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Mabel KingAmerican theater, film and television actress
Date of Birth: 25.12.1932
Country: ![]() |
Content:
- Mabel King: A Legacy of Stage, Screen, and Music
- Broadway Success and Screen Debut
- The Wiz and National Stardom
- Television Breakthrough and Iconic Role
- Notable Film Roles and Broadway Revival
- Later Career and Health Challenges
Mabel King: A Legacy of Stage, Screen, and Music
Early Life and Career BeginningsMabel King, born Donnie Mabel Elizabeth Washington on December 25, 1932, in Charleston, South Carolina, embarked on her artistic journey at a young age. Her family's relocation to Harlem, New York, fostered her love of music, leading her to a career as a nightclub singer of gospel and popular tunes.
Broadway Success and Screen Debut
King's transition to acting occurred later in life. In 1966, she portrayed Maria in the national touring company of "Porgy and Bess." Her Broadway debut followed in "Hello, Dolly!" (1967) and solidified her talent with "Don't Play Us Cheap" (1972). Her film debut came with the 1972 adaptation of the musical and the horror film "Ganja & Hess."
The Wiz and National Stardom
King's Broadway role as Evillene, the Wicked Witch of the West, in "The Wiz" (1975) earned her a Drama Desk Award nomination. The musical's all-black cast and her exceptional performance caught the attention of critics and filmmakers alike. The 1978 film adaptation featured Michael Jackson and Diana Ross and became King's second screen role based on an original musical.
Television Breakthrough and Iconic Role
In 1976, King landed her breakout television role as Mabel Thomas in the sitcom "What's Happening!!" for 37 episodes. Her portrayal of the loving and supportive mother of two mischievous boys brought her national fame. Despite producers' pleas for her to stay on, King left the show after its second season, leaving fans disappointed.
Notable Film Roles and Broadway Revival
King went on to play Steve Martin's foster mother in the comedy "The Jerk" (1979). In 1980, she returned to Broadway as Grandmother in "It's So Nice To Be Civilized," which unfortunately had a short-lived run.
Later Career and Health Challenges
King's career continued with guest appearances in popular television series, including "Fantasy Island," "Amazing Stories," and "Tales from the Darkside." In 1984, she reprised her role in "The Jerk, Too." Her final film appearances were in "Scrooged" (1988) and "Dead Men Don't Die" (1990).
Throughout her life, King struggled with diabetes. She underwent the amputation of a toe in 1986 and eventually lost both legs and an arm. In 1989, a stroke paralyzed the left side of her body and significantly impaired her speech. King resided in the Motion Picture & Television Country House and Hospital until her passing on November 9, 1999, at the age of 66, due to kidney failure resulting from diabetes complications. Her remains were cremated.