Bern Nadette Stanis, the beloved actress best known for her groundbreaking role as Thelma Evans on the iconic 1970s sitcom “Good Times,” has passed away at the age of 70. Stanis, born on December 22, 1953, in Brooklyn, New York, made history as the first Black teenage female series regular on American television, a role that challenged stereotypes and resonated deeply with audiences.
Stanis’s portrayal of Thelma, a bright and ambitious young woman, not only made her a household name but also established her as a cultural icon for African-Americans. After “Good Times,” which aired from 1974 to 1979, she continued to diversify her career with guest appearances on notable shows such as “The Cosby Show” and “The Parkers,” as well as a role in the 2021 series “The Family Business” on BET Plus.
Beyond her acting career, Stanis was an accomplished author, with works like “Situations 101: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly,” where she explored relationships and life’s challenges. Her endeavors in both entertainment and literature have solidified her legacy, with an estimated net worth of $6 million attributed to her multifaceted career.
Stanis was also a passionate advocate for health awareness, particularly Alzheimer’s disease, motivated by her mother’s struggle with the condition. She dedicated herself to educating underserved communities about caregiving and improving healthcare accessibility. Additionally, her commitment to empowering African-Americans through financial literacy and relationship education showcased her desire to uplift her community.
Married four times and a devoted mother to two daughters, Dior and Britney, Stanis resided in Atlanta, Georgia, where she balanced her creative pursuits with family life. Her remarkable journey and contributions to society, both on and off-screen, serve as a testament to her resilience and the power of representation.
As the news of her passing spreads, condolences pour in for Stanis’s family, marking the end of an era for a trailblazer who inspired countless individuals through her work and advocacy.
