Category: Actor

H.H. Dr. Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe

Posted on by Dr Kamyar Tarigi


H.H. Dr. Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe: The Royal Who Reigns Over North American Runways

Few figures in the world of fashion can merge the charisma of a Hollywood star, the diplomacy of a statesman, and the grace of a royal as seamlessly as H.H. Dr. Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe. A European royal with Danish and German noble lineage and the magnetic presence of a global media personality, the Prince has become the most celebrated fashion show host across North America.

From Los Angeles Fashion Week to Hamptons Fashion Week, from the glittering runways of New York Fashion Week, EPN Fashion Week, and International Heritage Fashion Week at Art Hearts, to the UNGA Week Diplomatic Fashion Gala by Hugues Sanon — Prince Mario-Max stands at the center of the continent’s most glamorous stages. His royal charm, flawless professionalism, and genuine love for the art of couture have made him a living symbol of how elegance transcends time and tradition.

Chapter I: The Los Angeles Fashion Week Legacy — Hollywood Meets Royalty

Los Angeles Fashion Week has always represented the daring, cinematic spirit of American fashion — and with Prince Mario-Max as its star host, it reached new heights of glamour.
Under the glowing lights of LA’s legendary venues, the Prince brought royal poise to a city known for its innovation and dreams. His stage presence combined European refinement with Hollywood magnetism, captivating audiences of designers, stylists, and global influencers.

Each introduction was more than a speech — it was a performance of elegance. The crowd often rose in applause as he greeted designers with the warmth of a seasoned television host and the dignity of a diplomat. In the front rows sat icons from Beverly Hills to Berlin, mesmerized by the royal host who celebrated the diversity of art and fashion with an inclusive, human touch.

As models glided across the runway, Prince Mario-Max’s commentaries transformed each show into a royal experience. “Fashion is the universal language of joy,” he shared from the stage — a quote that soon trended across social media, marking the beginning of his reign as North America’s fashion prince.

Chapter II: Hamptons Fashion Week — Where Seaside Luxury Meets Nobility

The Hamptons, with its breezy elegance and coastal opulence, has long been a haven for art, philanthropy, and high fashion. In 2025, it became the royal runway of H.H. Dr. Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe, whose presence electrified the event.

Amid the sound of waves and champagne toasts, the Prince opened the shows in white and gold couture — a nod to timeless European sophistication. Hosting the Hamptons Fashion Week, he connected effortlessly with designers, models, and guests, blending the relaxed Hamptons charm with the grandeur of royal tradition.

Every designer he introduced felt celebrated — not just for their artistry but for their vision and purpose. The Prince often emphasized sustainability and innovation, inspiring the audience to see fashion as more than luxury — as a message of creativity, ethics, and future consciousness.

When the sun set over the Atlantic, the Hamptons audience stood to applaud a man who had turned fashion into a royal dialogue of cultures and dreams.

Chapter III: New York Fashion Week — The Royal Heart of the Big Apple

At New York Fashion Week, where the world’s eyes turn every September and February, Prince Mario-Max has become a signature highlight. His royal entrances on the red carpets of Spring Studios and Manhattan’s grand venues are nothing short of cinematic.

Wearing sleek designer tuxedos tailored with royal precision, he brings an Old-World aura to the most modern of stages. As host and runway model, he embodies both leadership and artistry — walking between worlds with ease.

The Prince has been featured at shows for renowned labels, engaging the audience with his quick wit, eloquence, and ability to make every designer feel seen. When he takes the microphone, the atmosphere shifts — his deep voice carries stories of heritage, philanthropy, and fashion diplomacy.

The New York media often refer to him as “The People’s Prince of Fashion,” a figure who represents not only style but also sincerity, integrity, and kindness — virtues that elevate him beyond celebrity status to cultural icon.

Chapter IV: EPN Fashion Week — The Royal Pulse of Elegance and Empowerment

EPN Fashion Week, celebrated for merging fashion with empowerment and global culture, found its perfect host in Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe. Here, he brought his international background and humanitarian spirit to the runway, making each introduction a statement of unity.

As lights shimmered across the catwalk, the Prince highlighted not just couture but the human stories behind the designs. He emphasized how fashion gives a voice to diversity, resilience, and identity — messages that resonated deeply with audiences and global media alike.

EPN’s founder praised him as “the ultimate ambassador between fashion, philanthropy, and diplomacy”, and rightly so — because every event he hosts carries the message of peace through creativity.

Chapter V: International Heritage Fashion Week at Art Hearts — Where Cultures Converge

At International Heritage Fashion Week, hosted by Art Hearts Fashion, the Prince’s deep appreciation for cultural heritage became the essence of the evening. With the spotlight on global designers who honor ancestral techniques, Mario-Max opened the show with a heartfelt reflection on heritage as “the fabric that stitches humanity together.”

His ability to merge royal history with modern artistry inspired designers from around the world — from Africa to Europe, from Asia to the Americas. His introductions celebrated not only beauty but also the endurance of tradition through the art of fashion.

As models showcased designs rooted in history, the Prince reminded the audience that every stitch holds memory — and that fashion is, at its best, the living art of remembrance and renewal.

Chapter VI: Runway 7 — The Royal Stride of Innovation and Style

Runway 7 represents innovation, luxury, and speed — qualities mirrored perfectly by Prince Mario-Max’s energetic and magnetic style. Hosting and walking the runway for several top designers, he transformed the event into an elegant theater of modern glamour.

From contemporary streetwear to haute couture, the Prince adapted effortlessly, bridging fashion’s diverse worlds with humor and dignity. Backstage, young models described him as “the kindest professional they’ve ever met,” while designers applauded his punctuality, charisma, and command of the stage.

Each time he walked the runway, the audience erupted — not just for his regal posture but for the warmth behind his smile. Runway 7 became a royal stage where tradition and technology met under his direction.

Chapter VII: Diana Mahrach Couture — The Royal Muse of Modern Femininity

When Prince Mario-Max hosted Diana Mahrach Couture, the event transformed into a love letter to timeless femininity and sculptural elegance. Diana Mahrach’s ethereal designs — worn by stars and socialites alike — found the perfect narrator in the Prince, who introduced her pieces as “stories in silk.”

His collaboration with the couture house became legendary, reflecting both friendship and shared artistic passion. The Prince’s appreciation for detail, craftsmanship, and emotion mirrored Diana’s own philosophy that beauty lies in confidence and kindness.

As the gowns floated down the runway, the Prince’s poetic commentaries elevated each moment into an unforgettable royal dream.

Chapter VIII: Hugues Sanon UNGA Week Diplomatic Fashion Gala — Couture for Peace

Few fashion events carry as profound a mission as the UNGA Week Diplomatic Fashion Gala by Hugues Sanon. Hosted at the height of United Nations General Assembly Week, this gala merges couture with diplomacy — and no one embodies that harmony better than Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe.

Standing beneath the flags of the world, the Prince opened the gala with a speech on peace, art, and international understanding. Wearing a tailored diplomatic tuxedo accented with subtle royal insignia, he reminded the audience that “fashion, like diplomacy, has the power to connect nations.”

Throughout the evening, he introduced designers whose collections symbolized unity and sustainability. The gala’s finale — a standing ovation — confirmed that this royal host had elevated fashion to a global dialogue of hope and harmony.

Chapter IX: A Royal Legacy in Modern Fashion

Prince Mario-Max’s influence reaches far beyond the runway. His royal lineage — tracing back to Princess Feodora of Denmark and the Founding Princes of Schaumburg-Lippe — adds gravitas to every appearance, but it is his personality that truly wins hearts.

He is more than a host; he is a bridge between continents, a living reminder that nobility is not about privilege, but about purpose. His career as a TV host, Bertelsmann author, and philanthropist has earned him recognition as a symbol of global goodwill, while his passion for style places him among fashion’s most admired figures.

In every city he visits — from Los Angeles to Palm Beach, from the Hamptons to New York — audiences remember his grace, humor, and generosity of spirit.

Epilogue: The Crown of Style

As the curtain falls on each runway, one truth remains: H.H. Dr. Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe is not just hosting fashion — he’s redefining it.

With every show, he turns glamour into meaning, couture into connection, and the runway into a realm where kindness reigns. His royal crown may symbolize tradition, but his heart beats for the future of fashion — diverse, inclusive, and radiant.

His Highness and Excellency Global Peace Ambassador Dr. PRINCE MARIO-MAX SCHAUMBURG-LIPPE is a working Royal, award winning TV- and Event-Host, Bertelsmann Randomhouse author, Public Speaker and Philanthropist ♔ Prince Mario-Max is the son of Royal Dignitaries H.H. Dr.h.c. Prince Waldemar and H.H. Dr. Princess Antonia of Schaumburg-Lippe. His Grandmother is H.R.H. Princess Feodora of Denmark. Therefore they are the Royal Danish Nachod Line of The Princes of Schaumburg-Lippe, the Founding Family of Hamburg, Lübeck and Kiel. ♔ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/princemariomax/ Website http://www.schaumburglippe.org Facebook https://www.facebook.com/zuschaumburglippe X-Twitter https://twitter.com/schaumburglippe Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/prince-mario-max-schaumburg-lippe-1879978a

The world watches, applauds, and smiles — for the Prince of Fashion has made every runway a little more royal.

Marlin McDarragh

Posted on by Dr Kamyar Tarigi

I came from a modest-of-means family in Eugene, Oregon – one that couldn’t really afford much in the way of travel, and certainly not to countries abroad. Sure, we had the family road trips now and then to the Pacific coast, to visit relatives in central Oregon, and up to Seattle. I loved it all. But I think our most exotic trip when I as young was a family car journey to Banff. My mom has never been on an airplane, and the only travel my dad experienced was as a radio officer on a ship during WW II’s Pacific Theater. A harsh kind of travel experience, let’s say. It didn’t really seem that travel was in the family genes. However, I had a keen interest in collecting foreign coins, stamps and poring through National Geographic magazines and the World Book encyclopedia my folks invested in.

When I was 12, my dad won an 8mm camera – a booby prize at some local contest. I became fixated with that little camera, and started making short films. These were action-packed, shot-in-the-neighborhood tiny adventure stories, starring friends, like Gary Zenzen. I’d been playing piano since age 8 and I believe that background aided me in filmmaking, giving me a sense for the rhythms of editing films. Then I won an “Oregon Young Filmmaker” award and a couple of other prizes in high school, and a screening on the Oregon PBS channel, of a short I made, A Child’s Vision. There was no looking back from there.

My first foray outside of North America was when I was 16, as I played trombone, and my high school concert band managed to spend about eight weeks touring various cities in Europe. Fantastic. That was the lodestar first travel experience, the one that cast the die for the rest of my life. I always tell audiences at my travel-film lectures that they should get their kids and grandkids to travel now, when they’re young. If you travel when young, your curiosity about the world will stay with you for the rest of your life. My daughter Maya (22) has three passports (US, Japan, and Brazil), and has already been to about 30 countries, and I know that her thirst for knowledge and world experience will be with her forever.

Making travel-adventure films, documentaries, and feature films over the past many decades has given me a laser-like focus on “the project” at hand, on the specific productions I’ve been commissioned to make, or films that I’ve funded through private equity.

My wife Lin Zuo is also a producer and contributing writer on our films, and we both wish we had more time during productions to linger in the locations, and talk in more depth with the local people.

Other specific challenges I’ve had during productions. The physical challenges of getting myself, the crew and the equipment through the run of production in the swamps and forests of tribal lands in New Guinea.Sitting through dinners with cold-blooded assassins in the Tribal Zone of Pakistan, trying to bend your mind around the juxtaposition of the hospitality offered and the fact they’ve brutally killed dozens of people. Being knife-attacked in an open market by an old woman in China – never knew exactly why. And obviously, filmmaking draws a lot of attention! There have been significant challenges to film topics that might embarrass the dictates of certain strong-arm governments. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been stopped or questioned or harassed by local authorities in communist, Muslim or dictator-driven countries.

Douglas Vermeeren

Posted on by Dr Kamyar Tarigi

Douglas Vermeeren began his acting career as a young boy in the second grade. His first acting job was on a television program for CBC in Canada. Since then he has acted and performed stunts in a variety of Hollywood and Independent films and Television shows. Vermeeren was also recognized with the BEST ACTOR AWARD for his work in several feature films in 2022 and 2023. And BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR at the Hollywood Blood Film Festival for his work in Tenants.

Prepare to witness an extraordinary moment at Luxury Gala 2024 as we honor the remarkable Douglas Vermeeren. Renowned for his stellar performance, Douglas is set to receive the prestigious “Best Actor” award for his role in the compelling movie, “Jackknife.” Join us in celebrating his exceptional talent and cinematic achievements on the grand stage of Luxury Gala 2024. It’s an accolade well-deserved, and we invite you to be part of this unforgettable recognition.

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Meleeka Clary: Multifaceted Talent and Award-Winning Director

Posted on by Dr Kamyar Tarigi

Welcome to the world of Dr. Meleeka Clary, a multi-talented American clinical psychologist, paralegal, model, actor, and the visionary director behind the critically acclaimed film “Three Corners of Deception.“

About Dr. Meleeka Clary

Dr. Meleeka Clary, born on October 14, 1973, in Boston, Massachusetts, is a versatile artist with a diverse range of accomplishments. Her journey has been marked by a series of accolades and awards, including the prestigious title of “Best Human Rights Director” at the Toronto International Women’s Film Festival, underscoring her commitment to impactful storytelling.

Entertainment Career

Dr. Meleeka’s foray into the world of entertainment began at a young age. Her early involvement in theater and performance set the stage for her future success. Notably, she performed in a Franklin Park Young and Youths Organization fashion show and recited dramatic poems as a child. Her talent was evident when, at 13, a director cast her as Harriet Tubman in a middle school play.

Throughout the years, Dr. Meleeka honed her skills at Vicki’s School of Dancing and Acting, participating in acting shows, commercial advertisements, and fashion shows. Her involvement in community-driven initiatives, such as Wipe Out Drug Abuse (WODA) and Black Essence, demonstrated her commitment to addressing social issues through her craft. She even took on the lead role in an original play, “When Your Sons Don’t Come Home And Why Me.”

Dr. Meleeka’s commitment extended beyond the stage, as she appeared on TV shows, contributing her voice to dialogue and public service announcements against teenage pregnancy. Her acting career blossomed further when she appeared in productions like “Dr. Bird’s Advice for Sad Poets” and popular TV shows like “Greenleaf,” “Nashville,” and “The Resident.”

In 2021, Dr. Meleeka Clary ventured into the director’s chair, marking her directorial debut with “Three Corners of Deception.” This compelling film is based on her personal experience of a divorce and custody battle, a deeply personal and poignant project that showcases her storytelling prowess.

Acclaim and Awards

Dr. Meleeka Clary’s creative endeavors have garnered recognition and acclaim, notably for “Three Corners of Deception.” Her achievements include:

  • Best Human Rights Director at the Toronto International Women Film Festival.
  • Best Female Director at the Toronto International Women Film Festival.
  • Best Female Director at the San Francisco Indie Short Festival.
  • Best Actress at the Festival Award at Global Film Festival LA.
  • Director honors at the Red River Film Festival.

Moreover, “Three Corners of Deception” was screened at esteemed film festivals such as the Berlin International Art Film Festival, where it received acclaim. It was also recognized as the Best Feature Film at the Paris International Women Festival, the Festival Award at the Medusa Film Festival, the Indian Indie Award, and the Festival Award at Global Film Festival LA.

Dr. Meleeka Clary’s remarkable journey in both psychology and the world of entertainment is a testament to her unwavering dedication to her craft and her commitment to addressing important social issues through her work.

Join us in celebrating the diverse talents and profound impact of Dr. Meleeka Clary, a true luminary in her fields of expertise.

 

 

Three Corners of Deception

“Three Corners of Deception” is a story about how a college law professor and an attorney fell in love over a Las Vegas Memorial Day weekend. They got married shortly thereafter, then started a family only to realize he wasn’t the man he said he was and a complete manipulation of the relationship occurred. The marriage ended hastily after a year, only to be carried out in a court of law that brought even more deception than what was originally thought. Eventually the court would rule against the mother in all areas due to judicial deception with judges, lawyers, and lawmen involved. They were part of the “good ol’ boy network.

TCDProductions


 

 

Dr. Meleeka Clary and her revolutionary win at the Luxury Gala

There are a few professionals who only put in rigorous efforts to attain their personal goals, but a few rare gems see the larger picture and work toward fulfilling a bigger purpose in life. This quality has often led them to the forefront of their industry, making them influential personalities for the world to take inspiration from. Who better than Dr. Meleeka Clary to serve as an example here?
Dr. Meleeka Clary’s journey to success is not just a conventional story; it is much more than that, driven by challenges, a lot of patience and perseverance, and a determined mind with a powerful purpose to impact lives one day at a time through her work. She is not just an American clinical psychologist, paralegal, actor, model, and filmmaker but also an inspiring woman who immersed herself in everything she ever chose to do in her career, only to impact lives through counseling and psychology or filmmaking positively.
Receiving the recent “Best Actress Award” for her romantic-thriller film, “Three Corners of Deception,” at the Luxury Gala during the screenings of the Oscars adds another feather to her creative hat. Recalling the prestigious honor, she says, “It was a night full of glitz and glamor, and getting recognized amongst stalwarts of the entertainment world has only filled my heart more with gratitude. This is a significant milestone in my life, from being a clinical psychologist to becoming an award-winning director and actor.”
The event not only celebrated Dr. Clary’s achievements but also showcased other incredible shows like Fashion Shows, Music & Dance Performances, Silent Auction, Live Music, Award ceremonies, Entertainment, and so much more. Dr. Meleeka Clary’s name on this prestigious list is a testament to her outstanding performing and filmmaking talent.
William Garth, receiving the Best Cinematographer award for the film, made “Three Corners of Deception” a highly acclaimed and recognized film at the much-talked-about luxury gala. Winning this big at the prestigious event, Dr. Meleeka Clary couldn’t control her excitement and shared on Instagram about the fun she had with her family and friends while accepting the award for the best actress. She also shared her happiness about Will Garth winning the best cinematography award for her film at the Luxury Gala during the screenings of the Oscars, and in the end, thanked the almighty.
The recognition garnered at the Luxury Gala 2024 not only acknowledges Dr. Meleeka Clary’s talent but also serves as a testament to her dedication and perseverance in the industry. As she continues to make strides in her career, she remains an inspiration to aspiring filmmakers, actors, and professionals worldwide.

Sir Earl Toon

Posted on by Dr Kamyar Tarigi

Whether you grew up with your daddy’s tunes from Kool & the Gang or discovered the soul-soothing sounds of hits like “Celebration” and “Ladies Night” through timeless classics, there’s no denying the irresistible charm of Sir Earl Toon’s music. With numerous Billboard Top 40 hits and a Grammy nomination under his belt, his music transcends generations and continues to resonate with fans worldwide.

From globe-trotting tours to honing his craft, Sir Earl Toon remains dedicated to delivering nothing but the best to his loyal fanbase. With a passion for entertaining and a commitment to keeping the beat alive, he promises an unforgettable experience for both ears and soul. So why hit pause on the music when the rhythm never stops? Keep grooving with Sir Earl Toon and let the melodies carry you to new heights!

< 

 

Ox Films

Posted on by Dr Kamyar Tarigi

Actor, Producer and Director Richard Ryan established Ox Films in 2008. Richard was inspired to start Ox Films as a way to create stories, then to produce, market, and distribute films under a company. Richard also wanted to create opportunities for others. Mr. Ryan feels as if he is doing what he has always done since he was a little kid, which is creating and team building. Richard believes everyone has the ability to create and to be great, but with dedication, focus, and willingness to learn, and allowing self improvement every step of the way the possibilities are endless. Ryan says, “the constant education and opportunities we have to be creative and too collaborate with so many brilliant people is very exciting and inspiring”.  Ox Films is currently developing new movies.  Ox Films has produced three feature films and 14 short movies.  Ox Films is now in pre-production of their next feature film.

 

Latest Movie “Art of deception”

“Art of Deception,” is a live-action motion feature film Starring Richard Ryan, Jackie Nova, and Leon Van Waas.  After the films Los Angeles theatrical premiere, “Art of Deception” has sold to 10 territories through out Asia, Europe, and South America.  It will have a nation wide US movie release on October 8, 2019.  

“Art of Deception” was lead by producers Richard Ryan and Jackie Nova and directed by Richard Ryan.  Other major keys to the success of “Art of Deception” is Director of Photography Vishal Solanki, and sound designer and re- recording mixer, Emmy Award-winning Patrick Giraudi.  Italian native award-winning composer,  Simone Cilio, created the magnificent score that added to the romanticized and riveting action and suspense.  Egypt’s Visual Effects Artist Mohamed Shawaf and colorist Michael Halper also contributed in a major way to help bring more color, life and pizazz into the life of “Art of Deception.”

 

Don Wilson

Posted on by

Don “The Dragon” Wilson is considered the greatest kick-boxing champion in the sport’s history. A native of South Florida, Wilson began fighting in the late 1970s. In a career which spanned 4 decades, he won 11 world kick-boxing championships, among them the WKA, STAR, WKC, PKO Lightheavyweight World Championships, WKA, STAR, ISKA World Cruiserweight Titles, and the WKA and STAR Super-Lightheavyweight World Championships. He posted a record of 72-5-2 with 47 wins by knockout. Wilson defeated such world champions as Dennis Alexio, Oaktree Edwards, and Dick Kimber. He retired from the sport in 1990, but launched a comeback on May 14, 1999. Since his return he has knocked-out Dick Kimber and defeated Dewey Cooper.

– IMDb Mini Biography By: angelsunchained

Linda Blair

Posted on by

From the age of five, Linda Blair had to get used to the spotlight, first as a child model and then as an actress, when out of 600 applicants she was picked for the role of Regan, the possessed child, in The Exorcist (1973). Linda quickly rose to international fame, won the Golden Globe, and seemed to be set to take the Academy Award for that role, but when it leaked how some parts of the role were not performed by her (the demonic voice was dubbed by Mercedes McCambridge, and eight seconds of a stunt dummy were used) that dream broke, and with that disappointment probably came the first blow to what looked like the beginning of an A-list career.


Over the next few years she had no trouble securing lead roles in a number of pictures, including the highly successful television films Born Innocent (1974) (the #1 TV movie of that year) and Sarah T. – Portrait of a Teenage Alcoholic (1975), as well as the Exorcist sequel Exorcist II: The Heretic (1977). However, when she was peer pressured into buying cocaine at the age of 18, it led to an arrest and subsequent sentencing to three years probation. The much-publicized drug bust caused Linda to be blacklisted in Hollywood, and her career was soon reduced to B-movies and occasional TV guest appearances only.

Although her career never returned to its former glory, Linda proved to be a good sport about embracing the change, and out of the ’80s emerged lead roles in two cult classics: the women-in-prison film Chained Heat (1983) and the femme fatale vigilante action film Savage Streets (1984). She continued acting in numerous films throughout the ’80s and ’90s, including the Exorcist spoof Repossessed (1990). In 1997, she also took to the Broadway stage and starred as “Rizzo” in the revival of “Grease.” She received widespread mainstream attention again in the 2000’s with the theatrical re-release of the Exorcist, followed by a hosting job on the hit Fox Family TV series Scariest Places on Earth(2000), which ran for six years and followed Linda as she visited notorious “haunted” locations around the world.

Linda was born in St. Louis, Missouri, to Elinore, a real estate agent, and James, an executive headhunter. She has a brother, Jimmy, and a sister, Debbie. Linda has been a Hollywood icon for over 40 years, but it is her first love of animals that has ultimately taken center stage in her life. She now runs the Linda Blair WorldHeart Foundation, a non-profit 501C3 tax deductible organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating abused, neglected, and abandoned animals from the harsh streets of the Los Angeles area, as well as from the overcrowded and overwhelmed city and county animal shelters. She works and lives on the 2-acre rescue sanctuary full-time in California, which was featured on The Today Show in a segment titled “From Devil to Angel.” Of course, she also makes frequent appearances at horror fan conventions to celebrate the legacy of the Exorcist.

– IMDb Mini Biography By: <elmic@post8.tele.dk> and R. Taylor

Marla Gibbs

Posted on by

Armed with an acid dry wit and a full arsenal of sarcasm and sass, African-American character comedienne Marla Gibbs showed up on 70s TV with a bang in middle age (44). Landing the feisty maid role on the popular ground-breaking CBS comedy, The Jeffersons(1975), eventually led to her very own sitcom, 227 (1985), a decade later and international celebrity. A divorced mother with three children (Angela Elayne Gibbs, Dorian, Joseph) at the time of her initial success, it was a job transfer from Detroit to Los Angeles, while working as a United Airlines reservation clerk, that set up this more-than-welcome surprise and change of destiny.

Following high school, Marla attended Peters Business School (1950-1952) and toiled for a time as a receptionist and switchboard operator in the Detroit area. Eventually, she secured work with United Airlines. After moving to Southern California on a transfer, Marla gave acting a try and initially studied at the Mafundi Institute and Watts Writers Workshop, located in the Watts area of L.A. Bitten hard by the acting bug, she went on to appear in a number of local productions, including “Medea”, “The Amen Corner” and “The Gingerbread Lady”.

After only a couple of minor film parts, including the “blaxploitation” film, Black Belt Jones(1974), she nabbed the role of “Florence Johnston”. The maid was initially set up as a mere one-shot guest part but Marla showed the character’s potential. And, so it came to be that “Florence Johnston” became THE scene-stealing foil to Sherman Hemsley‘s equally mouthy, money-minded “George Jefferson”. Until the show became a certified hit, Marla cautiously kept her job with the Airlines. With wisecracks and Emmy nominations (totaling 5) a plenty, however, Marla never had to look back. The role of “Florence” was a natural for a spin-off series and it happened with the sitcom, Checking In (1981), in which the character becomes a housekeeper for a very swanky hotel. The show was harmed, however, by a writer’s strike before it could gain a core audience. Fortunately for Marla, she was ushered right back into the Jefferson household following its quick demise (four episodes). Two months after the last “Jeffersons” episode aired in July of 1985, “227” was included in that year’s fall schedule.

Daughter Angela Elayne Gibbs produced an award-winning play by Christine Houstonentitled “227”, with Marla as the lead, at Marla’s own local Crossroads Theatre, which the actress founded in 1981. The play was a solid hit and Marla wisely purchased the TV rights. Once “The Jeffersons” was over, she pushed for “227” as a sitcom vehicle. Producer Norman Lear gave it the green light and Marla settled right back in for another popular series ride (for NBC), this time as resident gossip “Mary Jenkins”, whose demeanor was warmer and more approachable than the feisty “Florence” character. This series, which featured spitfire Jackée Harry as vampish neighbor, “Sandra”, ran for five years.

An eight-time NAACP Image Award winner, Marla has received several honors over the years, including Essence Woman of the Year. She has not carried a series since “227”, but has been seen from time to time on other popular shows, including ER (1994), Cold Case(2003), Chappelle’s Show (2003), Judging Amy (1999), Touched by an Angel (1994), The King of Queens (1998) and Dawson’s Creek (1998). She has also had recurring roles on daytime (Passions (1999)) as well as prime-time (Pryor’s Place (1984), The Hughleys(1998)) and gave a knowing portrayal as Natalie Cole‘s mother in the heart-warming TV movie, Lily in Winter (1994).

In later years, Marla turned up again on the big screen with plucky roles in Up Against the Wall (1991), The Meteor Man (1993), Lost & Found (1999), Foolish (1999), Border to Border (1998), The Brothers (2001), and standout roles in The Visit (2000) and Stanley’s Gig (2000).

Elsewhere, Marla’s voice has been heard on the animated TV series, 101 Dalmatians: The Series (1997) and, in addition to acting, sang the theme song to the film, Stanley’s Gig(2000), “In the Memory of You”, which will be included on a CD, entitled “Scenes In Jazz”. Marla owned a jazz club for some time in South Central L.A. called “Marla’s Memory Lane, a jazz and supper club that ran from 1981 to 1999. She released her own CD of music, “It’s Never Too Late”, in May 2006, and co-wrote with Ray Colcord, the theme song to her starring series, 227 (1985).

Marla’s older sister, Susie Garrett, who co-starred on the hit sitcom, Punky Brewster(1984), died of cancer in 2002. Fully recovered after suffering a small aneurysm and stroke a few years ago, the actress recently performed in the comedy play, “Boeing-Boeing”, in Kansas City, a role created on film by the equally sarcastic Thelma Ritter, back in the 1960s.

– IMDb Mini Biography By: Gary Brumburgh / gr-home@pacbell.net