227 TV Show is a beloved sitcom that aired on NBC from 1985 to 1990, capturing the hearts of audiences with its relatable characters and humorous yet poignant storytelling. Set in a Washington, D.C. apartment building, the show revolves around the lives of the residents, particularly focusing on the interactions and dynamics within the community. This article will explore the show's history, its significance in television history, the characters that made it memorable, and its enduring legacy.

The 227 TV show was created by Bill Boulware and was based on the play "227" by Christine Houston. The series not only entertained viewers but also addressed important social issues of the time, making it a trailblazer in the world of sitcoms. Throughout its five-season run, the show was praised for its diverse cast and its ability to tackle subjects such as race, family, and community relations with humor and sensitivity.

As we delve deeper into the world of 227 TV show, we will examine key aspects that contributed to its success, including its characters, themes, and the impact it had on future television shows. So, let's take a closer look at what made 227 a memorable part of TV history!

History of 227 TV Show
Main Characters
Themes and Issues Addressed
Impact on Television
Legacy and Relevance Today
Fun Facts about 227 TV Show
Conclusion
Sources

History of 227 TV Show

227 TV show first premiered on September 14, 1985, and quickly became a staple of NBC's Saturday night lineup. The show was produced by the legendary television executive and producer, Paul Junger Witt, and was known for its engaging storylines and strong character development. It featured a predominantly African American cast and was one of the first sitcoms to depict life in an urban apartment building.

The show was inspired by Christine Houston's play, which focused on the lives of residents in a Washington, D.C. apartment complex. The sitcom's title, "227," refers to the apartment number of the main character, Mary Jenkins, played by Marla Gibbs, who became a household name due to her role.

Throughout its run, the show addressed various social issues, including economic struggles, relationships, and the importance of community. It resonated with audiences and became a significant part of popular culture during the late 1980s.

Main Characters

The success of 227 TV show can largely be attributed to its well-developed characters. Below is a table summarizing the main characters of the show:

Character	Actor/Actress	Description
Mary Jenkins	Marla Gibbs	The witty and outspoken resident of apartment 227.
Maxine Waters	Anna Maria Horsford	Mary's best friend and the building's voice of reason.
Jeffrey	Hal Williams	The lovable handyman who often finds himself in humorous situations.
Rose Lee Jenkins	Alaina Reed Hall	Mary's mother, who provides wisdom and support.
Brenda Jenkins	Jackee Harry	Mary's sassy and outspoken daughter.

Character Development

Each character in the 227 TV show had a unique personality and background that contributed to the show's humor and depth. Mary Jenkins, as the central character, was often the voice of reason amidst the chaos, while characters like Jackee Harry's Brenda brought a youthful energy and sass to the mix. The relationships between characters were relatable and often reflected the dynamics of real-life friendships and family ties.

Guest Stars

Throughout its run, 227 TV show featured several guest stars, including notable celebrities such as:

Michael Jai White
Whitney Houston
Don Rickles
Jaime Foxx

These guest appearances added excitement and variety to the series, making each episode feel fresh and engaging.

Themes and Issues Addressed

227 TV show was not just a source of entertainment; it also addressed several important themes and social issues relevant to its time. Some of the key themes explored in the series include:

Community and Family: The show emphasized the importance of community and the bonds that form between neighbors.
Race Relations: It tackled issues of race and identity, highlighting the experiences of African Americans in urban settings.
Economic Struggles: Many episodes highlighted the financial challenges faced by the residents and how they overcame them together.
Friendship: The strong friendships between characters provided a sense of support and unity in the face of adversity.

Impact on Television

227 TV show had a significant impact on the landscape of television, particularly in how it portrayed African American families and urban life. It paved the way for other sitcoms that followed, such as "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" and "Living Single," which also featured predominantly black casts and explored similar themes.

The show's unique blend of comedy and social commentary resonated with viewers, making it a benchmark for future sitcoms. It demonstrated that sitcoms could be both entertaining and thought-provoking, leading to a shift in how stories were told on television.

Legacy and Relevance Today

Even decades after its original airing, the legacy of 227 TV show lives on. The series is often cited as a classic example of a groundbreaking sitcom that addressed real-life issues while entertaining audiences. Its characters and storylines continue to resonate with viewers, and it has found a new audience through reruns and streaming platforms.

The impact of 227 extends beyond entertainment; it has inspired discussions about race, community, and the role of television in shaping societal perceptions. As a result, it remains a relevant part of the conversation around diversity and representation in media today.

Fun Facts about 227 TV Show

The show's theme song, "227," was performed by the legendary singer-songwriter, Johnny Harris.
Marla Gibbs received several award nominations for her role as Mary Jenkins, showcasing her talent and impact on the show.
The character of Brenda Jenkins was originally intended to be a minor role but quickly became a fan favorite due to Jackee Harry's standout performance.
227 was one of the first sitcoms to feature a predominantly African American cast in a contemporary urban setting.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 227 TV show is a significant part of television history that remains relevant and beloved by audiences today. Its relatable characters, humor, and exploration of important social issues set it apart as a groundbreaking series. As we reflect on its legacy, it's clear that 227 has left an indelible mark on the world of sitcoms and continues to inspire future generations of television creators and viewers alike.

We invite you to share your thoughts about the 227 TV show in the comments below. What were your favorite moments or characters? Don't forget to share this article with fellow fans and check out other articles on our site for more insights into your favorite shows!