227

About 227

227 is an American sitcom that aired on NBC from 1985 to 1990. Set in a predominantly African-American apartment complex in Washington, D.C., the series followed the daily lives of the residents, focusing primarily on feisty housewife Mary Jenkins and her close-knit circle of friends and neighbors.

Making / Production

The series was created by Bill Boulware and Michael G. Moye, who served as executive producers alongside Marla Gibbs, who played Mary Jenkins. Produced by Embassy Communications during its first season and then ELP Communications thereafter, 227 was filmed before a live studio audience.

Actors

• Marla Gibbs: Portrayed the character of Mary Jenkins, a sharp-tongued, gossip-loving housewife known for her witty comebacks and running commentary on life.
• Helen Martin: Played the role of Pearl Shay, the building's busybody who often exchanged friendly barbs with Mary.
• Jackée Harry: Rose to fame as Sandra Clark, the sassy, flirty neighbor who enjoyed teasing and joking with the other residents.
• Hal Williams: Played the role of Lester Jenkins, Mary's devoted, hardworking husband.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• '227' is the apartment number where the main characters reside.
• The series was based on a play by Christine Houston, herself a resident of a Chicago apartment building numbered 227.
• Jackée Harry won an Emmy for her role as Sandra Clark.

Awards

In 1987, Jackée Harry won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for her role as Sandra Clark in 227.

Quotes

• "Trust me, Mary, I have a sixth sense."
• "Sandra, your sixth sense couldn't get you to the front door."

Music/Soundtrack

• The theme song, "There's No Place Like Home," was sung by Marla Gibbs.
• Music for the series was composed by Ray Colcord.