Meet The Memorable Cast Of The Classic Sitcom "227"

The 227 sitcom cast refers to the ensemble of actors and actresses who starred in the American sitcom "227." The show aired on NBC from 1985 to 1990 and starred Marla Gibbs, Hal Williams, Alaina Reed, Jackee Harry, and Countess Vaughn. The show followed the lives of the staff and residents of a low-income apartment building in Washington, D.C.

The 227 sitcom cast was notable for its groundbreaking portrayal of African American life. The show was one of the first to feature an all-Black cast and to address social issues such as racism, poverty, and unemployment. The show was also praised for its humor and its strong female characters.

The 227 sitcom cast has been credited with helping to pave the way for other successful African American sitcoms, such as "The Cosby Show" and "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air." The show's cast has also been recognized for their individual achievements. Marla Gibbs has won two Emmy Awards for her work on the show, and Hal Williams has been nominated for an Emmy Award.

227 sitcom cast

The 227 sitcom cast was a groundbreaking group of actors and actresses who helped to change the face of television. The show was one of the first to feature an all-Black cast and to address social issues such as racism, poverty, and unemployment. The cast's chemistry and comedic timing made the show a hit with audiences, and it remains one of the most popular sitcoms of all time.

• Marla Gibbs
• Hal Williams
• Alaina Reed
• Jackee Harry
• Countess Vaughn
• Helen Martin
• Kia Goodwin
• Bentley Kyle Evans

Each member of the 227 sitcom cast brought their own unique talents to the show. Marla Gibbs played the role of Mary Jenkins, the wise-cracking matriarch of the family. Hal Williams played the role of Lester Jenkins, Mary's long-suffering husband. Alaina Reed played the role of Rose Holloway, the gossipy neighbor. Jackee Harry played the role of Sandra Clark, the sassy single mother. Countess Vaughn played the role of Kimberly Harris, the precocious youngest child. Helen Martin played the role of Pearl Shay, the building's eccentric landlady. Kia Goodwin played the role of Brenda Jenkins, Lester and Mary's adopted daughter. Bentley Kyle Evans played the role of Calvin Jenkins, Lester and Mary's son.

The 227 sitcom cast was a groundbreaking group of actors and actresses who helped to change the face of television. Their work on the show helped to pave the way for other successful African American sitcoms, such as "The Cosby Show" and "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air." The cast's chemistry and comedic timing made the show a hit with audiences, and it remains one of the most popular sitcoms of all time.

1. Marla Gibbs

Marla Gibbs is an American actress, comedian, and writer. She is best known for her role as Florence Johnston on The Jeffersons and as Mary Jenkins on 227. Gibbs has been nominated for 11 Emmy Awards, winning two for her work on The Jeffersons. She has also received a Golden Globe Award and a NAACP Image Award.

Gibbs's work on 227 helped to break down racial barriers on television. The show was one of the first to feature an all-Black cast and to address social issues such as racism, poverty, and unemployment. Gibbs's character, Mary Jenkins, was a strong and independent woman who was not afraid to speak her mind. She was a role model for many African American women and helped to change the way that Black women were portrayed on television.

Gibbs's contributions to television are significant. She is a talented actress and comedian who has helped to pave the way for other African American actors and actresses. Her work on 227 is a testament to her talent and her commitment to social justice.

2. Hal Williams

Hal Williams is an American actor, director, and producer. He is best known for his role as Lester Jenkins on the NBC sitcom 227. Williams has also appeared in numerous other television shows and films, including The Mod Squad, Sanford and Son, and The Wire.

• Acting
  

  Williams is a talented actor who has brought his unique comedic and dramatic skills to a wide range of roles. On 227, he played the role of Lester Jenkins, the long-suffering husband of Marla Gibbs' character, Mary Jenkins. Williams's portrayal of Lester was both hilarious and heartwarming, and he helped to make the show a success.

• Directing
  

  In addition to his acting work, Williams has also directed several episodes of television. He directed six episodes of 227, as well as episodes of other shows such as The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and Martin.

• Producing
  

  Williams has also produced several television shows and films. He was a producer on 227, as well as the shows Martin and The Hughleys. Williams's producing work has helped to create opportunities for other African American actors and actresses.

• Activism
  

  Williams is also a vocal activist for social justice. He has spoken out against racism and discrimination, and he has worked to improve the lives of African Americans. In 2007, Williams was awarded the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series for his work on 227.

Hal Williams is a multi-talented actor, director, producer, and activist. His work on 227 helped to break down racial barriers on television, and he has continued to use his platform to speak out for social justice.

3. Alaina Reed

Alaina Reed was an American actress best known for her role as Rose Holloway on the NBC sitcom 227. Reed was a talented actress who brought her unique comedic skills to the role of Rose, a gossipy neighbor who was always getting into trouble. Reed's work on 227 helped to break down racial barriers on television and paved the way for other African American actresses. Also, Reed's work on the show helped to make Rose a beloved character, and she remains one of the most popular sitcom characters of all time.

• Early life and career
  

  Alaina Reed was born in New York City in 1921. She began her acting career in the early 1950s, appearing in small roles in films and television shows. In 1985, she was cast as Rose Holloway on 227. The show was a hit, and Reed quickly became one of the most popular actresses on television.

• Role on 227
  

  Rose Holloway was a gossipy neighbor who was always getting into trouble. She was also a kind and caring person, and she always had a good heart. Reed's portrayal of Rose was both hilarious and heartwarming, and she helped to make the character one of the most beloved sitcom characters of all time.

• Legacy
  

  Alaina Reed died in 2009 at the age of 88. She left behind a legacy of laughter and love. Her work on 227 helped to break down racial barriers on television and paved the way for other African American actresses. She will always be remembered as one of the most popular sitcom characters of all time.

Alaina Reed was a talented actress who brought her unique comedic skills to the role of Rose Holloway on 227. Her work on the show helped to break down racial barriers on television and paved the way for other African American actresses. Reed's legacy will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for years to come.

4. Jackee Harry

Jackee Harry is an American actress, comedian, and television director best known for her role as Sandra Clark on the NBC sitcom 227. Harry has also appeared in numerous other television shows and films, including Sister, Sister, and The Proud Family. She has won two Emmy Awards for her work on 227 and has been nominated for several other awards.

• Role in 227
  

  Harry played the role of Sandra Clark, a sassy single mother, on 227. Sandra was a popular character with viewers and was known for her quick wit and sharp tongue. Harry's portrayal of Sandra helped to make 227 one of the most popular sitcoms of the 1980s.

• Directing career
  

  In addition to her acting work, Harry has also directed several episodes of television. She has directed episodes of 227, Sister, Sister, and The Proud Family. Harry's directing work has helped to create opportunities for other African American actors and actresses.

• Awards and recognition
  

  Harry has won two Emmy Awards for her work on 227. She has also been nominated for several other awards, including a Golden Globe Award and a NAACP Image Award. Harry's awards and recognition are a testament to her talent and her contributions to the entertainment industry.

• Legacy
  

  Jackee Harry is a multi-talented actress, comedian, and director. Her work on 227 helped to break down racial barriers on television and paved the way for other African American actors and actresses. Harry's legacy will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for years to come.

Jackee Harry's contributions to the entertainment industry are significant. She is a talented actress, comedian, and director who has helped to break down racial barriers and create opportunities for other African American actors and actresses. Her work on 227 is a testament to her talent and her commitment to social justice.

5. Countess Vaughn

Countess Vaughn is an American actress, singer, and television personality best known for her role as Kimberly Harris on the NBC sitcom 227. Vaughn was a child actress when she joined the cast of 227 in 1989, and she quickly became a fan favorite. She played the role of Kimberly for four seasons, until the show ended in 1990.

• Role on 227
  

  Vaughn played the role of Kimberly Harris, the precocious youngest child of Lester and Mary Jenkins. Kimberly was a bright and inquisitive child who was always getting into trouble. Vaughn's portrayal of Kimberly was both hilarious and heartwarming, and she helped to make the character one of the most popular sitcom characters of the 1980s.

• Breakthrough role
  

  227 was Vaughn's breakthrough role. The show was a hit, and Vaughn quickly became a household name. Her work on the show helped to pave the way for other African American child actresses, and she inspired a generation of young viewers.

• Continued success
  

  After 227 ended, Vaughn continued to act in television and film. She has appeared in numerous shows and movies, including Moesha, The Parkers, and The Proud Family. Vaughn has also released several albums and singles as a singer.

• Legacy
  

  Countess Vaughn is a talented actress and singer who has been entertaining audiences for over three decades. Her work on 227 helped to break down racial barriers on television and paved the way for other African American actresses. Vaughn's legacy will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for years to come.

Countess Vaughn's contributions to the entertainment industry are significant. She is a talented actress and singer who has helped to break down racial barriers and create opportunities for other African American actors and actresses. Her work on 227 is a testament to her talent and her commitment to social justice.

6. Helen Martin

Helen Martin was an American actress best known for her role as Pearl Shay on the NBC sitcom 227. Martin was a talented actress who brought her unique comedic skills to the role of Pearl, the building's eccentric landlady. Martin's work on 227 helped to break down racial barriers on television and paved the way for other African American actresses.

Martin was born in Mississippi in 1926. She began her acting career in the early 1950s, appearing in small roles in films and television shows. In 1985, she was cast as Pearl Shay on 227. The show was a hit, and Martin quickly became one of the most popular actresses on television.

Pearl Shay was a kind-hearted but eccentric landlady who was always getting into trouble. Martin's portrayal of Pearl was both hilarious and heartwarming, and she helped to make the character one of the most beloved sitcom characters of all time.

Martin's work on 227 helped to break down racial barriers on television. She was one of the first African American actresses to play a lead role in a sitcom, and her work helped to pave the way for other African American actresses. Martin's legacy will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for years to come.

7. Kia Goodwin

Kia Goodwin is an American actress, singer, and dancer best known for her role as Brenda Jenkins on the NBC sitcom "227." Goodwin joined the cast of "227" in 1989, playing the adopted daughter of Lester and Mary Jenkins. Brenda was a bright and ambitious young woman who was always trying to prove herself. Goodwin's portrayal of Brenda was both heartwarming and humorous, and she quickly became a fan favorite.

• Acting career
  

  Goodwin's role on "227" was her breakout role. She went on to appear in numerous other television shows and films, including "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," "Moesha," and "The Parkers." Goodwin has also had a successful career as a voice actress, providing voices for characters in animated films and television shows such as "The Proud Family" and "Kim Possible."

• Singing career
  

  In addition to her acting career, Goodwin is also a talented singer. She has released several albums and singles, and she has toured extensively throughout the United States and Europe. Goodwin's music is often described as a mix of R&B, soul, and pop.

• Dancing career
  

  Goodwin is also a skilled dancer. She has performed in several dance productions, and she has taught dance classes at various studios throughout the United States. Goodwin's dance style is often described as a mix of jazz, modern, and hip-hop.

• Other ventures
  

  In addition to her work in the entertainment industry, Goodwin is also a successful businesswoman. She is the founder and CEO of her own production company, and she has also launched a line of clothing and accessories. Goodwin is also a philanthropist, and she is involved in several charitable organizations.

Kia Goodwin is a multi-talented artist who has achieved success in a variety of fields. Her work on "227" helped to break down racial barriers on television, and she has continued to use her platform to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.

8. Bentley Kyle Evans

Bentley Kyle Evans is an American actor, comedian, and writer best known for his role as Calvin Jenkins on the NBC sitcom "227." Evans was a talented actor who brought his unique comedic skills to the role of Calvin, the son of Lester and Mary Jenkins. Evans' work on "227" helped to break down racial barriers on television and paved the way for other African American actors.

• Acting career
  

  Evans' role on "227" was his breakout role. He went on to appear in numerous other television shows and films, including "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," "Moesha," and "The Parkers." Evans has also had a successful career as a voice actor, providing voices for characters in animated films and television shows such as "The Proud Family" and "Kim Possible."

• Comedy career
  

  In addition to his acting career, Evans is also a talented comedian. He has performed stand-up comedy at clubs and colleges throughout the United States. Evans' comedy routines often draw on his experiences as an African American man growing up in the United States.

• Writing career
  

  Evans is also a talented writer. He has written several books, including a memoir and a children's book. Evans' writing is often praised for its humor and its insights into the African American experience.

• Other ventures
  

  In addition to his work in the entertainment industry, Evans is also a successful businessman. He is the founder and CEO of his own production company, and he has also launched a line of clothing and accessories. Evans is also a philanthropist, and he is involved in several charitable organizations.

Bentley Kyle Evans is a multi-talented artist who has achieved success in a variety of fields. His work on "227" helped to break down racial barriers on television, and he has continued to use his platform to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.

FAQs on "227 Sitcom Cast"

This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about the cast of the popular sitcom "227." It offers comprehensive information to address common concerns and misconceptions, and it aims to provide a deeper understanding of the show's groundbreaking impact and legacy.

Question 1: Who were the main cast members of "227"?

The main cast of "227" included Marla Gibbs as Mary Jenkins, Hal Williams as Lester Jenkins, Alaina Reed as Rose Holloway, Jackee Harry as Sandra Clark, and Countess Vaughn as Kimberly Harris. These talented actors brought the characters to life and contributed to the show's success.

Question 2: What was the significance of "227"?

"227" holds historical significance as one of the first sitcoms to feature an all-Black cast. It broke down racial barriers on television and provided a positive representation of African American life and culture. The show tackled important social issues and offered a unique perspective that resonated with audiences.

Question 3: What impact did the cast have on the entertainment industry?

The cast of "227" paved the way for greater diversity and representation in television. Their success inspired and motivated other African American actors and creators to pursue careers in the entertainment industry. The show's legacy continues to influence and shape the landscape of television today.

Question 4: What were some of the challenges faced by the cast?

As pioneers in the industry, the cast of "227" faced challenges and discrimination. They had to navigate stereotypes and limited opportunities for Black actors at the time. However, their determination and talent allowed them to overcome these obstacles and achieve success.

Question 5: What are the lasting contributions of the "227" cast?

The cast of "227" left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry and society as a whole. They promoted positive images of African Americans, challenged societal norms, and inspired generations of viewers. Their work continues to resonate and educate audiences about the importance of diversity and inclusion.

Question 6: How is the legacy of the "227" cast preserved?

The legacy of the "227" cast is preserved through various channels. The show remains popular in syndication, allowing new audiences to discover its groundbreaking work. Additionally, the cast members continue to be celebrated and honored for their contributions. Their impact is also documented in books, articles, and exhibitions, ensuring their legacy continues to inspire and inform future generations.

In conclusion, the cast of "227" holds a significant place in television history and has made invaluable contributions to the entertainment industry and society. Their legacy continues to inspire and promote diversity, inclusion, and the power of representation.

Transition to the next article section: This concludes the FAQ section on the "227 Sitcom Cast." For further exploration, please refer to the related articles and resources provided below.

Tips on appreciating the "227 Sitcom Cast"

The "227 Sitcom Cast" holds a significant place in television history for its groundbreaking work in representation and social commentary. Here are a few tips to fully appreciate their contributions:

Tip 1: Watch the show with a critical lens

Pay attention to the characters' interactions, the storylines, and the overall message of the show. Consider how it challenges societal norms and offers a unique perspective on African American life and culture.

Tip 2: Research the historical context

Understand the social and political climate during the time the show aired. This will provide a deeper appreciation for the cast's courage and determination in breaking down racial barriers.

Tip 3: Appreciate the individual performances

Each cast member brought their unique talents and charisma to the show. Pay attention to their comedic timing, emotional depth, and ability to connect with the audience.

Tip 4: Recognize the show's impact on popular culture

The success of "227" paved the way for greater diversity and representation in television. Its influence can be seen in subsequent sitcoms and the overall entertainment landscape.

Tip 5: Explore the cast's other work

Many cast members went on to successful careers in film, television, and theater. Exploring their other work provides a broader understanding of their range and talents.

Tip 6: Support organizations promoting diversity

Show your appreciation for the "227 Sitcom Cast" by supporting organizations that promote diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry and beyond.

Tip 7: Share your appreciation

Spread the word about the importance and legacy of the "227 Sitcom Cast." Share your thoughts and recommendations on social media, in conversations, and through online reviews.

Tip 8: Be a positive role model

The "227 Sitcom Cast" stood as role models for generations. Honor their legacy by promoting inclusivity, challenging stereotypes, and inspiring others to make a difference.

By following these tips, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the groundbreaking work of the "227 Sitcom Cast" and their lasting impact on television and society.

Key Takeaways:

• The "227 Sitcom Cast" made significant contributions to television and society.
• Understanding the historical context enhances appreciation for their work.
• Their individual performances and collective impact deserve recognition.
• Supporting diversity and inclusion efforts honors their legacy.

Conclusion:

The "227 Sitcom Cast" will forever be remembered for their groundbreaking work in breaking down racial barriers and promoting positive representation. By embracing these tips, we can continue to celebrate their legacy and its enduring impact on the entertainment industry and beyond.

Conclusion

The "227 sitcom cast" made an indelible mark on the entertainment industry and American society. Through their groundbreaking work, they shattered racial barriers, provided positive representation, and challenged societal norms. Their collective talent, determination, and commitment to social justice continue to inspire and educate audiences to this day.

As we reflect on their legacy, we recognize the importance of their contributions and the need to continue fostering diversity, inclusion, and equitable opportunities in the entertainment industry and beyond. The "227 sitcom cast" stands as a reminder that representation matters, that diverse voices deserve to be heard, and that laughter can be a powerful tool for social change.