How Old is Marla Gibbs: All You Need To Know About Family Life
Legendary, iconic, trailblazing — these are just a few words used to describe the incomparable Marla Gibbs. A multi-talented actress, singer, comedian, and producer, she has become a household name, particularly for her roles on classic TV shows like The Jeffersons and 227. Over the decades, Marla has not only captured hearts with her powerful performances but also inspired generations with her resilience and strength.
Quick Bio: Who Is Marla Gibbs?
| Full Name | Margaret Theresa Bradley |
|---|---|
| Stage Name | Marla Gibbs |
| Date of Birth | June 14, 1931 |
| Place of Birth | Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Actress, Singer, Comedian, Producer |
| Famous For | Florence Johnston on The Jeffersons |
| Marital Status | Divorced (ex-husband: Jordan Gibbs) |
| Children | 3 (including daughter Angela Gibbs) |
| Years Active | 1973–present |
| Current Age | 93 years old (as of 2024) |
Early Life and Background
Born as Margaret Theresa Bradley on June 14, 1931, in Chicago, Illinois, Marla Gibbs grew up during a time when opportunities for Black women in entertainment were incredibly limited. She faced numerous challenges in her early life, including family struggles and racial discrimination.
Marla attended elementary and high school in Chicago. Her early life was marked by a deep love for music, community, and theater, though she didn’t pursue acting until later in life. Before becoming an actress, Marla worked as a receptionist and also held a job as a United Airlines reservation agent. This humble beginning shaped her work ethic and grounded personality — traits that would later make her one of America’s most beloved TV stars.
Age and Physical Appearance
How Old is Marla Gibbs?
As of 2024, Marla Gibbs is 93 years old. She was born on June 14, 1931, which makes her a proud Gemini.
Despite her age, Marla continues to defy expectations, frequently appearing at public events and even making guest appearances on television shows well into her 90s. Her energy, charisma, and sense of humor remain intact — further proving that age is just a number.
Physical Appearance
Marla is about 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 meters) tall, with a dignified presence and timeless elegance. Over the years, her signature style has included:
- Elegant short hair
- Classic fashion choices
- A warm, radiant smile
Even in her 90s, she maintains her poise and sharp wit, qualities that have endeared her to fans across generations.
Education
Marla Gibbs attended Wendell Phillips Academy High School in Chicago, where she first developed an interest in performing arts. Later, she pursued studies at Los Angeles City College.
While she didn’t formally train as an actress during her early years, Marla’s natural talent and passion for storytelling eventually led her to enroll in acting classes at the Mafundi Institute and other local theater groups in Los Angeles.
Her educational journey is a testament to the idea that it’s never too late to follow your dreams. Marla was in her 40s when she got her big break — proving that dedication and persistence pay off.
His Father
Marla Gibbs’ father was Douglas Bradley, though not much is publicly known about his life. What is known is that Marla’s parents separated during her early childhood. Following their separation, she moved with her mother to Detroit, Michigan.
Despite limited information about Douglas Bradley’s role in her life, Marla has spoken about the influence her family had on her resilience and moral values. Her upbringing instilled in her a deep sense of community and self-belief that would become the foundation of her successful career.
His Mother
Marla’s mother, Ophelia Kemp, played a significant role in raising her. Ophelia was a strong and determined woman who worked hard to provide for her children. She emphasized independence, faith, and hard work, all values that Marla carried into adulthood.
Ophelia’s influence on Marla’s character is evident in the grounded, authentic roles Marla often portrayed — particularly her iconic role as Florence Johnston on The Jeffersons. The strength and wit she brought to the character were no doubt influenced by her real-life experiences growing up under her mother’s guidance.
Children
Marla Gibbs has three children from her marriage to Jordan Gibbs, whom she later divorced.
1. Angela Gibbs
Marla’s most well-known child is Angela Gibbs, an accomplished actress, director, writer, and acting coach. Angela has appeared in shows like SWAT, Black Jesus, and On My Block. She also teaches acting and is deeply respected in Hollywood for her dedication to storytelling and uplifting young talent.
Angela and Marla have even worked together on various projects, showcasing a beautiful mother-daughter synergy on and off-screen.
2. Dorian Gibbs
Marla’s son Dorian also had a stint in the entertainment world. He appeared on 227, the sitcom Marla starred in and produced, playing Clarence, the boyfriend of Jackée Harry’s character, Sandra. However, Dorian later chose to live a more private life.
3. Joseph Gibbs
Very little is known about her third child, Joseph Gibbs, as he has always preferred to stay out of the spotlight. Marla has respected his privacy, and no major public information is available about his personal or professional life.
Marla has several grandchildren as well, and she often speaks with pride about her family, celebrating their accomplishments whenever she gets the chance.
Current Life
At 93 years old, Marla Gibbs is a true living legend. She continues to act, inspire, and engage with fans, proving that passion has no expiration date. Some highlights from her recent years include:
- Hollywood Walk of Fame: In 2021, Marla received a long-overdue star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, honoring her decades-long contribution to film and television.
- Television Appearances: She recently appeared in hit shows like Grey’s Anatomy, Young Sheldon, and Days of Our Lives.
- Public Speaking & Awards: Marla is frequently invited to speak at award shows, tributes, and community events, sharing wisdom from her rich life journey.
Beyond entertainment, Marla remains active in her church and community outreach programs, and she advocates for arts education and support for Black creators.
Conclusion
In answering the question — How old is Marla Gibbs? — we’ve uncovered not just a number, but a legacy that spans over nine decades. At 93 years old, Marla is more than just an actress; she is a symbol of grit, grace, and greatness.
From her early days in Chicago and Detroit to her starring roles in some of America’s most beloved sitcoms, Marla Gibbs has never stopped evolving. Her family life, marked by deep love and a legacy of creativity, mirrors the strength and resilience she brings to every role she plays.
Whether you know her as Florence from The Jeffersons, Mary Jenkins from 227, or simply as an icon in African-American television history, one thing is clear: Marla Gibbs is a national treasure
FAQ
1. How old is Marla Gibbs?
Marla Gibbs is 93 years old, born on June 14, 1931.
2. What is Marla Gibbs best known for?
She is best known for her roles as Florence Johnston in The Jeffersons and Mary Jenkins in 227.
3. Did Marla Gibbs have children?
Yes, she has three children, including actress Angela Gibbs.
4. Is Marla Gibbs still alive?
Yes, as of 2024, Marla Gibbs is alive and active in the entertainment industry at 93 years old.
