Talk" have garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. In recent years, King has expanded her talents to directing, earning accolades for her work on both television series and feature films. Her contributions to the entertainment industry have cemented her status as one of the most respected and influential figures in Hollywood.

Personal Details of Regina King

Full Name	Regina Rene King
Date of Birth	January 15, 1971
Place of Birth	Los Angeles, California, USA
Occupation	Actress, Director
Years Active	1985–present

How did "227" impact African-American representation on TV?

The sitcom "227" played a significant role in advancing African-American representation on television. During a time when the portrayal of African-American families on TV was limited, "227" provided a nuanced and authentic depiction of a middle-class African-American family living in an apartment building in Washington D.C. The show tackled important social issues, including race, gender, and class, in a manner that was both entertaining and thought-provoking.

By showcasing a diverse cast and addressing relevant topics, "227" helped to broaden the scope of African-American representation on television. The show highlighted the strength and resilience of African-American communities, emphasizing themes of family, friendship, and community support. Through its storytelling and character development, "227" challenged stereotypes and provided audiences with a more comprehensive view of African-American life.

What made "227" a unique sitcom of its time?

"227" stood out as a unique sitcom of its time for several reasons. The show was centered around a predominantly African-American cast, which was relatively uncommon in the 1980s. This focus on African-American voices and experiences allowed "227" to explore themes and storylines that were often overlooked by other sitcoms of the era.

The show's strength lay in its ability to balance humor with social commentary, providing a platform for discussing important issues while still entertaining audiences. The relatable characters and engaging storylines resonated with viewers, offering a fresh perspective on family and community dynamics. Additionally, the chemistry among the cast members added depth to the show, making "227" a beloved classic that continues to be appreciated by audiences today.

Behind the Scenes Facts about 227

Fans of "227" may be interested to learn about some fascinating behind-the-scenes facts about the show. For instance, Marla Gibbs, who played Mary Jenkins, was instrumental in bringing the show to life. After reading a play titled "227" by Christine Houston, Gibbs was inspired to adapt it into a television series. Her passion and dedication to the project helped launch the show, which went on to become a hit on NBC.

Another interesting tidbit is that the show's theme song, "There's No Place Like Home," was performed by Marla Gibbs herself. The catchy tune became synonymous with the show and is fondly remembered by fans. Additionally, the character of Sandra Clark, played by Jackée Harry, was initially intended to be a minor character. However, Harry's standout performance and comedic timing quickly made Sandra a fan favorite, leading to an expanded role in the series.

Where are the 227 Sitcom Cast Members Now?

Many fans of "227" often wonder where the beloved cast members are today. Marla Gibbs, now in her 90s, continues to act and make appearances in television and film. Her enduring passion for entertainment has kept her active in the industry, and she remains a respected figure in Hollywood.

Jackée Harry has also maintained a successful career, appearing in various television shows and movies. She continues to be a prominent figure in the entertainment world, known for her charisma and comedic talent. Hal Williams has enjoyed a long and fruitful career in acting, with numerous television and film credits to his name. He remains active in the industry, often taking on roles that showcase his versatility and skill.

Regina King has become one of the most acclaimed actresses and directors in Hollywood. Her impressive body of work has earned her numerous awards and accolades, and she continues to be a trailblazer for African-American women in the entertainment industry. King's dedication to her craft and her commitment to telling diverse stories have made her a highly respected figure in film and television.

What lessons did "227" teach its audience?

Throughout its run, "227" imparted valuable lessons to its audience through its engaging storylines and relatable characters. One of the central themes of the show was the importance of family and community. The characters on "227" often relied on each other for support, demonstrating the strength that comes from working together and looking out for one another.

The show also addressed social issues such as race, gender, and class, prompting viewers to think critically about these topics. By tackling these issues with humor and heart, "227" encouraged audiences to engage in meaningful conversations and reflect on their own beliefs and values. Additionally, the show celebrated the diversity and resilience of African-American communities, inspiring viewers to embrace their own identities and heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What was the premise of "227"?

The sitcom "227" revolved around the lives of the residents of an apartment building in Washington D.C. The show focused on the Jenkins family, with Mary Jenkins as the central character, and explored the dynamics of family, friendship, and community.

2. Who were the main characters in "227"?

The main characters in "227" included Mary Jenkins (played by Marla Gibbs), Lester Jenkins (played by Hal Williams), Sandra Clark (played by Jackée Harry), and Brenda Jenkins (played by Regina King), among others.

3. How many seasons did "227" run?

"227" aired for five seasons from 1985 to 1990, with a total of 116 episodes.

4. Did any cast members of "227" win awards for their roles?

Yes, Jackée Harry won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for her role as Sandra Clark on "227."

5. Where can I watch episodes of "227"?

Episodes of "227" can be found on various streaming platforms and digital retailers. Check services like Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, or other similar platforms for availability.

6. What impact did "227" have on television history?

"227" played a significant role in advancing African-American representation on television, providing a nuanced depiction of African-American family life and addressing important social issues with humor and heart.

Conclusion

The "227 sitcom cast" brought to life a show that was not only entertaining but also impactful in its portrayal of African-American family life and community. Through its engaging characters and storylines, "227" tackled social issues with humor and authenticity, leaving a lasting legacy on television history. The talented ensemble cast, including Marla Gibbs, Jackée Harry, Hal Williams, and Regina King, enriched the show with their performances, creating a beloved classic that continues to resonate with audiences today. As we reflect on the journey of the 227 sitcom cast, we celebrate their contributions to the world of entertainment and the enduring impact of "227" on the landscape of television.