Who Is Esther Rolle? Age, Biography and Wiki
Born on November 8, 1920, Esther Rolle made an indelible mark on Hollywood with her exceptional talent and powerful performances. She rose to fame for her role as Florida Evans on the groundbreaking sitcom "Good Times," becoming a symbol of strength and resilience for African American women in media. Unfortunately, she passed away on November 17, 1998, at the age of 78. Remembered for her contributions to the arts, Rolle's legacy lives on, inspiring future generations of actors and actresses.
| Occupation | Stage Actress |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 8, 1920 |
| Age | 78 Years |
| Birth Place | Pompano Beach, Florida, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Scorpio |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 17 November, 1998 |
| Died Place | Culver City, California, U.S. |
Popularity
Esther Rolle's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Esther Rolle boasted a robust and commanding presence, standing approximately 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) tall. Although her weight fluctuated throughout her life, she maintained a healthy physique. Specific measurements remain unavailable, but she was known for her elegant figure that complemented her strong screen presence.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status (Boyfriend/Girlfriend/Husband/Wife)
Esther Rolle was known to maintain a level of privacy regarding her personal life. She never married, and specifics around her relationships remain largely undisclosed. However, she was rumored to have had significant relationships throughout her life, though none were publicly confirmed. Rolle often emphasized the importance of family and community, which played a crucial role in shaping her values and career.
Her parents were both born and raised in Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas and moved to Florida some time after their marriage. She was the tenth of 18 children (children who included siblings and fellow actresses Estelle Evans and Rosanna Carter). Rolle attended Booker T.
Washington High School in Miami, but transferred to Blanche Ely High School in Pompano Beach from which she graduated. She initially studied at Spelman College in Atlanta, before moving to New York City. While in New York, she attended Hunter College before transferring to The New School and then Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut.
For many years, Rolle worked in a traditional day job in New York City's garment district.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of her passing, Esther Rolle had an estimated net worth of around $3 million, a reflection of her successful career in the entertainment industry. Her earnings were primarily from her acting roles, voice work, and appearances in commercials and television shows. Given the legendary status she attained, her contributions to film and television have continued to inspire and influence many in the industry.
Career, Business and Investments
Esther Rolle's career spanned several decades. She made her film debut in "The Naked City" (1948) and gained recognition for her powerful performances in various stage productions and films such as "The New Centurions" (1972) and "Driving Miss Daisy" (1989). Moreover, her role in "Good Times" (1974-1979) solidified her legacy as one of the first African American women to portray a strong matriarch on television.
In addition to her acting career, Rolle was actively involved in advocating for more authentic representations of African Americans in the media. Although more of her business ventures remain under wraps, her contributions to the arts have made a lasting impact.
Rolle was a member of Asadata Dafora's dance troupe, Shogolo Oloba (later renamed the Federal Theater African Dance Troupe). She became the troupe's director in 1960. Rolle's earliest roles were on the stage; her New York stage debut was in the 1962 play The Blacks.
She was often cast in plays produced by Robert Hooks and the Negro Ensemble Company. She also appeared in productions of The Crucible and Blues for Mr. Charlie. Rolle's most prominent early role was as Miss Maybell in the Melvin Van Peebles 1972 Broadway musical Don't Play Us Cheap, and its subsequent 1973 film adaptation.
In 1977, Rolle portrayed Lady Macbeth in Orson Welles' Haitian-influenced version of William Shakespeare's Macbeth at the Henry Street New Federal Theater in Manhattan.
Social Network
Esther Rolle was a respected figure in the entertainment industry, and while she wasn't particularly active on social media, her influence was felt across various platforms. Fans and admirers often share her memorable performances and quotes, celebrating her artistry and dedication to her craft.
Education
Esther Rolle attended New York's Actors Studio and earned a degree from the prestigious drama school at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Her educational background laid the foundation for her powerful performances, instilling a deep appreciation for the craft of acting and storytelling.
In conclusion, while Esther Rolle may no longer be with us, her contributions to the film and television industry, along with her commitment to social change and representation, continue to resonate. As we honor her memory in 2025, we celebrate the impact she has made and the legacy that endures.
