Rolle, Esther (1920–1998)

ROLLE, ESTHER (1920–1998). Actress. This native of Pompano Beach, Florida, became an accomplished actress in television and film, best known as Florida Evans, the outspoken maid from the sitcom Maude , and the spin off series Good Times . Before accepting the part, Rolle insisted that Good Times should have a strong father figure and be based around her home and family life, not on her work as a maid. She often clashed with the producers, fighting against racial stereotypes and insisting on more role models and a positive direction for the show. She began acting in stage productions with the Negro Ensemble Company in their productions of The Blacks, The Amen Corner , and A Raisin in the Sun .

Filmography: The Summer of My German Soldier , 1978; I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings , 1979; P. K. and the Kid , 1985; A Raisin in the Sun , 1989; The Mighty Quinn , 1989; Driving Miss Daisy , 1989; Age Old Friends , 1989; The Kid Who Loved Christmas , 1990; House of Cards , 1992; To Dance with the White Dog , 1993; Scarlet , 1994; How to Make an American Quilt , 1995; Rosewood , 1996; My Fellow Americans , 1996; Down in the Delta , 1998.