A talented actress and singer who brought energy and charm to stage and screen, particularly in the iconic musical "Wicked" and as Mabel "Mabel" Jefferson on the sitcom "What's Happening!!"
Mabel King, the effervescent actress and singer, is best known for her iconic roles as Mabel "Mama" Thomas on the ABC sitcom What's Happening! and Evillene the Witch in the stage musical and film adaptation of The Wiz. These two signature characters sealed her place in the hearts of audiences and cemented her status as a trailblazing entertainer.
Born Mabel Elizabeth Washington on Christmas Day, 1932, in Charleston, South Carolina, King's early life was steeped in music and performance. Raised in Harlem, New York, she honed her vocal skills as a gospel and nightclub singer, setting the stage for a career that would span multiple genres and mediums.
King's acting debut came in her mid-30s, when she took on the role of Maria in the national touring play of Porgy and Bess in 1966. This was followed by her Broadway debut as Ernestina in the musical comedy Hello, Dolly! in 1967. Over the years, she continued to build her stage credits, including a nomination for a Drama Desk Award for her performance as Evillene in The Wiz in 1975.
King's film career took off in the 1970s, with notable roles in Dont Play Us Cheap, Ganja & Hess, The Bingo Long Traveling All-Stars & Motor Kings, and Scott Joplin. Her memorable performances solidified her status as a talented and versatile actress.
King's portrayal of Mabel "Mama" Thomas on What's Happening! from 1976 to 1978 endeared her to a new generation of audiences. Her influence on African American representation in television and film paved the way for future generations of actors and actresses.
Mabel King passed away on November 9, 1999, but her legacy lives on through her body of work, inspiring new generations of performers and audiences alike.
98 Years Old
A pioneering vocalist of the 1950s, known for her powerful, soulful voice and hit songs like "So Long" and "Teardrops from My Eyes", helping to define the sound of R&B and rock 'n' roll.
Born in 1918
A Tony Award-winning actress and singer who dazzled audiences with her powerful voice and charismatic stage presence, particularly in the classic musical "Hello, Dolly!"
Born in 1896
A trailblazing jazz and blues singer, actress, and Broadway performer who broke racial barriers in the entertainment industry with her smooth, sultry voice and captivating stage presence.
Born in 1924
A legendary jazz vocalist and pianist, known for her powerful, soulful voice and iconic renditions of blues and jazz standards.
Born in 1917
A virtuosic jazz vocalist known for her pure, expressive tone, impeccable phrasing, and incredible scat singing abilities. She won 13 Grammy Awards and recorded over 200 albums.
Born in 1915
Legendary jazz vocalist and actress known for her expressive, emotive singing style and iconic songs like "God Bless the Child" and "Strange Fruit".
Born in 1917
A legendary performer who broke racial barriers in Hollywood, starring in films and Broadway shows, and using her platform to advocate for civil rights.
Born in 1920
A renowned jazz vocalist, pianist, and actress who interpreted lyrics with emotional depth and phrased with impeccable timing, known for her distinctive, expressive voice and impressive scat singing abilities.
