'Jeffersons' Star Marla Gibbs Got Along with Cast, But Not So Much with '227' Star Jackee: A TV Feud

Photo byClassic TV Preservation Society

Legendary TV star Marla Gibbs is best known for her two hit sitcoms: The Jeffersons (CBS, 1975-1985), and 227 (NBC, 1985-1990). She got along well with Jeffersons co-stars Isabel Sanford and Sherman Hemsley, but not so much with 227 co-star Jackée Harry.

A Closer Look

For Marla Gibbs, portraying the witty, no-bones-about-it housekeeper Florence Johnston on The Jeffersons remains a joyful memory. As Gibbs recently observed, “We were a family. Working with Roxie Roker [d. 1995], who was very close to me, and Isabel Sanford [d. 2012] was great. Sherman Hemsley [d. 2012] was the most giving, wonderful actor.”

Gibbs and Hemsley remained in contact until his death. “Off camera, he would say, ‘I love you, Marla.’ And I’d say, ‘I love you, Sherman,’ ” Gibbs recalled. “We talked about every month. I’m so sorry he left us so soon.”

The 227 Set Was a Different Story

Unfortunately, Marla Gibbs and her experience of working with one particular cast member of 227 was not as satisfying: Jackée Harry.

“Jackée came out wanting to be a star,” Marla observed. “My feeling was that there are no stars, only working and nonworking actresses.”

Happily, the two actresses eventually came to an understanding. As Gibbs concluded, “[Jackée] said I was selfish, but she’s apologized and has been very nice. We’ve done a few things since then and became friends.”