Anecdotes

One of the founders of the American Negro Theater.

In theater from the 1930s, she debuted on Broadway in 1941 in Orson Welles's production of "Native Son."

Became a TV personality late in her career as Marla Gibbs' nosy next-door-neighbor, "Pearl Shay", on the sitcom, 227 (1985).

Friends with Redd Foxx.

Longtime friend of Marla Gibbs.

Attended Fisk University for two years.

Trained at the W.P.A. Theater and with the Rose McClendon Players in New York.