The final episode of 227, titled “The Big Decision,” aired on May 6, 1990, and revolved around Mary Jenkins’ agonizing choice between continuing her vibrant community life in Washington D.C. and accepting a lucrative job offer in Atlanta. Ultimately, she decided to remain at 227 Lexington Place, reaffirming the show’s central theme of the power of community and the importance of strong bonds.
A Look Back at a Groundbreaking Sitcom
227, a spin-off from a play of the same name, carved its niche in television history as one of the first successful sitcoms to feature a predominantly African American cast. Focusing on the lives of residents in a middle-class apartment building in Washington, D.C., the show tackled relatable themes of family, friendship, and everyday struggles with humor and heart. The series was known for its sharp wit, memorable characters, and positive portrayal of African American family life during a period when such representation was scarce. The show’s lasting legacy lies in its ability to entertain while also showcasing the strength and resilience of a close-knit community.
“The Big Decision”: Mary’s Crossroads
The final episode centered on Mary Jenkins, the show’s matriarch, played by the incomparable Marla Gibbs. Mary receives a tempting job offer from a large corporation in Atlanta, promising a significant salary increase and career advancement. However, accepting the position would mean leaving behind her beloved apartment building, her close friendships with Sandra Clark and Pearl Shay, and her deep involvement in the community.
The episode follows Mary’s internal conflict as she weighs the pros and cons of the opportunity. She confides in her friends and family, seeking their advice and support. The potential benefits of financial security and professional growth are juxtaposed with the emotional cost of severing her ties to the people and place she holds dear. This dilemma forms the crux of the episode, forcing Mary to confront what truly matters most to her.
The tension builds throughout the episode as Mary grapples with her decision. Flashbacks highlight cherished moments shared with her friends and neighbors at 227 Lexington Place, further emphasizing the importance of community in her life. The supporting characters also face their own smaller anxieties surrounding Mary’s potential departure, demonstrating the interconnectedness of their lives.
In the end, Mary makes the heartfelt decision to stay in Washington, D.C. She realizes that the intangible benefits of her strong relationships and community involvement far outweigh the financial gains offered by the Atlanta job. The episode concludes with a poignant celebration of community and the reaffirmation of the importance of human connection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About 227’s Final Episode
H3 What exactly was the job offer in Atlanta?
The job offer was for a management position within a large corporation. While the specifics of the company and her role weren’t explicitly detailed, it was presented as a significant career advancement for Mary, accompanied by a substantial salary increase and greater responsibilities. The appeal lay primarily in the promise of financial security and upward mobility.
H3 Why was the show canceled after five seasons?
While 227 enjoyed consistent ratings throughout its run, the decision to end the series after five seasons was largely attributed to creative differences and the desire of some of the cast members, particularly Marla Gibbs, to pursue other opportunities. Marla Gibbs, after starring in 227 for five seasons, was eager to explore new projects and roles.
H3 Did the final episode address the absence of Reggie (Curtis Baldwin)?
No, the final episode did not directly address the absence of Reggie. Curtis Baldwin, who played Mary and Lester’s son, Reggie, left the show after the fourth season. The reason for his departure was never explicitly stated on-screen, and his absence was largely ignored in the fifth season, including the finale.
H3 Were there any special guest stars in the final episode?
“The Big Decision” did not feature any notable guest stars. The episode focused primarily on the core cast and their reactions to Mary’s career dilemma. The emphasis was on the existing relationships and the close-knit community of 227 Lexington Place.
H3 What was the significance of the apartment building’s address, “227 Lexington Place”?
The address, 227 Lexington Place, served as more than just a location; it was a symbol of community, belonging, and shared experiences. The apartment building represented a safe haven where residents could find support, laughter, and companionship. The address itself became synonymous with the show’s themes and its portrayal of African American life.
H3 Did the final episode hint at any future storylines or possibilities?
No, “The Big Decision” was designed as a definitive conclusion to the series. There were no unresolved plot threads or hints at future storylines. The episode aimed to provide closure and reaffirm the central themes of the show, leaving viewers with a sense of satisfaction and completeness.
H3 How did Sandra Clark (Jackée Harry) react to Mary’s potential move?
Sandra Clark, Mary’s flamboyant and often gossipy neighbor, was deeply affected by the prospect of Mary leaving. While Sandra often poked fun at Mary and engaged in playful rivalry, she secretly valued their friendship and relied on Mary’s support. Sandra’s reaction underscored the depth of their bond and the disruption Mary’s departure would have caused.
H3 What was the critical reception of the final episode?
Critical reception of “The Big Decision” was generally positive. Many viewers appreciated the episode’s emphasis on community and the reaffirmation of the show’s core values. While some critics felt that the plot was somewhat predictable, they praised the performances of the cast and the episode’s heartwarming conclusion.
H3 Was there a series finale party or special event to commemorate the end of 227?
Information regarding a specific series finale party or special event to commemorate the end of 227 is difficult to confirm definitively. Public records and accounts of such events are scarce. However, it is likely that the cast and crew celebrated privately to mark the end of their five-year journey together.
H3 How does the finale of 227 compare to other sitcom finales of that era?
The finale of 227 aligns with the tone and style of many sitcom finales from the late 1980s and early 1990s. Like many shows of that era, it focused on providing closure and reaffirming the importance of family and community. Unlike some more ambitious finales, “The Big Decision” avoided sweeping changes or dramatic plot twists, opting for a more sentimental and heartwarming conclusion.
H3 What is the legacy of 227 in television history?
The legacy of 227 lies in its pioneering role in representing African American families and communities on television. The show provided a positive and relatable portrayal of African American life, challenging stereotypes and promoting cultural understanding. It paved the way for future sitcoms featuring predominantly African American casts and contributed to greater diversity in television programming.
H3 Where can I watch the final episode and the rest of the series today?
Currently, 227 is not widely available on major streaming platforms. However, episodes can sometimes be found for purchase or rental on digital platforms like Amazon Prime Video and iTunes. DVD sets of the series have also been released, offering another option for viewers to revisit the show. Checking local library systems is also a viable option for accessing the series.