Watch The Jeffersons

The Jeffersons is an American television sitcom that aired from 1975 to 1985 on CBS. The show revolves around George and Louise Jefferson, a wealthy African-American couple who move from their working-class neighborhood in Queens to a luxury high-rise apartment in Manhattan. The show's creators, Norman Lear and Don Nicholl, originally conceived the characters of George and Louise as the neighbors of Archie and Edith Bunker from the show All in the Family, but they soon became so popular that they were given their own spin-off series.

Sherman Hemsley portrays George Jefferson, a cantankerous, opinionated businessman who runs a successful chain of dry-cleaning stores. George is fiercely proud of his status as a wealthy, self-made man, and his motto is "move on up," which he sings in the show's upbeat theme song. Despite his gruff exterior, George has a heart of gold and cares deeply for his family and friends.

Isabel Sanford plays Louise Jefferson, George's devoted wife and the love of his life. Louise is patient and kind, and often serves as the peacemaker in the family. She has a great sense of humor and is always ready with a clever quip to diffuse a tense situation.

Marla Gibbs stars as Florence Johnston, the Jeffersons' sassy, no-nonsense housekeeper. Florence is always quick with a witty retort and a sharp tongue, but she also has a soft spot for the Jeffersons and will go to great lengths to keep them happy.

Roxie Roker plays Helen Willis, the Jeffersons' neighbor and Louise's best friend. Helen is married to Tom Willis, a white man, and they are one of the first interracial couples to be depicted on television. Their relationship is a source of tension and conflict with George, who struggles to accept their marriage.

Franklin Cover portrays Tom Willis, a successful businessman who is deeply in love with Helen. Tom is kind and patient, but he also has a fiery temper that can be triggered when he feels he is being treated unfairly.

Mike Evans stars as Lionel Jefferson, the Jeffersons' son. Lionel is a college student who is trying to find his place in the world, and he often clashes with his father over his choice of friends and career aspirations. Lionel is also in an interracial relationship with Jenny Willis, Tom and Helen's daughter, which further complicates matters for the family.

Berlinda Tolbert plays Jenny Willis, the sweet-natured daughter of Tom and Helen. Jenny is bright and ambitious, and she is determined to make her own way in the world despite the racism and sexism she encounters.

Zara Cully portrays Mother Jefferson, George's mother, who moves in with the Jeffersons after her apartment is damaged in a fire. Mother Jefferson is a feisty and opinionated woman who is not afraid to speak her mind, much to the chagrin of her son.

Damon Evans and Jay Hammer also have recurring roles on the show as Lionel's friends, and Paul Benedict appears as Harry Bentley, the Jeffersons' bumbling, accident-prone neighbor from England.

The Jeffersons is a groundbreaking show that tackled issues of race, class, and gender in a way that was both honest and humorous. The show's outstanding cast, witty writing, and catchy theme song made it a beloved classic that still resonates with audiences today.

The Jeffersons is a series that is currently running and has 11 seasons (424 episodes). The series first aired on January 18, 1975.

Where to Watch The Jeffersons