Episodes

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Season 1

1. Too Old Blues-James is all excited because he's sure he's going to get a high paying job. However, at the interview, he learns that he's too old to join the company's union. Meanwhile, Florida and the kids get ahead of themselves and throw a celebration party for James unaware that he was rejected.

NOTE: According to TV Guide, this was the first episode to air on Friday, February 8, 1974. Matthew "Stymie" Beard makes his first appearance in the recurring role of Monty.

2. Black Jesus-J.J.'s painting of a Black Jesus, becomes the family's good luck charm after a string of success hits each family member. However, Florida refuses to entertain the notion that the painting had anything to do with the recent string of "good times".

NOTE: Willona points out that Black Jesus looks like Ned the Wino!

3. Getting Up the Rent-With an eviction notice over their heads, the Evans family scrambles to come up with $74 dollars needed for their rent. Despite Florida's opinion, James goes down to the pool hall to try to hustle some money, J.J. comes up with a scheme of his own and Florida and Willona go down to the welfare office.

# NOTE: Some resources list this as the first episode to have aired. According to TV Guide it didn't air until February 22, 1974.

4. God's Business is Good Business-An old friend of James, who is now a shady televangilist, stops by the Evans apartment and offers James a job that would pay $100 a day. James is set to take it, however, Florida is dead set against James accepting the job, believeing the job goes against his morals and values.

5. Michael Gets Suspended-Michael comes home from school early one day with the announcement that he has been suspended. This, after telling his teacher that George Washington was a racist. James and Florida become determined to prove to Michael that he's wrong.

6. Sex and the Evans Family-Florida finds what she believes to be a dirty story called, "Sexual Behavior in the Ghetto". Assuming it to be J.J.'s, Florida confronts him, but she's in for a surprise when Thelma claims it and has an even bigger surprise when she learns it belongs to Thelma's latest boyfriend.

7. Junior Gets a Patron-J.J. is sure he's bound to make it big when he gets a patron in Leroy Jackson, who begins providing him with all the supplies he needs. However, when James discovers who the patron is, he forbids J.J. to be associated with him and J.J. responds by moving out. This leads to a confrontation at J.J.'s new apartment between James and Leroy.

NOTE: This episode was postponed on March 15, 1974. Ja'net DuBois does not appear in this episode.

8. Junior the Senior gs: Frank Campanella (Mr. Kirkwood). Florida and James are worried that J.J. won't pass into the 12th grade but when he gets his report card he did indeed pass but the grades seem to be a far cry from what they should be. This leads James and Florida to do a little investigating on their part. b: 29-Mar-1974 pc: 108 w: Lou Derman & Bill Davenport, Lloyd Garver & Ken Hecht s: Lloyd Garver & Ken Hecht d: Herbert Kenwith

9. The Visitor gs: Richard B. Shull (Mr. Stonehurst). Michael submits a angry letter about the conditions in the Evans' apartment to a newspaper and gets an immediate response from a housing commission official who quickly finds himself stranded in the ghetto and experiences the conditions first hand.

b: 05-Apr-1974 pc: 109 w: Jack Elinson & Norman Paul s: Allessandro R. Veith and Robert Wolterstorff & Thad Mumford

10. Springtime in the Ghetto. gs: Betty Cole (Mrs. Hines) Raymond Allen (Ned the Wino) Robin Braxton (Mrs. Vinson) Simeon Holloway (Mr. Johnson). Florida is running in a cleanest apartment competition and is sure she will win. However, her chances are dashed when Michael tries to help someone in need and brings home Ned the Wino.

b: 19-Apr-1974 pc: 110 w: Norman Paul & Jack Elinson d: Herbert Kenwith

11. The TV Commercial gs: Ernest Morrison (Messenger). Florida comes home from the supermarket with great news, she's been offered a role in a TV commercial. What's even better is the pay she will get, $5,000. However, once she reads the script and tests the product, Florida has second thoughts.

b: 26-Apr-1974 pc: 111 w: Lou Derman & Bill Davenport s: Lou Derman and Bill Davenport & Simon Muntner d: Herbert Kenwith

12. The Check Up gs: Dean Santoro (Doctor). Florida and the kids become concerned about James's health after reading an article in a magazine about hypertension. When he learns about their concerns, he goes through the roof and refuses to go in for a check up.

b: 03-May-1974 pc: 112 w: John Donley & Kurt Taylor d: Herbert Kenwith

13. My Son the Lover gs: Ta-Tanisha (Marcy). A popular girl wants J.J. to paint her portrait and J.J. mistakenly assumes that they will become more serious when he makes plans to ask her to go steady. However, Florida and Thelma smell a rat.

b: 10-May-1974 pc: 113 w: Jack Elinson & Norman Paul, Lou Derman & Bill Davenport s: Lou Derman & Bill Davenport d: Herbert Kenwith

Season 2

14. Florida Flips. gs: Rosanna Carter (Cora) Helen Martin (Wanda) Sylvia Soares (Bernadine). Florida's strange behavior has the family and Willona wondering what's wrong with her. Michael thinks she's beginning menopause while Willona believes she's fed up with the boredom that comes with being a housewife.

b: 10-Sep-1974 pc: 201 w: Jack Elinson & Norman Paul s: John Donley & Kurt Taylor, Jack Elinson & Norman Paul d: Herbert Kenwith

NOTE: The series is now airing on Tuesdays. Helen Martin makes her first of a number of appearances as Florida's friend, Wanda. 15. J.J. Becomes a Man (Part 1) gs: Stymie Beard (Monty). J.J.'s 18th birthday has James and Florida in a fit when they find out they won't be able to give J.J. the art supplies he wanted because James' credit has been reduced to 0. After the birthday party, news hits the Evans family that J.J. has been arrested for robbing a liquor store.

b: 17-Sep-1974 pc: 203 w: Jack Elinson & Norman Paul d: Herbert Kenwith

16. J.J. Becomes a Man (2)gs: Mel Stewart (Davis) Ron Masak (Sloane) Stan Haze (Prisoner) James Greene (Desk Sergeant) Cal Wilson (Loan Shark) Connie Sawyer (Personel Employee) Lil Henderson (Woman on Bench). J.J. is taken down to the police station for questioning in the liquor store robbery. The family gathers there and tries to think up ways to raise enough money for J.J.'s bail and ultimately consider taking money from a loan shark.

b: 24-Sep-1974 pc: 205 w: Jack Elinson & Norman Paul d: Herbert Kenwith

NOTE: Mel Stewart is better known for his role as Henry Jefferson on All in the Family.

17. Crosstown Buses Run All Day, Doodah, Doodah. gs: Ron Glass (Mr. Pearson). Michael has the chance to be bused to a better school in a white neighborhood but he is determined to get out of it. Florida and James first hear about the opportunity when his principal arrives to question them about their responses on a busing questionnaire that Michael responded to and forged his parents names.

b: 01-Oct-1974 pc: 202 w: John Baskin & Roger Shulman d: Herbert Kenwith

18. The Man I Most Admire. Michael must write an essay on the person whom he most admires. He first picks Florida for her strength and effort in keeping the family together. However, Florida points out that James may be the best person. However, James' recent actions in applying for a new job leave little to be admired.

b: 08-Oct-1974 pc: 204 w: Michael Morris d: Herbert Kenwith

19. Thelma's Young Man. gs: Louis Gossett, Jr. (Donald Knight) Thelma's been seeing the same man for two months and hasn't introduced him to the family yet. However, when she comes home with an engagement ring, Florida and James demand that they meet him and they are in for a surprise when they finally do.

b: 15-Oct-1974 pc: 208 w: Roger Shulman & John Baskin s: Roland Wolpert d: Herbert Kenwith

NOTE: Louis Gossett, Jr. starred as Fiddler along with John Amos who portrayed an adult Kunta Kinte in the ABC mini-series, Roots.

20. The I.Q. Test. gs: Austin Pendleton (Donald Hargrove) Kay Dingle (Secretary) Michael, one of the brightest boys in his class, comes home with the news that he scored the lowest out of his whole class on an I.Q. test. Florida and James take an immediate trip to the school after they hear Michael's explanation.

b: 22-Oct-1974 pc: 207 w: Jay Moriarty & Mike Milligan d: Herbert Kenwith

21. The Encyclopedia Hustle. gs: Ron Glass (Mr. Anderson). An encyclopedia salesman is the last person James wants to see when he comes home from work. However, he softens when he learns the man is blind. This leads James to sign a contract and reads the fine print only after the man leaves.

b: 29-Oct-1974 pc: 206 w: Bob Shayne & Eric Cohen d: Herbert Kenwith

22. The Gang (1). gs: Michael D. Roberts (Neck-Bone) Oscar DeGruy (Mad Dog) Douglas Grant (Sweet Pen). J.J. secretly has become a member of the Satan's Knights, a gang who are in the midst of a gang war with the Warlords. Two members and the leader of the Satan's Knights arrive at the Evan's home to escort a scared J.J. to a meeting place where the two gangs are to tangle. However, on the way there they run into James and Florida and a scuffle ensues leaving J.J. shot.

b: 12-Nov-1974 pc: 211 w: Eric Monte & Allan Manings, Jack Elinson & Norman Paul s: Eric Monte d: Herbert Kenwith

23. The Gang (2). gs: Roger Aaron Brown (Mr. Connors) Lynn Hamilton (Mrs. Edwards) Oscar DeGruy (Mad Dog) Richard Stahl (Judge Daniels) James Wheaton (Bailiff). J.J. is recovering after being shot by Mad Dog, which only turned out to be a flesh wound. Meanwhile, a vengeful James presses charges against Mad Dog but a worried Florida is afraid James's anger will take over before the law does.

b: 19-Nov-1974 pc: 212 w: Eric Monte and Jack Elinson & Norman Paul s: Eric Monte d: Herbert Kenwith

NOTE: Lynn Hamilton is better known for her recurring role as Donna Harris on another Lear sitcom, Sanford and Son.

24. The Matchmaker. gs: Lloyd Hollar (Duane Poole)

A wedding has Florida realizing that Willona is the only friend of hers left that isn't married. So this leads Florida to try her hand at matchmaking, and matches her with a friend of James'.

b: 26-Nov-1974 pc: 209 w: Jack Elinson & Norman Paul d: Herbert Kenwith

25. The Windfall. gs: Alvin Childress (Rev. Gordon) David Lewis (Mr. Borgen) Willie Trotter (Guy #1) Walter Pittman Jr. (Guy #2). James finds a bag of robbery loot adding up to $27,000. After some coaxing from Florida, James decides to turn it in. However, what Florida doesn't know is that there was $29,000 in the bag and James kept the other $2000.

b: 03-Dec-1974 pc: 210 w: Allan Manings d: Herbert Kenwith

26. Sometimes There's No Bottom in the Bottle gs: Albert Reed (Oscar Wilson) Bonnie Banfield (Naomi Wilson) Margueritte Ray (Millie Wilson). Cousin Naomi is visiting the Evans' for the Christmas season. However, her visit is not a happy one for Thelma, who discovers that Naomi is hiding a serious drinking problem.

b: 10-Dec-1974 pc: 213 w: Norm Liebmann & Larry Markes d: Herbert Kenwith

27. Florida's Big Gig. gs: Charlotte Rae (Ms. Rogers) Dick O'Neill (Mr. Bridges) James is sure he's going to get a sales position at a department store but when he brings Florida along on the interview he is in for a big surprise, the supervisor would rather hire Florida rather then him.

b: 31-Dec-1974 pc: 214 w: Bob Peete d: Herbert Kenwith

28. Florida Goes to School. gs: Hal Williams (Willie Washington. Florida is going to night school hoping to achieve a High School Equivalency diploma, but her working in the daytime and going to school at night puts a strain on her relationship with James.

b: 07-Jan-1975 pc: 215 w: Roger Shulman & John Baskin s: Michael E. Coleman d: Herbert Kenwith

29. The Nude. gs: Carl Weathers (Calvin) Betty A. Bridges (Charlene). A woman aks J.J. to paint a nude portrait of her as a birthday gift for her husband. However, Florida has a hard time understanding why a woman would pose in the nude and why she has to pose in the Evans' apartment.

b: 14-Jan-1975 pc: 216 w: Dick Bensfield & Perry Grant s: Barry E. Blitzer d: Herbert Kenwith

30. The Family Business gs: Johnny Brown (Nathan Bookman) Morris Buchanan (Mr. Dawson). Realizing his mechanical skills, Florida suggests that James open a fix-it shop but when they go to the bank, they're turned down for a loan. This leads James to set up shop right in the apartment, despite a clause in the lease.

b: 21-Jan-1975 pc: 217 w: Allan Manings and Jack Elinson & Norman Paul s: Alex Barris d: Herbert Kenwith

31. The Debutante Ball. gs: Santiago Gonzalez (Mr. Robinson) Rosanne Katon (Clarissa) Ann Weldon (Mrs. Robinson). J.J. is enchanted with his new girlfriend, Clarissa, and is all set to take her to a ritzy debutante ball. However, Clarissa has come to the Evans' apartment with some bad news, her parents won't let her go with J.J., citing that they think she's too good for him.

b: 04-Feb-1975 pc: 218 w: Jack Elinson & Norman Paul s: Patricia Edwards d: Herbert Kenwith

32. The Dinner Party. gs: Frances Foster (Ms. Gertrude Vinson). An elderly resident of the projects appears to be living on pet food after Michael takes out her garbage. The Evans family's attempt to do something for her is complicated when she brings a meat loaf to dinner and the kids suspect it is made from dog food.

b: 11-Feb-1975 pc: 219 w: Robert Fisher and Phil Naples & Allan Manings s: Robert Fisher & Phil Naples d: Herbert Kenwith

33. The Houseguest. gs: Ernie Barnes (Hoodlum #1) Ernie Wheelwright (Hoodlum #2) Thalmus Rasulala (Ernie Harris) Raymond Allen (Ned the Wino. A childhood friend of James' arrives for a visit and quickly his gambling problem becomes an Evans family problem when two hoods show up looking for him to pay off a $5000 debt.

b: 18-Feb-1975 pc: 220 w: Norman Paul & Jack Elinson, Elon Packard & John Fenton Murray d: Herbert Kenwith

34. My Girl Henrietta gs: Tina Andrews (Henrietta). J.J. suddenly begins searching for a full-time job and also begins discussing marriage to his steady girlfriend, Henrietta. However, everything seems to make sense to James and Florida when Henrietta walks through the door, pregnant.

b: 25-Feb-1975 pc: 221 w: Bob Peete d: Herbert Kenwith

35. The Enlistment. gs: William Christopher (Doctor) Bill Walker (Mr. Carter) Cal Wilson (Sergeant) Maidie Norman (Edna). The Evans' family is hit with a double dose of unemployment blues after both James and J.J. lose their jobs. Wanting to support his family, J.J. decides to join the U.S. army.

b: 04-Mar-1975 pc: 222 w: Art Baer & Ben Joelson d: Herbert Kenwith

NOTE: Esther Rolle does not appear in this episode.

36. Thelma's Scholarship. gs: Randi Kallan (Cindy Bradford). Thelma has a chance at winning a scholarship to an exclusive boarding school in Michigan. However, even before she knows she won, a snobby girl from a fraternity comes around wanting Thelma to join and quickly discovers they just want her because she's black.

b: 11-Mar-1975 pc: 223 w: Perry Grant & Dick Bensfield d: Herbert Kenwith

37. The Lunch Money Ripoff. gs: Douglas Grant (Eddie). A bully has been stealing Michael's lunches which prompts James to give him some tips on how to handle the situation. However, Michael surprises everyone with his own tactic, he invites the bully home for the weekend.

b: 18-Mar-1975 pc: 224 w: Roger Shulman & John Baskin d: Herbert Kenwith

Season 3

38. A Real Cool Job. gs: David Moses (Salesman). After taking some courses at a trade school, James has a chance of getting a good paying job. However, when he is finally offered one, there is one catch, it's in Alaska.

b: 09-Sep-1975 pc: 302 w: Hubert Geiger and Roger Shulman & John Baskin s: Hubert Geiger d: Herbert Kenwith

39. The Family Gun gs: Dave Turner (Officer Wigmore). When Florida and the kids discuss the unsafe conditions in the building and the neighborhood, James reveals his means of protection, a gun. Things get even more chaotic after Thelma is attacked and James goes to get the gun but discovers it missing.

b: 16-Sep-1975 pc: 301 w: Bob Peete d: Herbert Kenwith

40. Operation Florida. gs: Helen Stenborg (Cashier) Hilda Haynes (Mrs. Andrews) Rai Sanders (Doctor). Florida has had a pain in her side for the last two weeks but doesn't want to see a doctor out of fear of the cost. However, when James learns of her dilemma he decides to pay any cost for Florida's treatment, even after he learns she has to have a gallbladder operation.

b: 23-Sep-1975 pc: 303 w: Perry Grant & Dick Bensfield d: Herbert Kenwith

41. Love in the Ghetto gs: Carl Franklin (Larry Walters). Thelma has great news, she's engaged. However, her opinion of great news differs greatly with her parents who hit the roof after learning this.

b: 30-Sep-1975 pc: 306 w: Perry Grant & Dick Bensfield d: Herbert Kenwith

42. Florida's Rich Cousin gs: Rozelle Gayle (Drunk) Kim Hamilton (Betty) Percy Rodriguez (Edger) Randy Harris (Bartender). Florida plans on borrowing money from her cousin to help pay some unexpected bills. James's pride stands in the way causing him to storm out to a bar, leaving Florida to learn about the shocking news about her seemingly wealthy cousin by herself.

b: 07-Oct-1975 pc: 304 w: Roger Shulman & John Baskin d: Herbert Kenwith

43. The Weekend gs: Judy Pace (Gloria)A friend of James' gives him permission to use his cabin to celebrate his and Florida's 20th wedding anniversary. However, the trick is trying to get Florida to stop worrying about the kids.

b: 14-Oct-1975 pc: 307 w: Jack Elinson & Norman Paul d: Herbert Kenwith

44. The Baby gs: Mary Alice (Loretta) Vivian Bonnell (Cora) Estelle Evans (Alice). Florida and the kids throw a baby shower for a friend, Loretta. However, the joyous occasion is dampened when Loretta announces her plans of giving the baby up for adoption.

b: 21-Oct-1975 pc: 308 w: Bruce Howard d: Herbert Kenwith

NOTE: Estelle Evans is the real-life sister of Esther Rolle. John Amos does not appear in this episode.

45. Michael's Big Fall. gs: Norma Donaldson (Mrs. Baker) Louis Gossett, Jr. (Uncle Wilbert) Jay Merreman Riley (Mr. Jenkins) Kathryn Jackson (Mrs. Jenkins) Ronnie Cox (Bobby Jenkins). When James is out of town, Florida and her brother Wilbert are left to deal with a troubled Michael. His cutting classes, getting into fights at school and low grades are all warning signs that lead Florida to make an appointment to see Michael's teacher.

b: 28-Oct-1975 pc: 309 w: Bob Peete d: Herbert Kenwith

46. The Politicians. gs: Albert Reed (Alderman Fred Davis) Stanley Clay (Jimmy Pearson). A feud erupts in the Evans' household when James and J.J. take the side of Alderman Fred Davis during his attempt at a re-election while Florida, Thelma and Willona take the side of his young opponent.

b: 04-Nov-1975 pc: 305 w: Norman Paul & Jack Elinson d: Herbert Kenwith

47. Willona's Dilemma gs: J.A. Preston (Walter Ingles) When J.J. brings home Walter, a man from his art class, he hits it off with Willona. Despite the fact that he's deaf, him and Willona begin a relationship one that Willona thinks is headed for the alter.

b: 11-Nov-1975 pc: 310 w: Roger Shulman & John Baskin d: Herbert Kenwith

48. Florida's Protest gs: Adrian Ricard (Matron) Bhetty Waldron (The Princess) Fred D. Scott (Mr. Coggins) Lester Wilson (Mr. Gage) Nedra Volz (Old Lady). Florida and James become outraged when the kids get a touch of food poisoning after eating meat from the local supermarket. She organizes a group of concerned citizens and they boycott the market. The protest gets effective results, but not before Florida experiences her first trip to jail.

b: 25-Nov-1975 pc: 311 w: Allan Manings s: Patricia Edwards d: Herbert Kenwith

49. The Mural gs: James Wheaton (P.J. Hewitt) J.J. is commissioned by a bank to paint a mural and in return will receive $250 needed for Thelma's college education whom recently won a scholarship and found herself $200 short. However, the bank is reluctant to pay after seeing the finished product. b: 02-Dec-1975 pc: 312 w: Perry Grant & Dick Bensfield s: Thad Mumford and Perry Grant & Dick Bensfield d: Herbert Kenwith

50. A Loss of Confidence gs: Catherine Lee Smith (JoAnn) Thelma brings home a friend of hers and instantly J.J. is smitten. However, when she rejects him he quickly loses all of his confidence and slips into a depression.

> b: 09-Dec-1975 pc: 313 w: Norman Paul & Jack Elinson d: Herbert Kenwith

51. Cleatus gs: Jack Baker (Cleatus) Beeson Carroll (Reardon) Laurence Haddon (Monroe) Edward Crawford (Kid) A bank robbery in Atlanta has the FBI showing up at the Evans' apartment to question Florida since her nephew, Cleatus is the prime suspect. Things get tense, when Cleatus arrives at the apartment with a briefcase full of money and wanting a place to stay. b: 16-Dec-1975 pc: 314 w: Ron Allen Thompson and Norman Paul & Jack Elinson s: Ron Allen Thompson d: Herbert Kenwith

52. The Family Tree gs: Richard Ward (Henry Evans) Thelma researches her family tree for a school project and discovers James's father is very much alive and living in the Chicago area. However, when James learns that Thelma has invited him as a surprise for his birthday, he refuses to see him. b: 23-Dec-1975 pc: 315 w: Bob Peete d: Herbert Kenwith NOTE: Richard Ward makes his first appearance as James' father, Henry Evans.

53. A Place to Die gs: Arnold Johnson (Hubert Johnson) An elderly man that Michael befriended stops by the Evans' apartment just prior to the New Years celebration and knowing that he only has a little time left, decides that this would be the best place to pass on, surrounded by a loving family and friends. b: 30-Dec-1975 pc: 316 w: Norman Paul & Jack Elinson, Roger Shulman & John Baskin s: Norman Paul & Jack Elinson d: Herbert Kenwith

54. J.J.'s Fiancee (1) gs: Debbie Allen (Diana) Sonny Jim Gaines (Fred Buchanan) Marie Moore (Lucille Buchanan) Mel Bryant (Salesman) J.J. and his girlfriend, Diana, are getting serious and the topic of marriage comes up, something which both J.J. and Diana both want. However, both of their parents are totally against the notion. Meanwhile, Diana is secretly hiding a drug problem. b: 06-Jan-1976 pc: 317 w: Roger Shulman & John Baskin d: Herbert Kenwith NOTE: Dancer Debbie Allen is better known for her role on the TV drama series, Fame. This episode was videotaped on December 11, 1975. 55. J.J.'s Fiancee (2) gs: Debbie Allen (Diana) Sonny Jim Gaines (Fred Buchanan) Marie Moore (Lucille Buchanan) Philip Baker Hall (Motel Owner) Edward Crawford (Kid) On the night of her senior prom, Diana decides to run off to Indiana and elope with J.J. Meanwhile, back in Chicago, switched purses leads the Evans family to discover Diana's drug problem and her supplier. b: 13-Jan-1976 pc: 318 w: Roger Shulman & John Baskin, Norman Paul & Jack Elinson s: Roger Shulman & John Baskin d: Herbert Kenwith

56. Sweet Daddy Williams gs: Teddy Wilson (Sweet Daddy Williams) Bebe Drake (Savannah) Adrian Ricard (Adrian) Ernie Barnes (Hood #1) Larry Greene (Hood #2) J.J. has been commissioned by a number's runner, Sweet Daddy Williams, to paint the portrait of his girlfriend, Savannah. In return, J.J. will get his own art display. b: 20-Jan-1976 pc: 319 w: James Ritz d: Herbert Kenwith NOTE: Teddy Wilson makes his first appearance in the recurring role of Sweet Daddy Williams. This episode was videotaped on January 8, 1976.

57. The Investigation gs: Helen Martin (Wanda) Don Marshall (FBI Agent) The family is being investigated by the FBI because they are suspected to be security risks due to Michael doing research about and communicating with a Communist country for a term paper. b: 27-Jan-1976 pc: 320 w: Bruce Howard d: Herbert Kenwith NOTE: This episode was videotaped on January 15, 1976.

58. J.J. in Trouble gs: Dulcie Jordan (Nurse) Jay Leno (Young Man) Ron Recasner (Doctor) Ta-Tanisha (Mary Ann) When the children are left at home for the weekend, J.J. receives bad news that he has given VD to an ex-girlfriend. This leads an embarrassed J.J. to debate on whether or not to visit a free clinic for treatment. b: 03-Feb-1976 pc: 321 w: Roger Shulman & John Baskin d: Herbert Kenwith NOTE: The Tonight Show host, Jay Leno makes a guest appearance as a young man at a clinic. This episode was videotaped on January 22, 1976.

59. Florida the Woman gs: Beverly Kushida (Waitress) Thalmus Rasulala (Oscar Harris) After a morning of being take granted for by her children and her husband, Florida decides to take her boss up on a lunch invitation. This eventually leads to a confrontation with a jealous James. b: 17-Feb-1976 pc: 322 w: Jay Sommers d: Herbert Kenwith

60. The Break Up gs: Alan Brasington (Waiter) Carl Franklin (Larry Walters) Debbi Morgan (Samantha) Thelma's fiancee's idea of romance is taking her to a basketball game but that is the least of her worries after he gets a big break in California leaving her with two options, stay with her family in Chicago or move to California with her fiancee. b: 24-Feb-1976 pc: 323 w: Bob Peete d: Herbert Kenwith

61. The Rent Party gs: Helen Martin (Wanda) Johnny Brown (Nathan Bookman) The Evans family decides to hold a rent party to help out a neighbor in the building whose electricity has just been turned off. However, the party may come to a quick halt when the heartless building superintendent catches wind of it. b: 02-Mar-1976 pc: 324 w: Roger Shulman & John Baskin d: Herbert Kenwith NOTE: John Amos makes his final appearance as James Evans. This episode was videotaped on February 19, 1976.

Season 4

62. The Big Move (1) gs: Johnny Brown (Nathan Bookman) Rose Marie Cooper (Olivia) Kimberlee Nickerson (Louanne) The family is getting ready to move to Mississippi which is where James has gotten a promising new job. However, the family is waiting for the right time to tell Bookman the news. Later, Willona throws a going-away party but the happiness is interrupted by heartbreaking news that James has been killed in a car accident. b: 22-Sep-1976 pc: 401 w: Austin Kalish & Irma Kalish d: Gerren Keith NOTE: The series is now airing on Wednesdays.

63. The Big Move (2) gs: Johnny Brown (Nathan Bookman) Helen Martin (Wanda) Irwin C. Watson (Calvin Ferguson) Nick LaTour (Reverend Gordon) Minnie Summers Lindsey (Mrs. Gordon) Henry Harris (Man #1) Lee Weaver (Man #2) Stymie Beard (Monty) Raymond Allen (Ned the Wino (uncredited)) The death of James has J.J., Thelma and Michael overcome with grief and also leaves them wondering what is wrong with Florida, who hasn't cried once since she found out the news of James' death. During a get-together at the apartment after James' funeral, the kids plan to confront Florida, who is seen laughing and having a great time. b: 29-Sep-1976 pc: 402 w: Lou Derman & Bill Davenport d: Gerren Keith NOTE: Stymie Beard makes his final appearance in the recurring role of Monty.

64. J.J. and the Older Woman gs: Rosalind Cash (Jessica Bishop) Thelma's teacher is awed by J.J.'s painting abilities and a romance soon develops between the two, despite an age difference. However, the age difference is a problem for one person, Florida who isn't quite sure of J.J.'s take on the relationship. b: 06-Oct-1976 pc: 403 w: Bruce Howard & Sid Dorfman s: Bruce Howard d: Gerren Keith NOTE: The series now enters a new phase, Florida, now a widow trying to raise her three kids in the ghetto. This episode was videotaped on July 29, 1976.

65. Michael the Warlord gs: Vivian Bonnell (Clara) Royce Wallace (Nettie) Earl Billings (Mr. Parker) Lincoln Kilpatrick Jr. (Ratbone) Paul Jackson (Tank) Reginald T. Dorsey (Earl) Dion Gossett (Melvin) Widespread violence has been running rampant in the neighborhood and a large part of it is due to the street gang, the Warlords. While Florida and some concerned citizens discuss the problem, Michael does his best to conceal a secret from his mother, he himself is a member of the gang. b: 13-Oct-1976 pc: 404 w: Bob Peete d: Gerren Keith

66. Michael's Great Romance gs: Ta-Ronce Allen (Yvonne) Michael is in love with Yvonne but every time he's around her he freezes. When Yvonne meets J.J. she instantly falls for him thus creating a sibling rivalry between Michael and J.J. b: 20-Oct-1976 pc: 408 w: Gerren Keith d: Kim Weiskopf & Michael S. Baser

67. Evans Versus Davis gs: Albert Reed (Alderman Fred Davis) Bill Cobbs (Mr. Gillard) Dorothy Butts (Mrs. Gillard) Elroy Davis (Man #1) Floyd Walls, Jr. (Man #2) Frances E. Nealy (Woman) Reginald Farmer (Heckler) Tony Burton (Aide) Johnny Brown (Nathan Bookman) Alderman Davis makes a visit to the Evans' household wanting J.J. to speak at his re-election campaign. However, when J.J. refuses, an eviction notice is immediately handed to Florida. b: 27-Oct-1976 pc: 410 w: Coslough Johnson & Sid Dorfman s: Coslough Johnson d: Gerren Keith

68. J.J.'s New Career (1) gs: Johnny Brown (Nathan Bookman) Susan Batson (Clerk) Andre Edwards (Ernie) Grand Bush (Leon) After loosing his job, J.J. tries his best to find a job. However, when Bookman serves the Evans' family with an eviction notice due to late rent, J.J. decides to take a job offer from a couple of his shady friends. Meanwhile, Thelma contemplates dropping out of college to get a full time job and help the family out. b: 10-Nov-1976 pc: 405 w: Roger Shulman & John Baskin d: Gerren Keith

69. J.J.'s New Career (2) gs: Alan Manson (Fred) Andre Edwards (Ernie) Grand Bush (Leon) Chip Hurd (Rochelle) John Dewey-Carter (Detective #1) F. William Parker (Detective #2) Bernard Stevenson (Moving Man) J.J. is in the money, now that he has a new job working with two friends in a gambling operation. However, little does he know, the gambling business also includes prostitution and drugs. Meanwhile, Florida demands some answers from J.J. and kicks him out when she learns what line of work he is now in. b: 17-Nov-1976 pc: 406 w: Roger Shulman & John Baskin d: Gerren Keith

70. Grandpa's Visit gs: Richard Ward (Henry Evans) Paulene Myers (Lena) Grandpa Evans visits the family for Thanksgiving and brings along the lady in his life, Lena. However, when Florida learns of their "special" living arrangements she throws a tantrum over morals. b: 24-Nov-1976 pc: 412 w: Roger Shulman & John Baskin s: Kurt Taylor & Booker Bradshaw d: Gerren Keith

71. Rich is Better Than Poor . . . Maybe gs: Tamu Blackwell (Edna) Shirley Hemphill (Rozzie) James Wheaton (Bank Manager) Some good luck strikes the family when J.J. wins a lottery. However, the luck doesn't last long, that is until, Thelma's friend Edna shows up with her sister both wielding pistols and demanding the winning money. b: 08-Dec-1976 pc: 407 w: Allan Manings & Norman Paul d: Gerren Keith NOTE: Shirley Hemphill is better known for her role as Shirley Wilson on What's Happening!! This episode was videotaped on September 2, 1976.

72. Florida's Night Out gs: Bhetty Waldron (Girl) Brad Jose (Mr. Good Looking) Dap Sugar Willie (Lenny) Susan Batson (Barmaid) Victor Fisher (Sharple) Julius Harris (Ben) Thomas Carter (Jerry) Johnny Brown (Nathan Bookman) The kids feel Florida has been spending too much time alone and they decide to cancel their plans and spend an evening with her. But Florida surprises them all and goes out with Willona. Willona takes her to a local night spot where they have an exciting evening. b: 15-Dec-1976 pc: 409 w: Norman Belkin & Harriet Belkin d: Gerren Keith

73. The Judy Cohen Story gs: Judith Cohen (Herself) Bill Henderson (Nightclub Owner) William Pierson (Marty Mitchell) Dick Gjonola (Jack Simmons) Thomas Powl (Dwayne Collins) Marvin Adams Jr. (Raymond Harris) Joe Coffey (Otis Johnson). J.J. is managing Michael's singing group and gets them a gig at a local tavern. While there, J.J. comes across Judith Cohen, an act whom he knows will hit it big, given the right exposure. b: 22-Dec-1976 pc: 411 w: Nance McCormick & John Donley d: Gerren Keith

74. The Comedian and the Loan Sharks gs: James Spinks (Man #1) Juan DeCarlos (Man #2) Teddy Wilson (Byrd) Gary Veney (Tyrone) J.J. borrows money from a loan shark to back his talented new comedian. However, within days, two thugs come to collect their money, money that J.J. doesn't have. b: 05-Jan-1977 pc: 413 w: Hugh Wedlock Jr. & Jack Matcha d: Gerren Keith

75. The Hustle gs: Johnny Brown (Nathan Bookman) Jinaki (Old Lady) Betty Cole (Woman #1 (uncredited)) Frances E. Nealy (Woman #2 (uncredited)) Dave Turner (Man #1 (uncredited)) Florida's bad mood prompts the kids to go into the underwear selling business in order to raise enough money to send Florida on a vacation to Lake Geneva. b: 12-Jan-1977 pc: 417 w: Levi Taylor d: Gerren Keith

76. Thelma's African Romance (1) gs: Johnny Sekka (Ibe Wubila) Bob Harcum (Richard) Carl M. Craig (Mr. Rogers) Vernee Watson-Johnson (Valerie) Thelma organizes a boycott over the school cafeteria food which results in her suspension from college. Meanwhile, Thelma falls for a foreign exchange student and he makes a proposition, living together. b: 19-Jan-1977 pc: 415 w: Bob Peete d: Gerren Keith NOTE: Part 1 was postponed on January 12, 1977.

77. Thelma's African Romance (2) gs: Johnny Sekka (Ibe Wubila) Florida hits the roof when Thelma announces her plans of moving in with Ibe. However, things begin moving a little bit too fast when Ibe asks her to marry him and move to Nigeria. b: 19-Jan-1977 pc: 416 w: Bob Peete d: Gerren Keith

78. Willona's Surprise gs: Carl Lee (Ray Woods) Willona gets a surprise for her birthday, a visit from her womanizing ex-husband, Ray. Ray does his best at convincing Willona that he's changed and she decides to try to start over with him. However, quickly his old ways surface and he begins making passes at Thelma. b: 26-Jan-1977 pc: 414 w: Austin Kalish & Irma Kalish d: Gerren Keith

79. A Friend in Need gs: Debbi Morgan (Ellen) Ralph Wilcox (Robert) Ta-Ronce Allen (Yvonne) Rana Ford (Marcia) Jeffrey Hollis (Cool Dude) When Florida's away for the weekend, J.J., Thelma and Michael throw a wild party. However, it gets even wilder than they had dreamed of when one of the guests takes an overdose of pills and J.J. has to save his life. b: 02-Feb-1977 pc: 418 w: Roger Shulman & John Baskin d: Gerren Keith

80. A Stormy Relationship gs: Davis Roberts (Mr. Barnes) Moses Gunn (Carl Dixon) Florida is horrified to learn that Michael is harboring atheist attitudes planted by his boss. This leads Florida to confront Michael's boss and get to the bottom of the situation. b: 09-Feb-1977 pc: 419 w: Ron Sellz & Bruce Kalish d: Gerren Keith NOTE: Moses Gunn makes his first appearance in the recurring role of Carl Dixon.

81. Florida and Carl gs: Moses Gunn (Carl Dixon) Bill Story (Waiter) A reluctant Florida agrees to go on a date with Carl. However, once at the restaurant, she gets into an argument with him ending with him walking out. b: 23-Feb-1977 pc: 420 w: Roger Shulman & John Baskin d: Gerren Keith

82. My Son, the Father gs: Moses Gunn (Carl Dixon) William Sims (Charlie) J.J. is all excited about taking Michael to a father-son dinner but when Michael breaks the news that he invited Carl to take him, J.J. storms out. b: 02-Mar-1977 pc: 421 w: Sid Dorfman d: Gerren Keith

83. J.J. in Business gs: Moses Gunn (Carl Dixon) Johnny Brown (Nathan Bookman) Alice Ghostley (Ms. Austin) Dean Norton (Mr. Lawrence) Henry G. Sanders (Curtis Gordon) Larry Robinson (Damon Stevenson) Marilyn Joi (Karen Casey) J.J. and some of his friends have opened a greeting card business and they're all excited when they start getting large orders. However, their accountant has some bad news, they only have $68, so J.J. considers applying for a loan. b: 09-Mar-1977 pc: 424 w: Bob Peete d: Gerren Keith

84. Love Has a Spot on His Lung (1) gs: Moses Gunn (Carl Dixon) Raymond Allen (Ned the Wino) Dap Sugar Willie (Lenny) Mel Bryant (Bartender) Gwyn Karon (Woman) Florida and Carl's relationship has gotten quite serious and Carl breaks the news to J.J., Thelma and Michael that he's planning on proposing marriage to Florida. However, after a visit to his doctor, Carl decides to break off the relationship, since he's been diagnosed with lung cancer. b: 23-Mar-1977 pc: 422 w: Allan Manings and Austin Kalish & Irma Kalish d: Gerren Keith

85. Love Has a Spot on His Lung (2) gs: Moses Gunn (Carl Dixon) Johnny Brown (Nathan Bookman) Richard Libertini (Painter #1) MacIntyre Dixon (Painter #2) Billy Wallace (Cop) Buzz Cooper (Jerome) A furious J.J. confronts Carl, who makes up an excuse that a war injury in the groin is the reason why he's breaking up with Florida. However, later Carl reveals the truth to Florida and he proposes marriage and she readily accepts. b: 30-Mar-1977 pc: 423 w: Roger Shulman & John Baskin d: Gerren Keith NOTE: Esther Rolle makes her final appearance until the fall of 1978. This episode was videotaped on February 24, 1977.

Season 5

86. The Evans Get Involved (1) gs: Chip Hurd (Mrs. Gordon) Ronalda Douglas (Charlene) When a young girl, Penny Gordon follows J.J. home, she quickly insinuates herself into the Evans household and makes up stories about her life, including forgetting to mention she has an abusive mother. Florida calls from Arizona, which is where she is honeymooning with Carl.

b: 21-Sep-1977 pc: 502 w: Austin Kalish & Irma Kalish d: Gerren Keith NOTE: Johnny Brown officially joins the cast as Nathan Bookman. Janet Jackson joins the cast as Penny Gordon.

87. The Evans Get Involved (2) gs: Chip Hurd (Mrs. Gordon) Bob Delegall (Dr. Blake) Kathleen Doyle (Mrs. Carpenter) Sarina C. Grant (Nurse) Renny Roker (Patrolman) Alma Beltran (Mrs. Lopez) Stymie Beard (Mr. Edwards) Willona and the Evans children are convinced that Penny is being abused, but when Willona takes Penny to see a doctor about a broken arm, he refuses to believe she's being abused. b: 21-Sep-1977 pc: 503 w: Sid Dorfman d: Gerren Keith

88. The Evans Get Involved (3) gs: Chip Hurd (Mrs. Gordon) Kathleen Doyle (Mrs. Carpenter) Willona and the Evans kids are stunned to discover that Penny and her mother have moved. They are equally stunned when they discover Penny hiding the Evans apartment. Later, Penny's abusive mother abandons her leaving Willona to ponder adopting the battered youth. b: 28-Sep-1977 pc: 504 w: Lloyd Turner & Gordon Mitchell d: Gerren Keith

89. The Evans Get Involved (4) gs: Alice Ghostley (Mrs. Dodds) Willona worries over whether or not she will be able to adopt Penny. Meanwhile, a well meaning, Bookman, tries to help out by telling the social worker, that he's married to Willona, this only makes things worse when the social worker learns the truth. b: 05-Oct-1977 pc: 505 w: Austin Kalish & Irma Kalish d: Gerren Keith

90. Thelma Moves Out gs: Hilly Hicks (Paul) Yahee (Karen) Bobby F. Ellerbee (Alvin) William J. Quinn (Bear) Fed up with having no privacy and being burdened by two brothers, Thelma decides to move out and into an apartment that is shared by three other roommates. b: 12-Oct-1977 pc: 506 w: Kim Weiskopf & Michael S. Baser d: Gerren Keith

91. Willona, the Fuzz gs: Conchata Ferrell (Miss Johnson) Gordon Jump (Mr. Rogers) Dap Sugar Willie (Lenny) Willona is offered a new job but her morals force her to refuse it. However, when Penny has her heart set on figure skating lessons, Willona decides to set her morals and values aside and take the job for the extra money. b: 19-Oct-1977 pc: 507 w: Sid Dorfman , Richard Freiman s: Richard Freiman d: Gerren Keith NOTE: Gordon Jump is better known for his role on WKRP in Cincinnati.

92. Wheels gs: Larry Beecham (Cool Breeze) Earl Billings (Mr. Taylor) T.K. Carter (Head) Randy Martin (Poppo) J.J. and his friends become partners in the ownership of car, a car that they foolishly bought from Bookman. However, the quality of the car is minor compared to the constant fighting over who gets to use it. b: 02-Nov-1977 pc: 508 w: Al Schwartz & Bill Freedman, Kim Weiskopf & Michael S. Baser s: Al Schwartz & Bill Freedman d: Gerren Keith

93. Breaker, Breaker gs: Sharon Brown (Fun Girl) F. William Parker (Mad Trucker (voice only)) Taurean Blacque (Chopper (voice only)) Al White (Sampson (voice only)) Roberta Jean Williams (Lady Lou (voice only)) Michael passes himself off as J.J. while using a CB radio and quickly discovers he's not the only one who's putting on an act. A girl he contacts who calls herself Fun Girl really turns out to be a paraplegic. b: 09-Nov-1977 pc: 501 w: Elroy Schwartz d: Gerren Keith NOTE: Sharon Brown (Fun Girl) was Johnny Brown's (Bookman's) real-life daughter

94. Bye, Bye, Bookman gs: Albert Reed (Alderman Fred Davis) Marilyn Coleman (Violet Bookman) Mel Bryant (Janitor) The conditions in the building become to much for Willona, Penny and the Evans kids to bare so they decide to circulate a petition that would terminate Bookman as the superintendent. However, Bookman and his wife, hatch a plan to save his job. b: 16-Nov-1977 pc: 509 w: Paul M. Belous & Robert Wolterstorff d: Gerren Keith NOTE: Marilyn Coleman makes her first appearance as Nathan Bookman's wife, Violet.

95. Thelma's Brief Encounter gs: James A. Watson, Jr. (Lloyd Williams) Susan Batson (Waitress) Thelma begins dating a man named Lloyd Williams, however, suspicions run rampant between J.J., Willona and Michael who become convinced he's married. However, J.J. makes a discovery that surprises everyone. b: 07-Dec-1977 pc: 510 w: Bruce Kalish & Philip Wickham Taylor d: Gerren Keith

96. Requiem for a Wino gs: Robert Guillaume (Fishbone) Helen Martin (Wanda) Bill Henderson (Ray) Dap Sugar Willie (Lenny) J. Christopher Sullivan (Campbell) Cal Gibson (Vagrant) Fishbone, a wino, complains that he has no friends and quickly discovers he has many when a vagrant steals his wallet and is later killed in a car accident. Everyone assumes, Fishbone is the one that was killed and they hold a wake. b: 14-Dec-1977 pc: 511 w: Lloyd Turner & Gordon Mitchell d: Gerren Keith NOTE: Robert Guillaume is better known for his role on Benson.

97. Penny's Christmas gs: Alice Ghostley (Mrs. Dodds) Dap Sugar Willie (Santa Claus Lenny) Helen Verbit (Saleswoman) George Ranito Jordan (Security Man) After getting her wallet stolen, Penny steals a necklace from a department store in a desperate attempt to try to get Willona a Christmas gift. However, Penny's attempts may lead to Willona losing custody of her. b: 21-Dec-1977 pc: 515 w: Robert Stevenson & Rosalind Stevenson d: Gerren Keith

98. No More Mr. Nice Guy gs: Wendell Wright (Sergeant) Sarina C. Grant (Lavonne) Calvin Oliver (Howard) Dap Sugar Willie (Lenny) Bill Woodard (Police Officer) Michael's apathetic behavior towards household chores and homework leads J.J. to put his foot down and to step in as a father figure. He really comes down hard when Michael and Penny are arrested for being in a stolen vehicle. b: 04-Jan-1978 pc: 514 w: Tom Dunsmuir & Dan Wilcox d: Gerren Keith

99. Willona's Mr. Right gs: Adam Wade (Frank Mason) Willona's old boyfriend arrives back in town and asks Willona her hand in marraige. However, Willona turns him down since his job would have her and Penny constantly moving. Meanwhile, Penny, feeling like she's holding Willona back, decides to run away. b: 11-Jan-1978 pc: 513 w: Laura Levine d: Gerren Keith

100. J.J. and the Boss' Daughter gs: Tanya Boyd (Val) J. Jay Saunders (Mr. Harris) Patrick Collins (Warren) T.K. Carter (Head) Randy Martin (Poppo) J.J. is given a sexy assistant, one whom he makes a play for immediately. However, later when he learns that she's the boss's daughter, he continues to go out with her thinking that it will give him special privileges with his boss. b: 18-Jan-1978 pc: 516 w: Bob Baublitz & Kevin Hopps, Kim Weiskopf & Michael S. Baser s: Bob Baublitz & Kevin Hopps d: Gerren Keith NOTE: Tanya Boyd is better known as the clairvoyant Celeste on NBC's Days of Our Lives.

101. Where There's Smoke gs: Brenda Sykes (Mandy) A hole has been burned into one of the couch cushions and J.J., Thelma and Michael each have their own versions of how it got there. However, Penny is the only person who knows the truth of how it really got there. b: 25-Jan-1978 pc: 517 w: Bruce Kalish & Philip Wickham Taylor d: Gerren Keith

102. I Had a Dream gs: Sorrell Booke (Mr. Galbraith) Dennis Howard (White J.J.) Richard Lawson (Raymond) Candy Mobley (Carmen) J.J. wants a promotion at work but a co-worker convinces him that the promotion will only go to a white man. This leads J.J. to have a crazy dream where he gets to experience being white. b: 30-Jan-1978 pc: 512 w: Jim Rogers d: Gerren Keith NOTE: The series is now airing on Mondays. Sorrell Booke is better known for his role on The Dukes of Hazzard as Boss Hogg.

103. The Boarder gs: Taurean Blacque (Dunbar Jr.) Hank Rolike (Dunbar Sr.) Rozelle Gayle (Frazee) Gammy Burdett (Mrs. Dunbar) Dianne O. Dixon (Lady) B.J. Douglas (Delivery Man) To pick up extra money for the rent, J.J. decides to take in a boarder. However, little does he know the man he takes in, is placed their by the police department for his protection. b: 06-Feb-1978 pc: 518 w: Don Segall d: Gerren Keith

104. J.J.'s Condition gs: Fay Hauser (Barbara) Justin Lord (Ernie) J.J.'s latest relationship with a woman, Barbara, who's currently married but plans on divorcing her husband, results with him coming down with an ulcer. The situation is compounded when J.J. learns that her husband and her still share an apartment. b: 13-Feb-1978 pc: 520 w: Bill Nuss & Dusty Kay d: Gerren Keith

105. Willona, the Other Woman gs: Marilyn Coleman (Violet Bookman) Hope Clarke (Brenda Gordon) Bookman's strange behavior leads his wife, Violet to become convinced that he's seeing another woman. However, appearances can be deceiving especially when Violet catches Willona and Bookman in a compromising situation. b: 27-Feb-1978 pc: 521 w: Michael Moye d: Gerren Keith

106. Something Old, Something New gs: Richard Ward (Henry Evans) Paulene Myers (Lena) DeForest Covan (Rev. Beasley) Grandpa Evans visits and has plans of becoming rich thanks to his new invention. Meanwhile, Lena, Grandpa's fiancee gets tired of being ignored and decides to leave him. b: 13-Mar-1978 pc: 519 w: Sid Dorfman d: Gerren Keith

107. Willona's New Job gs: Adam Wade (Frank Mason) Veronica Redd (Mavis) Cal Wilson (Skip Casey) Willona's boyfriend, Frank, continues his efforts to try to get her to marry him. Meanwhile, down at the boutique, Willona gets a promotion but Frank is determined to get her to turn down the offer. b: 20-Mar-1978 pc: 523 w: Michael Moye d: Gerren Keith

108. Write On, Thelma gs: Jane Connell (Miss Flicker) DeForest Covan (Shorty) Thelma has written a full length play and is ecstatic when it is chosen to be produced as the local theater's latest production. Thelma quickly realizes a few changes to her manuscript may be needed, but it soon feels like almost everything will need to be changed to please the theater owner. b: 27-Mar-1978 pc: 522 w: Judi Ann Mason d: Gerren Keith

109. That's Entertainment, Evans Style gs: Gary Coleman (Gary James) b: 03-Apr-1978 pc: 524 w: Kim Weiskopf & Michael S. Baser d: Gerren Keith NOTE: Gary Coleman, better known for his role on Diff'rent Strokes, makes his first guest appearance as Gary James.

Season 6

110. Florida's Homecoming (1) The Evans children and Willona are pleasantly shocked to learn that Thelma has been dating the nationally renowned football player Keith Anderson, a Heisman Trophy candidate currently negotiating a 1,000,000 dollar professional contract with the Chicago Bears. When Keith proposes it only remains for Thelma to phone her mother in Arizona to ask her blessing. b: 16-Sep-1978 pc: 601 w: Kim Weiskopf & Michael S. Baser s: Kim Weiskopf and Michael S. Baser & Norman Paul d: Gerren Keith NOTE: The series is now airing on Saturdays. Esther Rolle returns to the series as Florida Evans. It should be stated that the fate of Florida's second husband, Carl Dixon, was never revealed. From this point on, it's as if he never existed.

111. Florida's Homecoming (2) gs: Teddy Wilson (Sweet Daddy Williams) Robert Kya-Hill (Mr. Patterson) Taunya Reed (Secretary) Eugene Lee (Man) Florida arrives home after hearing the news of Thelma's engagement. However, Thelma's impending wedding may never take place, that is if she lets her pre-wedding jitters get the best of her. Meanwhile, J.J. loses his job. b: 16-Sep-1978 pc: 602 w: Joseph Bonaduce & Sid Dorfman s: Joseph Bonaduce & Norman Paul d: Gerren Keith

112. Florida's Homecoming: The Wedding gs: Teddy Wilson (Sweet Daddy Williams) Helen Martin (Wanda) Al Fann (Minister) Irv Burton (Freddie) Rai Tasco (Caterer) After losing his job, J.J. takes out a $1,000 loan from Sweet Daddy Williams, to pay for Thelma's wedding. The wedding finally goes off without a hitch, but after the ceremony the couples' exit down the aisle ends with Keith breaking his leg. b: 23-Sep-1978 pc: 603 w: Sid Dorfman & Wayne Kline s: Norman Paul d: Gerren Keith

113. Florida's Homecoming: United We Stand gs: Teddy Wilson (Sweet Daddy Williams) Bubba Smith (Claude) Larry Greene (Hood #2) After breaking his leg, Keith must face the fact that he's lost the $1,000,0000 dollar football contract and now he's unemployed and living in the ghetto. Meanwhile, Sweet Daddy Williams arrives at the Evans' home to collect the $1,000 loan he made with J.J. plus interest. b: 30-Sep-1978 pc: 604 w: Joseph Bonaduce & Bruce Howard s: Joseph Bonaduce and Bruce Howard & Norman Paul d: Gerren Keith

114. Florida Gets a Job gs: Gary Coleman (Gary James) Janet MacLachlan (Sandra Forbes) Albert Reed (Alderman Fred Davis) Both Florida and J.J. are looking for work but neither are having any luck. One ad, in the newspaper, for part-time work as a school bus driver sparks Florida's attention, but when Alderman Fred Davis becomes involved, it appears Florida may not have a chance, because one of his relatives is also applying for the position. b: 07-Oct-1978 pc: 606 w: Michael Moye d: Gerren Keith

115. Stomach Mumps Willona adamently refuses to discuss the birds and the bees with Penny especially after Willona learns a 13-year old friend of Penny's is pregnant. This leads Willona to tell Penny, that her friend has stomach mumps and not to go near her. b: 14-Oct-1978 pc: 605 w: Michael Moye d: Gerren Keith

116. J.J. the Teacher gs: Ernest Harden, Jr. (Earl Mitchell) Hal Williams (Frank Mitchell) Rose Parrish (Donna) J.J.'s student has to deal with a violent father who ademently refuses to allow his son to take art lessons from J.J., even though J.J. offers to give them for free. b: 21-Oct-1978 pc: 607 w: Mark Fink d: Gerren Keith

117. Michael's Decision gs: Howard Morton (Jim Crebbins) DeAnn Mears (Julia Crebbins) Nancy Morgan (Cindy Crebbins) Michael is fed up with the apartment being cramped and makes a decision to move out which sends Florida in an uproar. However, this turns out to be just the tip of the iceburg when he also reveals that he plans to share an apartment with a white girl. b: 08-Nov-1978 pc: 608 w: Gene Farmer s: Norman Paul d: Gerren Keith NOTE: This episode aired on a Wednesday. Janet Jackson does not appear in this episode

118. J.J. and the Plumber's Helper gs: Sheryl Lee Ralph (Vanessa Blake) Bever-Leigh Banfield (T.C.) Maurice Marsac (Francois) J.J.'s old flame arrives back in town and J.J. must face telling her that he recently lost his job. However, he has a little trouble in doing so, especially since she's just dragged him out to an expensive restaurant and has an expensive night planned. b: 02-Dec-1978 pc: 610 w: Michael Moye d: Gerren Keith NOTE: Sheryl Lee Ralph is better known for her roles on It's a Living and Moesha.

119. The Witness gs: Teddy Wilson (Sweet Daddy Williams) Bubba Smith (Claude) Beverly Hope Atkinson (Savannah Morgan) William Lanteau (Mr. Miller) J.J. is the sole witness in a car accident between Sweet Daddy Williams' girl, Savannah Morgan and Keith, whose arm lands in a sling. Realizing that the accident was Savannah's fault, Sweet Daddy, threatens J.J.'s life if he doesn't keep what he saw quiet. b: 09-Dec-1978 pc: 609 w: Bruce Howard & Joseph Bonaduce s: Bruce Howard d: Gerren Keith NOTE: Esther Rolle does not appear in this episode.

120. The Snow Storm gs: Timmie Rogers (Wino) Kim Fields (Kim) Anthony Thompkins (Alex) A snowstorm hits Chicago and Florida gets stuck in it with her school bus. This leads her and the kids on the bus to take refuge in an abandoned building to keep warm. b: 13-Dec-1978 pc: 614 w: Bud Slocomb & Len Riley d: Gerren Keith NOTE: The series is now airing on Wednesdays. Jimmie Walker does not appear in this episode. Kim Fields is better known for her role as Tootie Ramsey on The Facts of Life.

121. The Traveling Christmas gs: Harry Caesar (Mr. Clements) When Keith's Scrooge-like boss at the taxi-cab company won't give him Christmas off, the Evans family brings their Christmas party to Keith and holds at the company. J.J. hosts the festvities and it features Michael singing, Bookman (dressed as Santa) dancing, Keith doing impersonations & the girls (Florida, Penny, Willona & Thelma) portraying "The Pointless Sisters" doing "Steam Heat". b: 20-Dec-1978 pc: 615 w: Wayne Kline & Norman Paul s: Sid Dorfman d: Gerren Keith

122. House Hunting gs: Charles Siebert (A.J. Rutherford) The Evans family has found the perfect home to move into and plan on taking out a loan to pay for it. However, they quickly find, as usual, that that's easier said then done, when they run into trouble trying to perusade the banker. b: 03-Jan-1979 pc: 611 w: Gene Farmer d: Gerren Keith NOTE: The series goes on hiatus until May of 1979.

123. Florida's Favorite Passenger (1) gs: Bebe Drake (Mrs. Baker) Derek Wells (Larry Baker) A student whom Florida drives to school on her bus, becomes the center of attention when Florida discovers he has a hearing problem and his mother refuses to believe Florida's suspicions. b: 23-May-1979 pc: 612 w: Michael Moye d: Gerren Keith NOTE: Jimmie Walker does not appear in this episode.

124. Florida's Favorite Passenger (2) gs: Bebe Drake (Mrs. Baker) Derek Wells (Larry Baker) Paul Savior (Doctor Casey) Dap Sugar Willie (Lenny) Ebony Wright (Woman) Sibyl Motley (Nurse) After a near fatal accident, Larry's mother finally realizes that Larry has a hearing problem. Unable to take him to the doctor because she has to work, Mrs. Baker allows Florida to take him to the doctor, which is where Larry makes the announcement that he plans on running away from home. b: 30-May-1979 pc: 613 w: Michael Moye d: Gerren Keith NOTE: Jimmie Walker does not appear in this episode. Dap Sugar Willie makes his final appearance in the recurring role of Lenny.

125. Blood Will Tell gs: Teddy Wilson (Sweet Daddy Williams) David Damas (Bad News) George Reynolds (Hood #1) Larry Greene (Hood #2) Kathleen Bradley (Nurse) Sweet Daddy Williams sends his hoods to snatch J.J. from his home and bring him to the hospital. His reasons: J.J. is the only person they could find that match's Sweet Daddy's blood type and Sweet Daddy is in dire need of a blood transfusion. b: 06-Jun-1979 pc: 618 w: Anthony Bonaduce & Celia Bonaduce d: Gerren Keith NOTE: Esther Rolle does not appear in this episode. Teddy Wilson makes his final appearance in the recurring role of Sweet Daddy Williams.

126. Where Have All the Doctors Gone? gs: Paula Kelly (Dr. Kelly) When Willona goes out of town, she leaves Penny in Florida's care. Shortly after, Penny comes down with a virus and Florida takes her down to the free clinic to be examined. Florida quickly comes face to face with the hardnosed doctor who's out of touch with the people in the ghetto and who's also planning to leave, right in the middle of what seems to be an epidemic. b: 13-Jun-1979 pc: 621 w: Mark Fink & Judi Ann Mason s: Carmen Finestra d: Gerren Keith

127. J.J. and T.C. gs: Ronalda Douglas (T.C.) Mel Carter (Macho Guy) Ta-Tanisha (Zodiac Girl) Paul Mooney (Guy #2) A tomboy who's been helping out Bookman, wants J.J. to ask her to a dance. However, J.J. thinks of her as just one of the guys, that is until he has an encounter with her at a seedy pick-up bar. b: 20-Jun-1979 pc: 624 w: Mark Fink & Wayne Kline d: Gerren Keith NOTE: Esther Rolle does not appear in this episode.

128. The Physical gs: Kim Fields (Kim) Charles Hallahan (Sergeant) Sarina C. Grant (Bessie) Helen Martin (Wanda) Stack Pierce (Police Officer) Florida discovers she must take and pass a physical examination to keep her bus driving job. However, the night before her physical is utter chaos ending with Michael landing in jail. b: 11-Jul-1979 pc: 619 w: Bud Slocomb & Len Riley d: Gerren Keith NOTE: This episode was postponed on June 27, 1979. No other episodes aired in it's place. Helen Martin makes her final appearance in the recurring role of Wanda.

129. A Matter of Mothers gs: Rod Perry (Jeffrey) Chip Hurd (Mrs. Gordon) Dave Turner (Officer Giles) John Witherspoon (Officer Lawson) Barry Cutler (Worm) Willona's latest boyfriend, Jeffrey, has been showering her and Penny with extravagant gifts even though they've only been seeing one another for a couple months. Little does Willona know, that he is part of a plan to make Willona look like an unfit mother, a plan engineered by Penny's birth mother. b: 18-Jul-1979 pc: 620 w: Michael Moye s: Jacqueline Henken d: Gerren Keith NOTE: Jimmie Walker, BernNadette Stanis and Ben Powers do not appear in this episode.

130. The Evans' Dilemma gs: Daryl Roach (Joe Stennet) Keith's search for a job results in strange behavior that everyone plainly points out is not just frustration, but rather a bigger problem. Little does anyone know, Keith has developed a serious drinking problem. b: UNAIRED pc: 616 w: Cecil M. Brown & Michael Moye s: Cecil M. Brown d: Gerren Keith NOTE: The airdate for this episode has not been verified. It is most likely that CBS left this episode unaired since there are no listings for it in old TV Guides. # Esther Rolle does not appear in this episode.

131. The Art Contest gs: Albert Reed (Alderman Fred Davis) Renee Brown (Emily) Ron Trice (Leo) Lil Greenwood (Belinda Robbins) J.J. has been contending with his art students and an upcoming art contest has J.J. sure that he will win. However, when J.J. forgets his entry he has Bookman bring his painting down, only to discover Bookman grabbed the wrong painting and J.J. doesn't discover this until he wins the award. b: UNAIRED pc: 617 w: Joseph Bonaduce d: Gerren Keith NOTE: The airdate for this episode has not been verified. It is most likely that CBS left this episode unaired since there are no listings for it in old TV Guides. Albert Reed makes his final appearance in the recurring role of Alderman Fred Davis.

132. Cousin Raymond gs: Calvin Lockhart (Raymond) Eileen Saki (Waitress) Takayo Doran (Hostess) Edwetta Little (Living Cable #1) Ebony Wright (Living Cable #2) Barbara Isaacs (Living Cable #3) Florida gets a surprise visit from her cousin, Raymond, who has hit it big and gives each member of the family an expensive gift. However, Florida is reluctant to accept her gift of an expensive three room apartment, when she learns just how Raymond makes his money. b: UNAIRED pc: 622 w: Walter Smith & Bill Duke d: Gerren Keith NOTE: The airdate for this episode has not been verified. It is most likely that CBS left this episode unaired since there are no listings for it in old TV Guides.

133. The End of the Rainbow This final episode brings all too good news for the Evans family. J.J. gets an offer to a comic company, Keith's bad knee is miraculously healed and is offered another football contract, and Florida is asked if she wants to move in with Keith and Thelma in the fancy apartment building across town where Willona happens to be moving and just so happens to be her future next door neighbor. b: 01-Aug-1979 pc: 623 w: Mark Fink & Wayne Kline d: Gerren Keith