New Now: Why Marla Gibbs Didn’t Go to Sherman Hemsley’s Funeral

# Why Marla Gibbs Didn’t Attend Sherman Hemsley’s Funeral

Marla Gibbs, the iconic Florence Johnston from *The Jeffersons*, was notably absent from co-star Sherman Hemsley’s funeral in 2012. For years, fans speculated about bitterness or fallout. But Gibbs has revealed the truth: a bitter estate dispute delayed the service, making attendance impossible. Here’s the untold story behind one of TV’s greatest duos.

*The Jeffersons*, a 1975 spin-off from *All in the Family*, followed the upwardly mobile Jefferson family. Sherman Hemsley starred as George Jefferson, the brash businessman, while Gibbs played the sassy housekeeper. The show tackled race and class with humor, becoming a hit and peaking at #1 in ratings.

Hemsley, born in 1938 in Philadelphia, overcame a troubled youth—gang involvement and dropping out of school—to join the military and pursue acting. He trained at the Philadelphia Academy of Dramatic Arts and worked postal jobs while honing his craft in New York. Joining the Negro Ensemble Company, he launched his career, impressing Norman Lear in the play *Pearly Victorious*. Lear cast him as George, initially off-screen due to commitments, then as a foil to Archie Bunker.

Gibbs, meanwhile, balanced her United Airlines job with acting. She kept her reservations role for years, even after Florence became a fan favorite, using flight perks to commute.

The show faced criticism for stereotypes, like George’s “pimp walk,” but it was intentional to soften his success for audiences. Hemsley resisted racial slurs by flubbing lines, forcing rewrites. His bigotry stemmed from systemic racism, contrasting Archie’s prejudice.

Post-*Jeffersons*, Hemsley starred in *Amen* and pursued music, releasing jazz albums. Gibbs had a short-lived spin-off, *Checking In*, before returning.

Hemsley’s final years were in El Paso with partners Kenny Johnston and Flora Inington. Diagnosed with aggressive lung cancer in 2012, he refused chemo, dying at 74. Despite his health focus—juicing and fasting—he succumbed quickly.

The funeral was delayed three months due to a will dispute. Hemsley named Inington his sole beneficiary, but half-brother Richard Thornton challenged it, claiming diminished capacity. Thornton and cousin Michael George Wells fought for burial in Pennsylvania and royalties. Courts ruled for Inington, allowing a military-style service.

Gibbs, saddened, didn’t attend due to the conflict. She respected Hemsley’s will and mourned privately, frustrated by the lack of closure. The delay robbed loved ones of timely grief.

Hemsley, never married, left a legacy: Emmy/Golden Globe noms, Hall of Fame induction. Gibbs honors him as a friend and trailblazer.

In 2019, a live recreation on *Jimmy Kimmel Live* featured Jamie Foxx as George, Wanda Sykes as Weezy, and Jennifer Hudson singing the theme.

Hemsley’s impact endures, but his passing was marred by drama. Gibbs’ absence? A casualty of legal battles, not ill will.