Remember 227? That classic sitcom about life in a D.C. apartment building? Good times. But have you ever wondered, "Where are those folks now?"
Mary Jenkins: Marla Gibbs
Marla Gibbs, the queen of 227, played the sassy, always-in-your-business Mary. Honestly, she was the glue holding that whole building together. I think Mary Jenkins was secretly running the show.
Well, Marla Gibbs hasn't stopped working! She's been in everything from The Jeffersons (before 227!) to modern shows like Black-ish and Grey's Anatomy. She's basically a national treasure, and my unpopular opinion? She's funnier than most modern sitcom characters.
Sandra Clark: Jackée Harry
Oh, Sandra Clark! Played by the fabulous Jackée Harry, she was the man-hungry neighbor we all secretly loved. She brought the drama and the laughs, and let's be real, her outfits were iconic.
Jackée Harry is still a force! She's been on shows like Sister, Sister (another classic!) and Days of Our Lives. She's still serving looks and delivering those killer one-liners. We love to see it.
Lester Jenkins: Hal Williams
Hal Williams played Lester Jenkins, Mary's level-headed husband. He was the calm to her storm, and a genuinely good guy. He had the patience of a saint, dealing with Mary and all the building's shenanigans.
Hal Williams has continued acting, appearing in shows like Malcolm in the Middle and Sanford and Son. A steady presence on screen, even if he doesn't always get the spotlight. He's like that reliable friend you can always count on.
Brenda Jenkins: Regina King
Before she was an Oscar-winning director, Regina King was Brenda Jenkins, Mary and Lester's daughter. She was the sweet, smart, and relatively grounded teenager of the bunch. Who knew she'd become a Hollywood powerhouse?
Seriously, Regina King is EVERYTHING. From Boyz n the Hood to Watchmen, she's conquered both acting and directing. Seeing her success makes you feel like you're watching your little sister win big.
Rose Holloway: Alaina Reed-Hall
Alaina Reed-Hall played Rose Holloway, the building's landlady and Pearl's daughter. A kind and caring figure, she brought a gentle energy to the show. Sadly, Alaina Reed-Hall passed away in 2009.
She had a successful career outside of 227, including a role on Sesame Street. She's fondly remembered by fans and colleagues alike. She is missed.
Pearl Shay: Helen Martin
Helen Martin was Pearl Shay, the sassy, gossip-loving senior citizen. She had the best zingers and wasn't afraid to speak her mind. She was basically everyone's favorite grandma (even if she was a little nosy).
Helen Martin continued acting until her death in 2000, appearing in shows like ER and films like Death Becomes Her. She brought joy and laughter to every role she played. Pearl Shay forever!
So, what's the takeaway?
The cast of 227 proved that talent and hard work pay off. They've continued to entertain us, in various ways, for decades. And let's be honest, we could all use a little more 227 in our lives.
Maybe it's time for a reboot? Or at least a marathon viewing session. Because sometimes, all you need is a dose of Mary Jenkins and her building full of characters. Just my two cents!