Marla Gibbs is ready to share her story like never before. The 94-year-old actress will release her long-awaited memoir It’s Never Too Late in early 2026. The memoir promises to give an honest and personal story that goes beyond the person often seen on the screen, while Amistad, a renowned African American imprint under HarperCollins, will publish it.
Gibbs is best known for her roles in The Jeffersons and 227 from decades ago. Now, she is finally giving fans a close look at the life that defined her decades-long journey in Hollywood. She opens up about her early years, when she was still unknown, as well as the moments that shaped her career. Recently, the cover was revealed, showing Gibbs smiling, looking youthful and confident.
Inside Marla Gibbs’ new memoir
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Although the beloved actress is now widely recognized, Marla Gibbs had humble beginnings, and her journey was far from smooth. When her father died at 16, she began to live with her mother and stepfather. Later, she traveled to Los Angeles, where she started carving out a space for herself in Hollywood as an actress, producer, singer, writer, comedian, and advocate for industry equity.
Her memoir, It’s Never Too Late, details the hardships and resilience that helped her career, including how her role as Florence Johnston, the maid in The Jeffersons, earned multiple Emmy nominations. She later starred as Mary Jenkins on 227, which further made her a fan favorite. Gibbs also fought behind the scenes for better pay, more opportunities for Black actors, and control over her work.
Life lately
In recent years, Gibbs has continued to appear in shows like Black-ish, Young Sheldon, and Grey’s Anatomy. Just earlier this year, she was honored with the Hollywood Legacy Award at the American Black Film Festival Honors, an acknowledgment of her contributions to television and film.
Now, with her memoir slated for release on February 24, 2026, Gibbs is inviting readers to take the journey with her. She believes that the book will make them see that growth and change are always possible, regardless of age. It’s Never Too Late is now available for preorder.