Marla Gibbs wants to make a Hollywood comeback. Her announcement comes as streaming platforms show increasing interest in veteran talent, with several classic shows being revived for modern audiences.
The 93-year-old actress is best known for having starred as Florence Johnston on the classic sitcom ‘The Jeffersons’ in the mid-1970s, and as she accepted the American Black Film Festival Legacy Award on Sunday (16.02.25), insisted that it is never “too late” for a career revival. Her role on ‘The Jeffersons’ earned her five consecutive Emmy Award nominations from 1981 to 1985.
“I’m also excited to be honored today. To be honored is wonderful. Especially while you’re still here on the planet,” she said. Throughout her career, Gibbs has received numerous accolades, including seven NAACP Image Award nominations.
“I had some ladies come to me and they said, ‘Marla, I’ve always wanted to act. Do you think it’s too late?’ I said, ‘Are you still breathing?’ They said, ‘Yes’…It’s not too late. As long as you’re here and you’re still breathing.
“I’ve been so blessed.”
Over the course of her decades on screen, Marla has also starred in the 1980s television series ‘227’ and films such as ‘The Visit’ and ‘Madea’s Witness Protection’. Her role as Mary Jenkins on ‘227’ ran for five seasons, with the show consistently ranking among NBC’s top-rated comedies.
In 2023, she appeared in ‘A Snowy Day in Oakland’ and also had a guest appearance in the third season premiere of ‘Will Trent’, which aired in early January. Her recent performances have demonstrated her enduring talent and versatility as an actress.
But the actress insisted that despite her lengthy career, she is “ready” for more. Her determination reflects a growing trend in Hollywood of celebrating and featuring veteran actors, with several streaming platforms developing projects specifically for older performers.
“Tonight, I am so happy not only to have my daughter Regina, but my daughter Angela [Gibbs],” she said. Both of her daughters have followed in their mother’s footsteps, with Angela becoming an accomplished actress and producer in her own right.
“And my agents, who have won the award several times as the best agents.
“They know that I am ready to work again. Anybody got any projects?”
“Thank you so much. Everybody who watched the show. I say thank you. I owe you a big bowl of thanks. If you hadn’t watched, I would not be. Since you watched, I am.
“I owe it all to you. I appreciate you so much. Been an honor to be among you all these years.
“Yes, and I’m ready to do some more!”
Gibbs’ career spans over five decades in entertainment, breaking barriers as one of the first African American actresses to have a leading role in a prime-time television series. Her character Florence on ‘The Jeffersons’ appeared in 207 episodes over 11 seasons, making it one of the longest-running roles for an African American actress in television history.
The American Black Film Festival Legacy Award recognizes pioneering artists who have made significant contributions to African American cinema and television. Previous recipients include industry legends such as Sidney Poitier, Ruby Dee, and Cicely Tyson.
The actress’s continued enthusiasm for performing comes at a time when the entertainment industry is experiencing a renaissance in multi-generational storytelling. Streaming platforms and traditional networks are increasingly developing content that showcases talent across all age groups, recognizing the value of experienced performers in connecting with diverse audiences.
Throughout her career, Gibbs has been a vocal advocate for representation in Hollywood, particularly for older actors and actresses of color. Her influence extends beyond her on-screen performances, as she has mentored numerous young actors and continues to inspire new generations of performers.
