Lionel was the perfect foil for Archie Bunker. I'm surprised they didn't make him the foil for George (Sherman Helmsley) but then maybe that couldn't be done because the racial dynamic wasn't there.
Mike Evans was great on All in the Family and on The Jefferson’s. He gave Lionel a presence that I don’t think anyone else could have given. May he RIP.
@M Wow 😃 didn’t know that! “What’s Happening” was my show. My younger sister and I loved watching those reruns after school. We knew all the episodes, We bought the dvd box set and got are kidz into it. They’re grown now and still luv them some Rodge and the crew 🤣🤣 Definitely a classic 👍🏾
Mike Evans IMHO was a breath of fresh air on the show. He made every line count. His deadpan delivery was golden and I wish there was more film of him. RIP Mike we miss you.
While reading the comments, I ran across a line that made me laugh just as hard when Mike Evans' character, Lionel Jefferson , when asked he was kicked out of college. He said to Louise, "Well, you know the peace sign?" She replied, "Yeh, what's wrong with that?". He said, " Well, I , only gave him half of it!" HILARIOUS!!🤣🤣🤣🤣
He did not create good times a black man did it's not new news the guy his name I don't know but is seeking payment and acknowledgement for creating that and more shows
@@Floodcity-814 Mike Evans co-created Good Times with his friend Eric Monte. They are both black men. Monte grew up in the actual Chicago projects that the family in the show live in.
Yes, he did! And dude is black. And don't get me wrong, I'm not clapping back at'cha. But we're all just human and we all make mistakes. But he passed away a few years back. However, you are partially correct, at some point he had to take the studio to court to receive credit for creating Good Times. @@Floodcity-814
Went down the rabbit hole again and it turns out Isabel Sanford(Louise Jefferson) was 20 years older than Sherman Hemsley(George Jefferson), I was quite surprised by that. Also Zara Cully aka Mother Jefferson was born in 1892. Those were today's fun facts.
And both Lionel's, (Mike Evans and Damon Evans) was only 11 years younger than the tv dad George Jefferson (Sherman Hemsley). Sherman was born in 1938 and both Lionel's Mike Evans and Damon Evans were born in 1949.
Why couldn’t find actor at least about same age for couple instead 20 years different especially women one younger? She knew how make herself younger and bet he made himself older by not care so much his look or put in makeup make Hensley older.
All in the Family, The Jeffersons, Good Times, Mary Tyler Moore--the 70s was a Golden Age for comedy! Maybe there wasn't so much money, but we were rich in laughter!!! 😀
Well done, it was fabulous taking a step back into time when tv was at its finest. They don’t make them like they once did. RIP Mike Evans, Isabell Sanford, and Sherman Hensley
He was the first of the Jefferson family to go to the Bunkers household in All in the Family. I remember those days like it was yesterday. But the 70’s are behind us now , I just try to keep the memories alive by watching the old reruns of those infamously hilarious sitcoms. They don’t make shows like that anymore.
@@twanatee21 and the comment above mentioned the connection between The Jeffersons and Good Times, both of which are connected by the fact they spun off of All in the Famly.
Mike Evans was a star! I loved him in All in the Family most; his delivery and timing were great! Disappointed I didn't see him in much over the years... he was a tremendous talent! Blessings!
@@jdsundstrom I appreciate the work done on this update. So often, these personalities disappear and you never get the full story. I hope his children are doing well. Very tough to lose both parents so young...thanks again for your work!
Actually, I liked both Lionels equally well! He played him very well! So sad that he lost his battle with cancer. At such a young age too. May he Rest In Peace.
Mike Evans had more "screen presence." Damon Evens did not come across as effectively because his performance was subdued, and frankly a bit dull. He seemed to disappear into the background with Sherman Hemsley and Isabelle Sandford. Mike Evens projected more personality and he commanded your attention when on screen with the other two major characters.
@spankynater4242 how was Mike Evans intimidating? What does that even mean? He was the exact opposite like his jovial dynamic with Archie. The second one came off whiny and effeminate tbh.
He was my favorite Lionel Jefferson. I'm glad he did Co create Good Times which was one of my favorite shows growing up back in the day. I'm about to go watch this now. I know it'll be awesome.
I love the way you told Mike's story and put this video together. It is very respectful of his life and accomplishments. The ending is sad however this tribute to his life is very nice.
I found Mike Evans to be very attractive. 🩷 The other actor was the complete opposite of him. I just couldn't get into him. Glad to know he was having so much success with Good Times I didn't know that's what became of him. Sad he passed so young. Enjoyed his acting.
Unmatched comic delivery on All In The Family and just a great man. I learned a lot watching this video and sadly Mike’s passing as well. RIP Mike Evans.
I cannot imagine anybody playing that part is a great actor Mike Evans God bless him let him rest in peace I also would like them and All in the family when he used to play on there
Thanks for this walk down memory lane. I didn't know that he passed and so young...I always hated when shows would recast fan favorite actors and think that the viewers wouldn't know the difference or care, very disrespectful but I guess that is show business. Mike made this role his own and played it the best! Its funny how I can't watch sitcoms today but can watch re-runs of shows from this era so easily. I wonder why...?
Thanks for posting this informative video! I really enjoyed Mike Evans role as Lionel on All in the Family and wondered why he left The Jeffersons. It is satisfying to learn he was involved in creating Good Times.
I'm a fan of this series of documentaries that you produce, but I must say that this was one of your best. Please keep letting us know the history and what happened to our stars and heroes from the past in your unique and responsible way. Thank you.
I love the thumbnail of this video it was very clever how you tied in Good Times, The Jeffersons, Mike Evans the actor, and Mike Evans the Screen Character. You made it so you have to watch the video to understand it. Nice!!!
I really appreciate you always taking the high road, Dave, and never speaking ill of any of your videos' subjects. There are all kinds of sordid details one could cull from the entertainment world, but you keep it clean, wholesome, and put a person in their best light. I'm sorry Mike Evans passed so relatively young. He left his mark on the world for sure though. I believe there are only two of "The Jeffersons" actors still with us: Berlinda Tolbert (Jenny) and Marla Gibbs (Florence). Even Mr. Bentley is gone :-( . . . he was my favorite.
I appreciate how you make videos that don't go into the bad points in peoples lives. You keep it clean and respectful! I celebrate you for that! Thank you for what you do! You're a real blessing my friend.
RIP Mr. Mike Evans , though your time here with us on this earth was unfortunately way too short. You still were able to carve your mark in it. Peace Brother.
Excellent peek behind the scenes in the life of the actor behind Lionel's character on The Jeffersons and his development of the TV show Good Times. Thank you for sharing this history.
I remember the one episode in All In The Family when Lionel told Archie "Shove It Archie". Since he always referred to him as "Mr. Bunker", it was quite a wake up call for Archie.
I remember that one too Lionel set I remember that one also Lionel set up the punchline by telling Archie that in Arches response was hilarious when he said" you know a guy can take that to ways... Nah, Lionel's a good kid." lol
I'm a lil late, but thanks for this coverage of Mike. The bit about Cleavon Little is interesting considering he pinch hit for Richard Pryor in Blazing Saddles, then in the early 90's he replaced Frankie Faison on the underrated sitcom True Colors. Back to Mike, he had an interesting career behind the scenes, but I loved him as Lionel Jefferson, he always gave such a real performance, was def my perferred incarnation of Lionel and he reminded me a lot of my uncles.
Another outgrowth of the Norman Lear legacy is Michael Moye who was a writer on Good Times and ultimately went on to create Married . . .With Children which ran for 11 seasons.
@@cdubz265 I'm black and proud of it. I'm I suppose to use words that another nationality uses. Worry about what you are and your language. Being black is not a curse anymore. I'm black and I'm fine
I always thought he was the best Lionel Jefferson. I believe Clevon Little was on an episode of All in the Family as a burglar along with Demond Wilson (pre Sanford and Son)
This is the first time I've thought of Mike Evans in years. I didn't know it was throat cancer that got him; that is so unfortunate. I love the picture with 'mother jefferson' with the whole group. I always thought his stint with All in the Family was somewhat limited; Mr. Lear could have given him more time as the episodes he did with Carol O'Conner was really good. He always did seem to have more of a supporting role in all three sitcoms. He is very underrated and underappreciated. Like Desmond Wilson over on Sanford and Son; very underrated and underappreciated. Good Clip Dave!
@@jdsundstrom Your clearly around my age Dave. I remember on KTLA channel 5 there was still re-runs of the Monkees, Giligan's Island, the Flying Nun was still running. Do you remember 'Movies till Dawn'? This was when ABC would sign off, before the 24 hours News Cycle. So many of these shows were still running thru Syndication. CBS had All in the Family when it was first released. Mary Tyler Moore was still playing. You got me on a trip down memory lane Dave!
My favorite episode with Lionel Jefferson is on ALL IN THE FAMILY where he goes dancing with Archie's niece and gets his picture taken with her. Edith tries and hides the photo and Archie melts down. The 3 minutes of Edith trying to hide the photo is probably the funniest 3 minutes ever on TV.
Monty was the one who hitch- hiked from Chicago to California. He created the show Good Times in the beginning with the help of Mike Evans. Monty lived in the project of Cabrini Green. This was about his growing up days in Chicago. Monty also wrote Cooley High. He created What's Happening. All this came from growing up in Chicago.
The character of Lionel got lost in the crowd in The Jefferson's and became more of a bit player so I can understand why he left. Man all of the times I hitchhiked and I never go a part on a TV show! I am sorry to see he died so young. Mr. Evans will always be a part of my life and whenever I watch All in the Family I enjoy the episodes with Lionel the most he really lights up the screen.
The last two seasons of the Jeffersons were really crap jobs of tv production. George became a grumpy punchline, Louise became an airhead, Florence became more of a sitcom superhero and basically took over the lead of the show
I read he left the Jefferson’s to focus more on Good Times as he was co-creator but came back to the Jefferson’s when he had creative differences on GT
@@yell0wberry , I disagree. I loved the last two seasons. George has always been grumpy. Louise was not an airhead and Florence was not a "sitcom superhero." And I loved Florence on the show.
I was pleasantly surprised when years after Mike Evans left the Jeffersons I spotted him working in a jewelry store in L.A. I was star-struck because he was the one and only Lionel as far as I was concerned. To hear he died of throat cancer brings to mind that while I was there he took a break to smoke a cigarette. 😢
Nice video. I grew up watching him on All in the familyand briefly on the Jefferson. The video was very informative and I learned somethings( especially his involvement with the show Good Times. 👍
The thing is, he understood Archie, and understood why he was the way he was, he knew he really wasn't a bad guy. I think he respected Meathead less and less with time, because he saw through his BS.
I never realized before that one of the characters on Good Times was named Mike Evans! They called him Michael, so I didn't make the connection between him and Mike Evans, who co-created GT.
Nice tribute. Mike Evans did have a busy schedule while playing Lionel Jefferson. The Jeffersons was a great show as was Good Times and All and The Family. Thanks for the vid.
Great video as always!👍 Mike was a great actor and a class act all around! It was disappointing when he left Jeffersons. His replacement did a stellar job through.
Mike Evans was very exciting on the Jeffersons. Mike Evans dying at 57 is tragic but lived a very productive life in film, family man and believing in his God talent.
Mike Evans was what we call a CONDUIT between good and evil....You could tell he was a nice guy but at the same time if challenged he could hold his own...I believe the audience picked up on that right away.
Man you brought me back to that young boy sitting in front of the only 13inch black and white tv..we could afford growing up in the projects. When i watched the Jefferson it took me away from the poverty I was living and made me believe there was more out there for me ..I became obsessed with acting but sadly never acted but only in a school play.RIP Mike
Mike was hilarious was his sarcastic replies to Archies racial stereotypes, and then Edith shows up and totally makes Archie go bat-shit crazy with her actually liking Lionel, funny as hell!!!
Archie liked Lionel a lot too. In a weird way they were very good friends but Lionel knew how to dish out what Bunker had coming in a clever and witty way.
Thank You for focusing your video on the positive facts of Mike Evans life. Let the garbage collector videographers look for the negatives. I will not let my ears be used for a garbage can. You are a Respectable Videographer. Mike Evans brought the Jeffersons. to life. I loved him, never had a acting class, just pure talent.
I actually had no idea he had passed away. I adored him on "All In the Family" and had a crush on him and Mike as a younger me lol I'm close to his age now, and that IS too young to pass. I also had no idea he was behind the scenes on "Good Times," another huge favorite of mine. Gone too soon. RIP Mike
@@johnLennon255 I said "younger me" as in a 10-year-old me, back when all my friends' older sisters were dating hippies, and my 10-year-old self saw Mike as a hippie. I'm sure whomever you may have had a crush on in your younger you, I'd go "ewwww" myself. And just an "ewww" to you for your comment, and screen name, lil derp :)
Years later Sammy comes back and visited Archie again ,this time in Archie Bunker's place where Sammy sees Archie raiseing his Jewish niece, having a Jew for a business partner, a gay waiter and the mixed crowd in Archie's establishment, meanwhile a reporter following Sammy around and is really hitting on Archie pretty hard taking everything he said as a racist comment, when Sammy had heard enough and put the reporter in he place when he told her he had been around long enough to know that it wasn't so much about who a man was but who he was trying to be.
"The Jeffersons," "All In The Family," and "Good Times," were the greatest shows of the 1970's. And Mike Evans had a great hand in it all! That is why God called him to Rest In Peace!
I loved Lionel’s character on All in the family. I believe out of Lionel, Archie & Mike, Lionel was actually the most level headed. I also loved Mike Evans in a 1970’s movie he co starred with Desi Arnaz Jr titled “Voyage of the Yes.”
I loved him in a made for TV movie called Voyage of the Yes with Desi Arnaz Jr. His father was a dentist btw, so Good Times was in no way autobiographical. However, it was to his co-creator Eric Monte who is also responsible for the autobiographical movie Cooleyl High.
Nice tribute, Dave. Mike Evans was a gem and a terribly underrated actor. He ultimately left Good Times as well, because even though he co-created the show, he felt like he wasn’t actually allowed to do anything because Lear brought in his own group of writers and Evans and Monte, the only black writers on staff were marginalized. This eventually changed when Lear brought in a talented young black writer named Michael Moye (Who would go on to have a remarkable career, writing some of the best Good Times and Jefferson’s episodes and co-creating Silver Spoons and Married With Children). Still, I believe Mike Evans was happy with his career choices. From what I’ve learned about him from people who knew him, he was a real ‘go with the flow” guy.
Part of the issue was that Evans and Monte really only had created by credit as they had no written by or producer credits so they had little sayin scripts. The cast never got along with each other nor the writers which lead to Eric Monte leaving.
I remember watching The Jeffersons and the other shows back in the day. Lionel would really get Archie sometimes! I also remember seeing Mike Evan's passing mentioned on the cover of a newspaper back in '06 and while I didn't know how old he was, I did think to myself that he couldn't have been real old. Really sad!
The writers didn't give him and Berlinda Tolbert's characters enough story time. Lionel was at his best when sparring with Archie on All In The Family.
Mike was a smooth cat. I did a Medium article on the sixth season Jeffersons episode "The First Store" and Mike did some of his best dramatic work in that episode imho. I loved Lionel's dynamic with Archie. They had a very interesting and complex friendship. Lionel knew how to handle Archie with good humor and sharp wit. That's the thing about back then, we were able to get through racism with humor and that helped break the ice so we could talk about it. I feel we've regressed now.
Mike Evans was a great natural actor. I missed seeing him when he left. Lionel really had good chemistry to handle Archie Bunker. May he rest in peace.
I feel so bad to hear this news. I thought he was so funny. I missed him when he left the show. The day can't come soon enough when we will find the cure for cancer.
TRUTH BE TOLD THERE IS A CURE FOR CANCER.THE SAD PART OF IT IS THE ORTHODOX MEDICAL MACHINE IS MORE INTERESTED IN MAKING MONEY THAN CHEAPLY AND SAFELY HEALING PEOPLE. THERES EVERYTHING ON THIS EARTH THAT WE NEED AND REQUIRE.IF YOUR MEDICINE HAS A POSIBLITY OF CAUSING YOUR DEATH I WOULD STRONGLY RECOMMEND THAT YOU NOT TAKE.
All in the Family and The Jeffersons were really great, funny and controversial shows. They were ahead of their time and they had great talent and casts. The talent was really great and Maude was also great and they were just as good.
Mike Evans was severely underused to the point that Norman Lear probably should have sent him and Jenny back to Queens, especially after Sally Struthers and Rob Reiner left All in the Family.
Great way to eulogize Mike Evans with a respectful narration of his professional and personal accomplishments... and very professional on your part as well sir. 👍🏾
I just have to say that in an era where everything is negative this and cancel that, I always find your videos to be a breath of fresh air. They almost always bring to mind something positive...you know, the good stuff. Keep up the good work.
Mike Evans was the best actor on All in the Family. I wish he could have said exacatly what he was thinking at the time, however, it was the 70s. So no can do Mike. Sorry you left us so young. RIP Mike.
Every scene with Mike Evans and Carroll O'Connor was pure genius!
Weren't they though!? You could tell they loved playing off each other.
Lionel was the perfect foil for Archie Bunker. I'm surprised they didn't make him the foil for George (Sherman Helmsley) but then maybe that couldn't be done because the racial dynamic wasn't there.
Ikr
I loved the moment Lionel announced to Archie how he was a ‘lectrical engineer! LOL!
I learned a lot from Mike. How to face a holes.
Mike Evans was great on All in the Family and on The Jefferson’s. He gave Lionel a presence that I don’t think anyone else could have given. May he RIP.
faaact
Sorry to learn that he had passed at a young age. R.I.P Mike Evans.
so the HELEN in that show
@@SFBenjaminK @Benjamin Kidman and George, Louise, Mr. Bentley, Tom and Mother Jefferson
@@dallasbrubaker6054
I know ..but they died in their 80s , but him & Helen they died alot younger because of cancer!
@@SFBenjaminK Oh I thought you were just mentioning who died.
Smoking those cigarettes
Met him once in LA after he left the show. Really nice person.
R.I.P. Mike Evans ✏️🙏🏽💔📺⚘️💯
I didn't know Mike Evans was responsible for "Good Times"!
Yep!
They named the character Michael after him.
M:True I researched that a long time ago💯✔.
"Non threatening way"🤣🤣🤣🤣. That's considered insulting. That is such an antiquated way of thinking...in 2021.
@M Wow 😃 didn’t know that! “What’s Happening” was my show. My younger sister and I loved watching those reruns after school. We knew all the episodes, We bought the dvd box set and got are kidz into it. They’re grown now and still luv them some Rodge and the crew 🤣🤣 Definitely a classic 👍🏾
Mike Evans IMHO was a breath of fresh air on the show. He made every line count. His deadpan delivery was golden and I wish there was more film of him. RIP Mike we miss you.
Just Google him, & you'll find he was in a few movies as well.😊
Agreed. He was smooth snd understated, confident in his abilities as an actor, never forced in his delivery.
@@robinfranklin8001 know what's ironic? He never acted before All In The Family in his life. No training or experience, just a real natural.
I never did like the second Lionel on the Jeffersons, I mean he was ok just not the original LOL
Yeah, he seemed more like a placeholder with his wife being the more interesting character.
Agree. Nobody to beat the original Lionel!
I Sure Was Glad When The ORIGINAL Lionel Mike Evans Came Back Too!!! 😊😊😊🤗🤗🤗🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
Kinda like the second Darrin Stevens..
Sometimes it's hard to follow the original actor.
I'd always liked mike Evans better as Lionel, he was cool and witty
Exactly. That new Lionel was so corny.
@@trawlins396 Omg yes he was, reminds me of Denise's husband on The Cosby Show!! 😝
@lonelyenchantress2172 😂 yeah Martin was a square. Denise was out of her mind lol
While reading the comments, I ran across a line that made me laugh just as hard when Mike Evans' character, Lionel Jefferson , when asked he was kicked out of college. He said to Louise, "Well, you know the peace sign?" She replied, "Yeh, what's wrong with that?". He said, " Well, I , only gave him half of it!" HILARIOUS!!🤣🤣🤣🤣
Good memory Vernon.
I liked his acting and especially as Lionel. He could cut his lines and criticize but not really in a hateful or disrespecting way. Thumbs up.
I had no idea he created Good times. From hitchhiking with no intent on acting to all of that. That's fascinating. I grew up on all of these shows.
These days, it's too dangerous to even consider hitch-hiking! I hitch-hiked as a teen-ager and now, you couldn't pay me to do it!!
He did not create good times a black man did it's not new news the guy his name I don't know but is seeking payment and acknowledgement for creating that and more shows
@@Floodcity-814 Mike Evans co-created Good Times with his friend Eric Monte. They are both black men.
Monte grew up in the actual Chicago projects that the family in the show live in.
Yes, he did! And dude is black. And don't get me wrong, I'm not clapping back at'cha. But we're all just human and we all make mistakes. But he passed away a few years back. However, you are partially correct, at some point he had to take the studio to court to receive credit for creating Good Times. @@Floodcity-814
@@scott8xxx532Yes sirr. Eric Monte even made sure those projects looked like Cabrini Green
Went down the rabbit hole again and it turns out Isabel Sanford(Louise Jefferson) was 20 years older than Sherman Hemsley(George Jefferson), I was quite surprised by that. Also Zara Cully aka Mother Jefferson was born in 1892. Those were today's fun facts.
I remember being surprised when I found that out as well!
Just like walker was only 4 yrs younger than james on good times
Wow I didn't know she was 20 years older than Sherman.
And both Lionel's, (Mike Evans and Damon Evans) was only 11 years younger than the tv dad George Jefferson (Sherman Hemsley). Sherman was born in 1938 and both Lionel's Mike Evans and Damon Evans were born in 1949.
Why couldn’t find actor at least about same age for couple instead 20 years different especially women one younger? She knew how make herself younger and bet he made himself older by not care so much his look or put in makeup make Hensley older.
All in the Family, The Jeffersons, Good Times, Mary Tyler Moore--the 70s was a Golden Age for comedy! Maybe there wasn't so much money, but we were rich in laughter!!! 😀
True!
All good shows and while they were funny they also touched on serious Social issues that were facing the US at the time.
@@xoxxobob61 All in the Family Couldn't be made today. There would be B.L.M demonstrations all over the Country
@@jeffreykaufmann2867 Actually, EVERY group imaginable would be suing, protesting........ 😂
Lovely comment ...Comedy was golden back then💚💚💚💚
Well done, it was fabulous taking a step back into time when tv was at its finest. They don’t make them like they once did. RIP Mike Evans, Isabell Sanford, and Sherman Hensley
He was the first of the Jefferson family to go to the Bunkers household in All in the Family. I remember those days like it was yesterday. But the 70’s are behind us now , I just try to keep the memories alive by watching the old reruns of those infamously hilarious sitcoms. They don’t make shows like that anymore.
Excellent video! I was born in 1949 so I watched these Norman Lear programs from the tender age of 21 in 1970. They were, "Good Times".
I'm so glad you enjoyed the video, Felix.
Another connection between Good Times and the Jefferson- the theme song of the Jefferson is sung by Ja'Net Dubois (Willona) from Good Times
Love that lady! ua-cam.com/video/i9ND4ygCANU/v-deo.html
No to forget that Maude was also a spin off from All in the Family.
@@goodknight5783 ... It was about MIKE EVANS not spinoffs of ALL IN THE FAMILY
Which frame is the correction ?
@@twanatee21 and the comment above mentioned the connection between The Jeffersons and Good Times, both of which are connected by the fact they spun off of All in the Famly.
He definitely was my favorite Lionel.
Same here the second one was a joke 👎
Me too he was good at his character
Mike Evans was a star! I loved him in All in the Family most; his delivery and timing were great! Disappointed I didn't see him in much over the years... he was a tremendous talent! Blessings!
Great comment, Peter!
@@jdsundstrom I appreciate the work done on this update. So often, these personalities disappear and you never get the full story. I hope his children are doing well. Very tough to lose both parents so young...thanks again for your work!
He was perfect as Lionel Jefferson! I suspect he and O'Connor were great friends...Thanks for a great video, Dave.
You're welcome, Jack!
Actually, I liked both Lionels equally well! He played him very well! So sad that he lost his battle with cancer. At such a young age too. May he Rest In Peace.
I did too. Both Mike and Damon were good.
I thought the replacement Lyonel was less intimidating.
Mike Evans had more "screen presence." Damon Evens did not come across as effectively because his performance was subdued, and frankly a bit dull. He seemed to disappear into the background with Sherman Hemsley and Isabelle Sandford. Mike Evens projected more personality and he commanded your attention when on screen with the other two major characters.
@spankynater4242 how was Mike Evans intimidating? What does that even mean? He was the exact opposite like his jovial dynamic with Archie. The second one came off whiny and effeminate tbh.
He was my favorite Lionel Jefferson. I'm glad he did Co create Good Times which was one of my favorite shows growing up back in the day. I'm about to go watch this now. I know it'll be awesome.
Couldn't agree more!
I love the way you told Mike's story and put this video together. It is very respectful of his life and accomplishments. The ending is sad however this tribute to his life is very nice.
I'm glad you appreciated it, ingrid!
I had such a crush in him lol I loved him on both shows he was a good actor you would never know he had no experience
I got a crush on you
He was fine! I had a crush on DeMond Wilson (LaMont), I called him hot LaMont!
Ewwwww
I found Mike Evans to be very attractive. 🩷 The other actor was the complete opposite of him. I just couldn't get into him.
Glad to know he was having so much success with Good Times
I didn't know that's what became of him. Sad he passed so young. Enjoyed his acting.
Same 🤗
Mike Evans was so talented that he drew you in when he was on screen...he could have carried his own show...sorry to hear that he has passed...
Unmatched comic delivery on All In The Family and just a great man. I learned a lot watching this video and sadly Mike’s passing as well. RIP Mike Evans.
I cannot imagine anybody playing that part is a great actor Mike Evans God bless him let him rest in peace I also would like them and All in the family when he used to play on there
Thanks for this walk down memory lane. I didn't know that he passed and so young...I always hated when shows would recast fan favorite actors and think that the viewers wouldn't know the difference or care, very disrespectful but I guess that is show business. Mike made this role his own and played it the best! Its funny how I can't watch sitcoms today but can watch re-runs of shows from this era so easily. I wonder why...?
You're most welcome!
Thanks for posting this informative video! I really enjoyed Mike Evans role as Lionel on All in the Family and wondered why he left The Jeffersons. It is satisfying to learn he was involved in creating Good Times.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I'm a fan of this series of documentaries that you produce, but I must say that this was one of your best. Please keep letting us know the history and what happened to our stars and heroes from the past in your unique and responsible way. Thank you.
Thank you for your kind words, Stafford! You made my day!
I love the thumbnail of this video it was very clever how you tied in Good Times, The Jeffersons, Mike Evans the actor, and Mike Evans the Screen Character. You made it so you have to watch the video to understand it. Nice!!!
Thanks for the kind words!
@@jdsundstrom you're welcome
I really appreciate you always taking the high road, Dave, and never speaking ill of any of your videos' subjects. There are all kinds of sordid details one could cull from the entertainment world, but you keep it clean, wholesome, and put a person in their best light.
I'm sorry Mike Evans passed so relatively young. He left his mark on the world for sure though. I believe there are only two of "The Jeffersons" actors still with us: Berlinda Tolbert (Jenny) and Marla Gibbs (Florence). Even Mr. Bentley is gone :-( . . . he was my favorite.
I appreciate how you make videos that don't go into the bad points in peoples lives. You keep it clean and respectful! I celebrate you for that! Thank you for what you do! You're a real blessing my friend.
Thank you for saying that, Lordcron!
@@jdsundstrom You're very welcome and it needs to be said. Good people need to be acknowledged for being good! God Bless You My Friend.
RIP Mr. Mike Evans , though your time here with us on this earth was unfortunately way too short. You still were able to carve your mark in it. Peace Brother.
Excellent peek behind the scenes in the life of the actor behind Lionel's character on The Jeffersons and his development of the TV show Good Times. Thank you for sharing this history.
You are most welcome, Carol!
MIKE WAS A VERY CLOSE FRIEND AND PARTNER. I'LL NEVER FORGET HIM!!!
As well you shouldn't . Personally myself, he was a "Talent"
I had the biggest crush on him. When he was replaced I was *hurt.* 😞
Is that right cool ? What kind of music did he like ?
Did he talk about acting a lot?
I remember the one episode in All In The Family when Lionel told Archie "Shove It Archie". Since he always referred to him as "Mr. Bunker", it was quite a wake up call for Archie.
I remember that one too Lionel set I remember that one also Lionel set up the punchline by telling Archie that in Arches response was hilarious when he said" you know a guy can take that to ways... Nah, Lionel's a good kid." lol
I'm a lil late, but thanks for this coverage of Mike. The bit about Cleavon Little is interesting considering he pinch hit for Richard Pryor in Blazing Saddles, then in the early 90's he replaced Frankie Faison on the underrated sitcom True Colors.
Back to Mike, he had an interesting career behind the scenes, but I loved him as Lionel Jefferson, he always gave such a real performance, was def my perferred incarnation of Lionel and he reminded me a lot of my uncles.
You're most welcome. I'm glad you enjoyed the video.
Another outgrowth of the Norman Lear legacy is Michael Moye who was a writer on Good Times and ultimately went on to create Married . . .With Children which ran for 11 seasons.
"He's one of the good ones."
Archie's usual comment regarding Lionel.
"A real credit to his race." He never said it.
His acting was so smooth and easy. His comedic timing balanced Sherman's and Carroll's perfectly. And he was Fine. Rest in peace
Fine? Are you 12?
Calling a handsome man or a pretty woman ‘Fine’ is very common in the Black community so I don’t know why you came for the commenter 🤷♂️
@@cdubz265 I'm black and proud of it. I'm I suppose to use words that another nationality uses. Worry about what you are and your language. Being black is not a curse anymore. I'm black and I'm fine
@@TheJpep2424 are you?
I didn't know this. I'm pleased he did what he wanted to do! RIP MIKE EVANS!
I always thought he was the best Lionel Jefferson. I believe Clevon Little was on an episode of All in the Family as a burglar along with Demond Wilson (pre Sanford and Son)
He was. I remember that episode..really funny!
@@sandrasanders706 That was a brilliant episode, "How can you laugh through all of that misery?" "Practice, lady, practice."
@@NBLP7001 Clevon Little was a trained Shakespearean actor. Even in his comedic roles, like Blazing Saddles you could see it.
You are so right. Watch All in the
I think he was going to play Lionel originally or something like that.
This is the first time I've thought of Mike Evans in years. I didn't know it was throat cancer that got him; that is so unfortunate. I love the picture with 'mother jefferson' with the whole group. I always thought his stint with All in the Family was somewhat limited; Mr. Lear could have given him more time as the episodes he did with Carol O'Conner was really good. He always did seem to have more of a supporting role in all three sitcoms. He is very underrated and underappreciated. Like Desmond Wilson over on Sanford and Son; very underrated and underappreciated. Good Clip Dave!
I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for the comment!
@@jdsundstrom Your clearly around my age Dave. I remember on KTLA channel 5 there was still re-runs of the Monkees, Giligan's Island, the Flying Nun was still running. Do you remember 'Movies till Dawn'? This was when ABC would sign off, before the 24 hours News Cycle. So many of these shows were still running thru Syndication. CBS had All in the Family when it was first released. Mary Tyler Moore was still playing. You got me on a trip down memory lane Dave!
I remember late night movies...but nothing with that title out here in the Utah TV market.
@@jdsundstrom Your right. Not until the Satellites were up there.
My favorite episode with Lionel Jefferson is on ALL IN THE FAMILY where he goes dancing with Archie's niece and gets his picture taken with her. Edith tries and hides the photo and Archie melts down. The 3 minutes of Edith trying to hide the photo is probably the funniest 3 minutes ever on TV.
Oh,I don't remember this episode.wow
You need to watch it. Hysterical@@adriennerobinson1180
Thank you! I JUST asked my husband yesterday why did he leave. He did not know either. Now we know.
You are very welcome, Brenda!
This gentleman was talented. And very likeable.Glad he came back to the Jeffersons. Great show. Great people.Plus he was very Handsome.
Monty was the one who hitch- hiked from Chicago to California. He created the show Good Times in the beginning with the help of Mike Evans. Monty lived in the project of Cabrini Green. This was about his growing up days in Chicago. Monty also wrote Cooley High. He created What's Happening. All this came from growing up in Chicago.
That was really nice, what a beautiful video tribute. Thank you for making this 😊
My pleasure 😊
Excellent coverage!! And I looove the “ Who Knew Facts!!!”🤷🏽♀️ Bc u reveal info I never ever knew!!🤦🏾♀️
Thanks D Ann!
The character of Lionel got lost in the crowd in The Jefferson's and became more of a bit player so I can understand why he left. Man all of the times I hitchhiked and I never go a part on a TV show! I am sorry to see he died so young. Mr. Evans will always be a part of my life and whenever I watch All in the Family I enjoy the episodes with Lionel the most he really lights up the screen.
The last two seasons of the Jeffersons were really crap jobs of tv production. George became a grumpy punchline, Louise became an airhead, Florence became more of a sitcom superhero and basically took over the lead of the show
I read he left the Jefferson’s to focus more on Good Times as he was co-creator but came back to the Jefferson’s when he had creative differences on GT
@@yell0wberry , I disagree. I loved the last two seasons. George has always been grumpy. Louise was not an airhead and Florence was not a "sitcom superhero." And I loved Florence on the show.
@@yell0wberryactually George became a little softer in his attitudes
@@mssolitarealso Mike Evans went back to The Jeffersons once Good Times was cancelled
I was pleasantly surprised when years after Mike Evans left the Jeffersons I spotted him working in a jewelry store in L.A. I was star-struck because he was the one and only Lionel as far as I was concerned. To hear he died of throat cancer brings to mind that while I was there he took a break to smoke a cigarette. 😢
Nice video. I grew up watching him on All in the familyand briefly on the Jefferson. The video was very informative and I learned somethings( especially his involvement with the show Good Times. 👍
Glad you enjoyed it
Mike Evans' Lionel character gave me the best piece of life advice: "I gave him half a peace sign". And that is my motto to this day.
Ha! Love it!
I'd probably wouldn't got it then but I definitely got it now.😅
😅🤣😅🤣
I love mike, sad, he and his wife pass from cancer, daughter must have good memories of them both, he was so good on the Jefferson
He was great with Archie Bunker. Hysterical. Absolutely Hysterical.
The thing is, he understood Archie, and understood why he was the way he was, he knew he really wasn't a bad guy. I think he respected Meathead less and less with time, because he saw through his BS.
I never realized before that one of the characters on Good Times was named Mike Evans! They called him Michael, so I didn't make the connection between him and Mike Evans, who co-created GT.
Nice tribute. Mike Evans did have a busy schedule while playing Lionel Jefferson. The Jeffersons was a great show as was Good Times and All and The Family. Thanks for the vid.
You're welcome, Percy!
Great video as always!👍 Mike was a great actor and a class act all around! It was disappointing when he left Jeffersons. His replacement did a stellar job through.
Well said!
Great video. you are the king of the good stuff
Thanks Danny!
Mike Evans was very exciting on the Jeffersons. Mike Evans dying at 57 is tragic but lived a very productive life in film, family man and believing in his God talent.
Thanks for this info on Mike Evans. I loved Lionel especially his banter with Archie.
Me too, Tamara!
R.I.P. Mike Evans! Dave Sundstrom is right! Cancer Sucks! I lost my lovely wife to cancer in February 2019. I hate cancer!!!
Sorry for your loss, Jeffrey. 🙁
Dave, Thank you!
My condolences to you.
Robin, Thank you!
My heart goes out to you sir.
Much condolences on your loss.
Mike Evans was what we call a CONDUIT between good and evil....You could tell he was a nice guy but at the same time if challenged he could hold his own...I believe the audience picked up on that right away.
Man you brought me back to that young boy sitting in front of the only 13inch black and white tv..we could afford growing up in the projects. When i watched the Jefferson it took me away from the poverty I was living and made me believe there was more out there for me ..I became obsessed with acting but sadly never acted but only in a school play.RIP Mike
Thanks so much for sharing your memories!
Anytime just keep dropping those good videos
UNLESS YOU'VE GONE TO THE OTHER SIDE, IT'S NOT TOO LATE!!! 😊
Thank you for allowing us to know what happen to Mike Evans, I had always wondered, as I really missed his character...
You're very welcome, Rea.
Mike was hilarious was his sarcastic replies to Archies racial stereotypes, and then Edith shows up and totally makes Archie go bat-shit crazy with her actually liking Lionel, funny as hell!!!
Archie liked Lionel a lot too. In a weird way they were very good friends but Lionel knew how to dish out what Bunker had coming in a clever and witty way.
That was very nice comments you made about Mike Evans. Cancer sucks
I always admired his acting ability. He was always quick witted and attentive in his role.
Thank You for focusing your video on the positive facts of Mike Evans life. Let the garbage collector videographers look for the negatives. I will not let my ears be used for a
garbage can. You are a Respectable Videographer. Mike Evans brought the Jeffersons. to life. I loved him, never had a acting class, just pure talent.
I didn't realize that Mike Evans had passed away. :-( I loved him as Lionel on All in the Family. I thought he was awesome!
I actually had no idea he had passed away. I adored him on "All In the Family" and had a crush on him and Mike as a younger me lol I'm close to his age now, and that IS too young to pass. I also had no idea he was behind the scenes on "Good Times," another huge favorite of mine. Gone too soon. RIP Mike
U had a crush on meat head? Eww
@@johnLennon255 I said "younger me" as in a 10-year-old me, back when all my friends' older sisters were dating hippies, and my 10-year-old self saw Mike as a hippie. I'm sure whomever you may have had a crush on in your younger you, I'd go "ewwww" myself. And just an "ewww" to you for your comment, and screen name, lil derp :)
Lionel- He’s not a bad guy Mt. Davis! He wouldn’t burn a cross on your lawn!
Sammy Davis- yeah but he’s liable to toast a marshmallow on it!
Years later Sammy comes back and visited Archie again ,this time in Archie Bunker's place where Sammy sees Archie raiseing his Jewish niece, having a Jew for a business partner, a gay waiter and the mixed crowd in Archie's establishment, meanwhile a reporter following Sammy around and is really hitting on Archie pretty hard taking everything he said as a racist comment, when Sammy had heard enough and put the reporter in he place when he told her he had been around long enough to know that it wasn't so much about who a man was but who he was trying to be.
"Mister Davis, do you take cream or sugar in your eye?" - Probably the funniest moment ever in TV history.
@@edlawn5481 Archie : I know you couldn't help being born colored, but what ever made you want to be a Jew.
"The Jeffersons," "All In The Family," and "Good Times," were the greatest shows of the 1970's. And Mike Evans had a great hand in it all! That is why God called him to Rest In Peace!
I loved Lionel’s character on All in the family. I believe out of Lionel, Archie & Mike, Lionel was actually the most level headed. I also loved Mike Evans in a 1970’s movie he co starred with Desi Arnaz Jr titled “Voyage of the Yes.”
Very good movie. I remember it well. I’d rather be a hammer than a nail... yes I would, if I could I surely would!
He also played on a movie called The House On Skull Mountain
Mike came to my elementary school when I was a kid I met him he's a really nice guy
I loved him in a made for TV movie called Voyage of the Yes with Desi Arnaz Jr. His father was a dentist btw, so Good Times was in no way autobiographical. However, it was to his co-creator Eric Monte who is also responsible for the autobiographical movie Cooleyl High.
Thank you for this piece of history. Stay blessed.
Glad you enjoyed it, Adrianne!
Mike Evans was one of my favorite actors. RIP ✊🏿
I wasn't aware Mike Evans passed away. He definitely was my favorite "Lionel". RIP.
Nice tribute, Dave. Mike Evans was a gem and a terribly underrated actor. He ultimately left Good Times as well, because even though he co-created the show, he felt like he wasn’t actually allowed to do anything because Lear brought in his own group of writers and Evans and Monte, the only black writers on staff were marginalized. This eventually changed when Lear brought in a talented young black writer named Michael Moye (Who would go on to have a remarkable career, writing some of the best Good Times and Jefferson’s episodes and co-creating Silver Spoons and Married With Children). Still, I believe Mike Evans was happy with his career choices. From what I’ve learned about him from people who knew him, he was a real ‘go with the flow” guy.
Great comment, Darien! Thanks for the extra info. I hope all is going well with you and your family. 🙂
I'm well, Dave! Hope you're having a great 2021 so far, too!
Damon Evans did the Jeffersons no justice
Part of the issue was that Evans and Monte really only had created by credit as they had no written by or producer credits so they had little sayin scripts.
The cast never got along with each other nor the writers which lead to Eric Monte leaving.
Tks for sharing more details appreciate it
I remember watching The Jeffersons and the other shows back in the day. Lionel would really get Archie sometimes! I also remember seeing Mike Evan's passing mentioned on the cover of a newspaper back in '06 and while I didn't know how old he was, I did think to myself that he couldn't have been real old. Really sad!
Yep. He was way too young. Thanks for sharing your memories, Red 13!
The writers didn't give him and Berlinda Tolbert's characters enough story time. Lionel was at his best when sparring with Archie on All In The Family.
This was a great video! Thanks for sharing! 💯
Glad you enjoyed it!
Mike was a smooth cat. I did a Medium article on the sixth season Jeffersons episode "The First Store" and Mike did some of his best dramatic work in that episode imho. I loved Lionel's dynamic with Archie. They had a very interesting and complex friendship. Lionel knew how to handle Archie with good humor and sharp wit. That's the thing about back then, we were able to get through racism with humor and that helped break the ice so we could talk about it. I feel we've regressed now.
Mike Evans was a great natural actor. I missed seeing him when he left. Lionel really had good chemistry to handle Archie Bunker. May he rest in peace.
I feel so bad to hear this news. I thought he was so funny. I missed him when he left the show. The day can't come soon enough when we will find the cure for cancer.
TRUTH BE TOLD THERE IS A CURE FOR CANCER.THE SAD PART OF IT IS THE ORTHODOX MEDICAL MACHINE IS MORE INTERESTED IN MAKING MONEY THAN CHEAPLY AND SAFELY HEALING PEOPLE.
THERES EVERYTHING ON THIS EARTH THAT WE NEED AND REQUIRE.IF YOUR MEDICINE HAS A POSIBLITY OF CAUSING YOUR DEATH I WOULD STRONGLY RECOMMEND THAT YOU NOT TAKE.
All in the Family and The Jeffersons were really great, funny and controversial shows. They were ahead of their time and they had great talent and casts. The talent was really great and Maude was also great and they were just as good.
Good Times too.
Miss those gem of people!
I love your channel. Thank you for keeping it going and all the information on the older celebrities
Thanks for watching!
You missed the part where Good Times was a spin-off of Maude, but Maude was in fact a spin-off of All in the Family. lol
I never knew! Thank you for educating us about Mr. Mike Evans...quite a story...quite a life.
Mike Evans was severely underused to the point that Norman Lear probably should have sent him and Jenny back to Queens, especially after Sally Struthers and Rob Reiner left All in the Family.
Great way to eulogize Mike Evans with a respectful narration of his professional and personal accomplishments... and very professional on your part as well sir. 👍🏾
Much appreciated!
What a performance he must have put on to be selected without any experience. Talented man. RIP.
I just have to say that in an era where everything is negative this and cancel that, I always find your videos to be a breath of fresh air. They almost always bring to mind something positive...you know, the good stuff. Keep up the good work.
Wow, thank you, K D!
Mike Evans was the best actor on All in the Family. I wish he could have said exacatly what he was thinking at the time, however, it was the 70s. So no can do Mike. Sorry you left us so young. RIP Mike.
I appreciate you keeping this a positive feature about Mike Evans and his talent.
I'm glad you enjoyed the video!
I didn't care for all in the family. But I loved the Jefferson's I still miss it
Love your channel love the fact that you didn't go into his personal relationship just kept it related to the topic of the show great job
Glad you enjoyed it!