Marla Gibbs is a legendary American actress whose career spans decades, making her a cherished figure in television and film. Born in Chicago, Illinois, on June 14, 1931, she became a household name with unforgettable roles in iconic TV shows like The Jeffersons and 227. Marla’s remarkable acting talent and undeniable charisma earned her numerous awards and nominations, including NAACP Image Awards and Primetime Emmy nominations.
Apart from acting, she also ventured into television production, showcasing her versatility. As of 2025, her net worth stands at an impressive $4 million, a testament to her long-lasting success in the entertainment industry.
Marla Gibbs Biography: A Legacy in Entertainment
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Marla Vanessa Gibbs |
| Date of Birth | June 14, 1931 |
| Age | 94 years old (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Height | 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 meters) |
| Weight | 59 kg (130 lbs) |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Net Worth (2025) | $4 million |
| Notable TV Shows | The Jeffersons, 227, Days of Our Lives, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, ER, Scandal |
| Famous Film Roles | Madea’s Witness Protection, El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie, Spirit Halloween: The Movie |
| Awards & Nominations | NAACP Image Award, Primetime Emmy Award nomination, Golden Globe nomination |
| Husband | Jordan Gibbs (ex-husband) |
| Children | Angela Elayne Gibbs (daughter), Dorian Gibbs (son), Joseph Gibbs (son) |
| @officialmarlagibbs | |
| @marlagibbs4real | |
| TikTok | @marlagibbs4real |
| Business Ventures | Former owner of Marla’s Memory Lane Jazz and Supper Club (1981-1999) |
| Social Impact | Supporter of Crossroads Arts Academy (a theater school) |
Early Life and Family Background
Born Marla Vanessa Gibbs on June 14, 1931, in Chicago, Illinois, Marla grew up in the vibrant Bronzeville neighborhood. Raised in a family with deep African-American roots, Marla was influenced early on by her strong heritage. Her mother, Ophelia Birdie, and father, Douglas Bradley, both played significant roles in shaping her values and personality.
After her father’s passing, Marla and her family moved to Detroit, Michigan, where she spent much of her formative years. It was during this time that Marla developed a deep love for the arts. Her sister, Susie Garrett, was also an influential figure in her life, helping her cultivate her passion for performing. Marla later moved to Los Angeles, California, in 1963 to pursue her acting dreams.
Marla Gibbs Education
Marla’s educational background helped prepare her for her future career in acting. She attended Peters Business School in Detroit, where she gained invaluable skills. However, her heart was always set on the arts. Marla’s big move to Los Angeles was a pivotal moment in her journey, where she began to hone her craft in various theaters and acting classes.
Marla Gibbs Age: How Old is She in 2025?
As of 2025, Marla Gibbs is 93 years old. Despite her age, she remains active in the industry, making guest appearances on television shows and continuing to inspire fans worldwide. Her longevity in the entertainment industry speaks volumes about her talent, work ethic, and enduring popularity.
Marla Gibbs Family: Personal Life and Relationships
Marla Gibbs’ Husband
Throughout her life, Marla has been married to Jordan Gibbs, though details about their marriage remain somewhat private. The couple had a strong bond, with Jordan being an important figure in Marla’s personal life. However, they eventually divorced, and Marla has since focused on raising her children and continuing her successful career.
Marla Gibbs’ Children: Daughter and Sons
Marla Gibbs is the proud mother of Angela Elayne Gibbs, her daughter, and Dorian Gibbs and Joseph Gibbs, her sons. Angela Elayne Gibbs, a talented actress and filmmaker in her own right, has followed in her mother’s footsteps. Marla has always been a supportive and loving mother, often speaking about the importance of family and the joy her children bring her.
Marla Gibbs’ Grandmother and Step-Father
Marla’s family history is rich and influential, with figures like her grandmother Hattie Sims and stepfather Charles Cady shaping her upbringing. These strong family figures instilled in her the values of hard work, perseverance, and the power of believing in yourself.
Marla Gibbs Career: The Rise to Fame
Early Career and Breakthrough Role
Marla Gibbs’ breakthrough came when she was cast as Florence Johnston on the hit TV show The Jeffersons (1975-1985). Her portrayal of the witty, no-nonsense maid in the Jefferson family’s New York apartment made her an instant star. The role became one of the most beloved characters in television history and set the stage for her future in Hollywood.
In addition to The Jeffersons, Marla starred in the hit show 227 (1985-1990), which she also produced. The show was a critical and commercial success, and it helped solidify her place as a TV legend. Marla’s work in these roles earned her several NAACP Image Awards and nominations, cementing her status as one of the finest actresses in the industry.
Television Guest Appearances and Later Roles
Beyond her major roles in The Jeffersons and 227, Marla Gibbs continued to be a sought-after actress for guest appearances and supporting roles. Some of her notable TV guest appearances include:
- Days of Our Lives (as Olivia Price)
- The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air
- ER
- Scandal
- Hot in Cleveland
- American Horror Story: Hotel
- This Is Us
- The Last O.G.
- Grey’s Anatomy
- Partners in Rhyme
- History of the World: Part II
In these roles, Marla showcased her incredible versatility, bringing depth and charm to every character she portrayed.
Film Career
Marla Gibbs’ film career is just as impressive as her television work. Some of her most notable films include:
- The First Family (2012)
- Madea’s Witness Protection (2012)
- El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie (2019)
- Spirit Halloween: The Movie (2022)
- Yours, Mine, and Ours (2005)
- Sweet Jesus, Preacherman (1975)
- The Meteor Man (1993)
- The Brothers (2001)
Her ability to transition from television to film with such ease speaks to her extensive range as an actress.
Marla Gibbs Net Worth 2025
What is Marla Gibbs’ Net Worth in 2025?
As of 2025, Marla Gibbs’ net worth is estimated to be $4 million. This impressive figure is a result of her decades-long career in acting, television production, and various other ventures in the entertainment industry.
Her earnings come from:
- Her television career, including her iconic roles on The Jeffersons and 227.
- Her film roles in both major and independent productions.
- Her time as a television producer, particularly for 227.
- Other business ventures, including her ownership of Marla’s Memory Lane Jazz and Supper Club from 1981 to 1999.
How Did Marla Gibbs Build Her Wealth?
Marla’s wealth stems from both her on-screen work and her off-screen business ventures. As a producer and actress, she amassed wealth through lucrative roles, while her ownership of a jazz club in Los Angeles added another layer of financial success. She is also involved in various philanthropic efforts, particularly within the Crossroads Arts Academy, a theater school dedicated to nurturing young talent.
Marla Gibbs’ Awards and Nominations
Over the years, Marla has earned numerous awards and nominations, celebrating her exceptional contributions to the entertainment industry. Some of her most prestigious honors include:
- NAACP Image Awards: She won the award for Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series for her role in 227.
- Primetime Emmy Award: She received a nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series.
- Golden Globe Award: Nominated for Best Supporting Actress.
- TV Land Award: Won Favorite Made-for-TV Maid for her role in The Jeffersons.
These accolades highlight Marla’s immense talent and the impact she’s had on television and film.
Marla Gibbs Social Media Presence
Marla Gibbs maintains an active presence on social media, where she shares updates about her career and personal life. You can find her on platforms like:
- Twitter: @marlagibbs4real
- TikTok: @marlagibbs4real
- Instagram: @officialmarlagibbs
- Facebook: Marla Gibbs Official
These platforms allow fans to engage with Marla directly and keep up with her latest projects.
frequently asked questions (fAQs)
How old is Marla Gibbs and what is her net worth?
Marla Gibbs is 93 years old as of 2025. Her net worth is estimated to be $4 million, accumulated through her decades-long career in television, film, and production.
q: Who is Marla Gibbs’ spouse?
Marla Gibbs was married to Jordan Gibbs, though they divorced after several years. She has kept her personal life relatively private, focusing on her children and career.
q: Where is Marla Gibbs now?
Marla Gibbs continues to be active in the entertainment industry, making guest appearances on TV shows and maintaining a presence on social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram.
q: Did Marla Gibbs work for United Airlines?
Yes, before embarking on her acting career, she worked as a reservations agent for United Airlines, which helped her support herself while pursuing her passion for acting.
q: What is Marla Gibbs’ most famous role?
Marla Gibbs is most famous for her portrayal of Florence Johnston on the iconic TV show The Jeffersons (1975-1985). Her role as the witty, sarcastic maid made her a beloved figure in television history.
q: Has Marla Gibbs won any major awards?
Yes, she has won several NAACP Image Awards and received Primetime Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for her work. She also received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, honoring her contributions to television.
Conclusion
Marla Gibbs has carved an impressive legacy in Hollywood through her remarkable talent, hard work, and passion for the arts. From her iconic roles in The Jeffersons and 227 to her contributions as a producer and entrepreneur, her impact on television and film remains undeniable. With a net worth of $4 million in 2025, Marla continues to inspire new generations of fans and performers. Her remarkable journey from Chicago to Hollywood is a testament to her resilience and dedication to her craft.
Justin Morris is a professional blogger known for creating engaging, insightful content. With years of experience, he shares valuable advice across various topics, offering readers informative and well-researched articles.
