How Old Is Marla Gibbs? The 94-Year-Old Icon's Incredible New Chapter And Memoir
As of today, December 18, 2025, the legendary actress, comedian, singer, and television producer Marla Gibbs is a vibrant 94 years old. Born Margaret Theresa Bradley on June 14, 1931, the five-time Emmy Award nominee continues to be a powerful and active force in Hollywood, proving that age is truly just a number. Her enduring career, which began relatively late in life, serves as an inspiration, and her latest projects show no sign of her slowing down.
The question "How old is Marla Gibbs?" is often asked by fans who are astonished by her energy and continued presence in film and television. Her recent work, including a highly anticipated memoir and a role in a new comedy series, cements her status as a timeless icon whose legacy extends far beyond her most famous roles as the sharp-witted maid Florence Johnston on The Jeffersons and the community matriarch Mary Jenkins on 227.
Marla Gibbs: A Complete Biography and Profile
Marla Gibbs, whose career spans over five decades, has become one of the most recognizable and beloved faces in American television history. Her journey from a Detroit-based switchboard operator to a celebrated actress is a compelling story of perseverance and talent. Her full profile is a testament to a life dedicated to the arts and entrepreneurship.
- Full Name: Margaret Theresa Bradley (later adopted the professional name Marla Gibbs)
- Date of Birth: June 14, 1931
- Current Age (as of December 2025): 94 years old
- Birthplace: Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
- Occupations: Actress, Comedian, Singer, Writer, Television Producer, Entrepreneur
- Years Active: 1973–Present
- Most Famous Roles: Florence Johnston on The Jeffersons (1975–1985) and Mary Jenkins on 227 (1985–1990)
- Key Nominations and Awards: Five-time Primetime Emmy Award nominee for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series (for The Jeffersons), NAACP Image Award winner, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (received in 2021)
- Family: Mother of three children, including actress Angela Gibbs. She is also a grandmother and great-grandmother.
- Entrepreneurial Ventures: Owned and operated the Marla's Supper Club, a popular jazz club in South Central Los Angeles, during the 1980s and 1990s.
Marla Gibbs's career is a powerful example of a "late bloomer" success story. She didn't land her breakout role until her 40s, a detail that makes her forthcoming memoir title, It's Never Too Late, particularly poignant and fitting. Her work ethic and dedication have made her a role model for aspiring actors of all ages.
The Unforgettable Legacy: From Florence Johnston to Mary Jenkins
The cornerstone of Marla Gibbs's iconic status rests on her two major sitcom roles: Florence Johnston and Mary Jenkins. These characters, though both grounded in working-class life, showcased Gibbs's remarkable range from comedic timing to dramatic depth.
Florence Johnston: The Sharp-Witted Maid on The Jeffersons
In 1975, Marla Gibbs was cast in the role that would define her early career: Florence Johnston, the sarcastic and deeply moral housekeeper for the affluent, yet often arrogant, George Jefferson. The chemistry between Gibbs and Sherman Hemsley (George Jefferson) was electric.
Florence served as the moral compass of the show, often delivering cutting, yet hilarious, one-liners that put George in his place. Her character was groundbreaking, representing a strong, independent Black woman who was not afraid to speak her mind to her employer. It was this role that earned her five consecutive Emmy Award nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, solidifying her place as a comedic powerhouse.
Mary Jenkins: The Community Matriarch on 227
Following the conclusion of The Jeffersons in 1985, Gibbs immediately transitioned to her own starring vehicle, 227. This time, she was the lead, playing Mary Jenkins, a sharp-tongued, gossipy, but ultimately loving housewife and community leader in an apartment building in Washington D.C.
Gibbs was not only the star of 227 but also a producer on the show, giving her significant creative control. The series, which ran for five seasons, explored the lives of a Black middle-class community and further demonstrated Gibbs's ability to anchor a successful television show. The show was a cultural phenomenon and featured the early careers of future stars like Jackée Harry and Regina King.
It's Never Too Late: New Projects and Honors at 94
At 94, Marla Gibbs is far from retired. Her recent and forthcoming projects are a testament to her enduring passion for her craft and her desire to share her incredible life story with the world. Her continued activity is a major reason why the question of "how old is Marla Gibbs" remains so popular—people are simply amazed by her vitality.
The Memoir: It's Never Too Late
One of the most exciting updates for fans is the news of her forthcoming memoir, titled It's Never Too Late. The book is expected to delve into her journey, detailing her transition from a job at United Airlines to becoming a television superstar in her 40s. This narrative perfectly aligns with the book's title, offering a powerful message of hope and reinvention to readers of all ages. The memoir is currently slated for release in 2026.
A New Generation of Sitcoms: Not Dead Yet
Marla Gibbs is also bringing her comedic talent to a new generation of viewers. She is set to appear in the second season of the ABC comedy series Not Dead Yet. In a heartwarming collaboration, she will be joining her own daughter, Angela Gibbs, on the show. This appearance demonstrates her commitment to staying relevant and working on contemporary, quality television projects. Her presence in the series is highly anticipated by both new and longtime fans.
Honors and Recognitions in 2025
The year 2025 is shaping up to be a year of well-deserved recognition for the veteran actress. Marla Gibbs is scheduled to be honored not once, but twice, for her monumental contributions to entertainment and culture. These honors, which include being celebrated at the 18th Annual ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Awards, are a continuation of the accolades she has received in recent years, including her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2021. These events will serve as a celebration of her long and impactful career, further cementing her legacy as a true American icon.
The Undeniable Impact of an Enduring Icon
Marla Gibbs's life and career serve as a powerful blueprint for success, resilience, and the pursuit of passion regardless of age. She is more than just Florence or Mary; she is a producer, a singer, a comedian, and a successful entrepreneur who has consistently championed strong, relatable Black female characters on screen. Her ability to remain active, relevant, and in demand at 94 is a rare and remarkable feat in the entertainment industry.
The latest updates—from her forthcoming memoir, It's Never Too Late, to her role alongside her daughter in Not Dead Yet—prove that Marla Gibbs's story is still being written. She is a living legend whose career milestones, including five Emmy nominations and an NAACP Image Award, continue to inspire new generations of performers and fans alike. Her legacy is one of laughter, strength, and the timeless message that it is, indeed, never too late to achieve your dreams.
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