Marla Gibbs is a celebrated actress, singer, comedian, and television producer who has left an indelible mark on Hollywood. Best known for her role as Florence Johnston on the hit sitcom The Jeffersons and Mary Jenkins on 227, Marla Gibbs has enjoyed a long and successful career spanning over five decades. Fans are often curious about her age, family life, and contributions to the entertainment industry. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Marla Gibbs, including her age, family life, net worth, and more.
Quick Bio
| Full Name | Margaret Theresa Bradley |
|---|---|
| Stage Name | Marla Gibbs |
| Date of Birth | June 14, 1931 |
| Place of Birth | Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Age | 93 years old (as of 2024) |
| Profession | Actress, Singer, Comedian, Producer |
| Years Active | 1965 – Present |
| Net Worth | $4 million (as of 2023) |
| Known For | The Jeffersons, 227 |
| Children | 3 (Angela, Dorian, and Joseph) |
Early Life and Background
Marla Gibbs was born Margaret Theresa Bradley on June 14, 1931, in Chicago, Illinois. She grew up in a working-class family and experienced the challenges of the Great Depression during her childhood. Gibbs attended elementary and high school in Chicago, where she developed a love for performing arts.
Before pursuing a career in entertainment, Marla worked as a receptionist and a reservations agent for United Airlines. It wasn’t until her early 30s that she decided to take a leap of faith and follow her passion for acting.
Her early life was shaped by perseverance and determination, and these traits helped her navigate the challenges of Hollywood.
Age and Physical Appearance
As of 2024, Marla Gibbs is 93 years old. Despite her age, she remains a vibrant and active individual who continues to make occasional appearances in television and film.
Marla Gibbs is known for her elegant style and charismatic presence. Standing at approximately 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) tall, her radiant smile and youthful energy have been a constant throughout her career.
Education
Marla Gibbs attended Wendell Phillips Academy High School in Chicago, graduating in 1949. After high school, she pursued further education at Peters Business School, where she studied business administration.
Though her education wasn’t directly related to the entertainment industry, her business acumen played a role in her later ventures, including her work as a producer and her ownership of a jazz club.
Net Worth
Marla Gibbs has an estimated net worth of $4 million as of 2023. Her wealth primarily comes from her acting career, which includes iconic roles in sitcoms, movies, and guest appearances.
In addition to her work in television and film, Gibbs has also earned income through her ventures as a producer and business owner. For instance, she owned a jazz club called Marla’s Memory Lane Jazz and Supper Club in Los Angeles during the 1980s.
Despite her success, Gibbs has remained humble and has consistently prioritized family, community, and the joy of entertaining others over material wealth.
Who Is Marla Gibbs?
Marla Gibbs is an award-winning actress best known for her comedic timing and dynamic roles in hit television shows like The Jeffersons and 227. Her portrayal of Florence Johnston in The Jeffersons earned her widespread acclaim, including five Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series.
In addition to her television work, Gibbs has appeared in numerous movies and stage productions. She is also a talented singer, having released several jazz albums over the years.
Marla Gibbs is celebrated not only for her contributions to entertainment but also for her resilience and longevity in an industry known for its challenges.
Her Father
Marla Gibbs’ father was Douglas Bradley, who worked as a mechanic. Although not much is publicly known about him, he played an important role in shaping Marla’s early life.
Her Mother
Marla Gibbs’ mother, Ophelia Birdie Bradley, worked as a homemaker. Marla has often credited her mother with instilling strong values of perseverance, kindness, and determination in her.
Children
Marla Gibbs is the proud mother of three children: Angela Gibbs, Dorian Gibbs, and Joseph Gibbs.
- Angela Gibbs: Angela followed in her mother’s footsteps and became an actress, writer, and director. She has appeared in numerous television shows and films and is known for her talent both in front of and behind the camera.
- Dorian Gibbs: Dorian has largely stayed out of the limelight but is known to be supportive of his mother’s career.
- Joseph Gibbs: Like Dorian, Joseph has maintained a private life, away from the public eye.
Marla has always emphasized the importance of family, often speaking about how her children and grandchildren have been a source of pride and joy in her life.
Movies
Marla Gibbs has had a successful career in film, appearing in both comedic and dramatic roles. Some notable movies include:
- The Visit (2000)
- The Brothers (2001)
- Madea’s Witness Protection (2012)
- El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie (2019)
Though her film roles are memorable, Marla is best known for her work on television, where she truly made her mark as a comedic powerhouse.
Current Life
As of 2024, Marla Gibbs is living a peaceful and fulfilling life. Though she is no longer as active in Hollywood as she once was, she occasionally appears in projects and interviews, delighting fans with her humor and wisdom.
Marla continues to inspire audiences with her grace, talent, and resilience. She remains an icon in the entertainment world and is celebrated for her contributions to African-American representation in television and film.
Conclusion
Marla Gibbs is a trailblazing actress and cultural icon whose career has spanned over five decades. At 93 years old, she remains a beloved figure in Hollywood, best known for her roles on The Jeffersons and 227.
Her journey from a working-class upbringing in Chicago to becoming a household name is a testament to her hard work, talent, and determination. Beyond her professional achievements, Marla’s dedication to her family and community has solidified her legacy as a role model and inspiration to many.
As fans continue to celebrate her work and life, Marla Gibbs stands as a shining example of grace, resilience, and talent.
1. How old is Marla Gibbs?
Marla Gibbs is 93 years old as of 2024. She was born on June 14, 1931.
2. What is Marla Gibb’s net worth?
Marla Gibbs has an estimated net worth of $4 million as of 2023.
3. Who are Marla Gibb’s children?
Marla Gibbs has three children: Angela Gibbs, Dorian Gibbs, and Joseph Gibbs.
4. What is Marla Gibbs best known for?
Marla Gibbs is best known for her roles as Florence Johnston on The Jeffersons and Mary Jenkins on 227.
