Marla Gibbs

Early Life and Education

Marla Gibbs, born Margaret Theresa Bradley on June 14, 1931, in Chicago, Illinois, was raised in a family with a rich entrepreneurial spirit. Her father, Douglas Bradley, was a self-taught mechanic and ice company owner, while her mother, Ophelia Birdie Bradley, was a businesswoman who owned a theater and a hotel. After attending Corpus Christi Elementary School, Gibbs graduated from Wendell Phillips Academy High School in 1949 after a series of school transfers due to family circumstances.

Career

Gibbs moved to Los Angeles in 1963 to recover from an ulcer and began her career as a reservations agent for United Airlines. She soon ventured into acting, starting with local black theater and blaxploitation films in the early 1970s. Her breakthrough came in 1975 when she was cast as Florence Johnston, the maid on the CBS sitcom "The Jeffersons." Balancing her acting career with her job at United Airlines, Gibbs eventually left her airline position as the show gained popularity. Her portrayal earned her five Primetime Emmy nominations and a Golden Globe nomination. She later starred in a spin-off series, "Checking In," and continued to act in various projects, including a notable role alongside Natalie Cole in the television film "Lily in Winter."

Personal Life

Marla Gibbs was married to her high school sweetheart, Jordan Gibbs, from 1955 until their divorce in 1973, and they had three children together. Throughout her career, she has remained active in the entertainment community, attending events such as the Leimert Park Village Book Fair in 2014 to honor Maya Angelou and Ruby Dee. In 2016, she paid her respects at Natalie Cole's funeral, showcasing her connections within the industry. Gibbs continues to share her experiences and stories from her nearly 50-year career in television, reflecting on her friendships and the impact of her roles.