The final episode of 227, entitled “A Different World,” offered a bittersweet conclusion to the beloved sitcom. While Mary Jenkins secured a coveted teaching position in Atlanta, embarking on a new chapter with her husband Lester, the episode left some viewers with lingering questions and a sense of incompleteness regarding other character arcs.
Saying Goodbye to Baldwin Hills
227 resonated with audiences for five seasons by portraying the everyday lives of African Americans in a vibrant and relatable way. Set in a working-class neighborhood in Washington D.C., the show centered around the sharp-tongued and opinionated Mary Jenkins, her husband Lester, and their daughter Brenda, along with a colorful cast of neighbors and friends. The series was known for its humor, heartwarming moments, and willingness to address social issues, but its ending, particularly Mary’s sudden departure, left a mark on the show’s legacy.
The Core Plot of “A Different World”
The final episode revolves primarily around Mary’s job opportunity in Atlanta. After years of dedicated service to her community in D.C., she’s offered a position that aligns with her aspirations and provides greater financial security for her family. The episode showcases the emotional turmoil she experiences as she grapples with leaving behind her friends, family, and the familiar comforts of 227. Lester, ever supportive, encourages her to pursue the opportunity, emphasizing the importance of following her dreams.
Brenda’s storyline in the finale is less central but touches upon her own growth and aspirations. She expresses a mixture of excitement for her mother’s success and sadness at the prospect of moving away from her friends. However, it is the lack of definitive closure for other key characters, like Sandra Clark, that ultimately defined the episode’s mixed reception.
The Emotional Impact of Mary’s Departure
The episode leverages the emotional bonds established over the previous seasons. We see touching scenes between Mary and her friends, highlighting the deep connections they have forged. The episode attempts to capture the bittersweet feeling of saying goodbye – celebrating new beginnings while mourning the loss of the familiar. However, the rushed nature of the departure left some viewers feeling that the emotional weight of the move wasn’t fully explored.
Unresolved Storylines and Fan Reactions
While “A Different World” provided a degree of closure for the Jenkins family, it left many other storylines dangling. This lack of resolution, combined with the abrupt nature of Mary’s departure, contributed to mixed reactions from fans and critics. The show’s cancellation came somewhat unexpectedly, leading to a finale that felt more like a transition than a definitive ending.
The Fate of Sandra Clark
Perhaps the most significant point of contention regarding the finale was the lack of a clear ending for Sandra Clark. Her character, known for her sassy wit and comedic timing, was a vital part of the 227 ensemble. The final episode offered no resolution to her personal life, romantic pursuits, or career aspirations, leaving fans wondering about her future. This omission was particularly frustrating for many viewers who felt that Sandra deserved a more fitting sendoff.
Critical Reception and Legacy
Critical reception to the final episode was mixed. While some praised the episode’s attempt to provide closure for Mary and Lester, others criticized its rushed pacing and the lack of attention given to other significant characters. Over time, “A Different World” has become a symbol of both the show’s strengths and its limitations. It highlights the show’s ability to create relatable characters and explore meaningful themes, but also underscores the challenges of ending a series on short notice. Despite its flaws, 227 remains a beloved sitcom that paved the way for other African American sitcoms on television. Its impact on popular culture is undeniable, and its characters continue to resonate with audiences today.
Frequently Asked Questions about the 227 Finale
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding the final episode of 227:
FAQ 1: Why did Mary Jenkins leave 227?
Mary’s departure was primarily driven by Marla Gibbs’ desire to explore other opportunities and pursue her own show, Checking In. The decision was made relatively late in the production schedule, leading to a rushed and somewhat unsatisfying conclusion to her character arc.
FAQ 2: What happened to the other characters in the final episode?
While Mary’s departure was the central focus, the final episode offered little closure for other characters. Brenda showed initial sadness but then supported her mother’s decision. However, characters like Sandra Clark were left without a concrete ending, leaving their future ambiguous.
FAQ 3: Was there supposed to be a sixth season of 227?
There were discussions about a sixth season, but the show was ultimately canceled. The cancellation reportedly stemmed from declining ratings and Marla Gibbs’ departure, leading to the decision to conclude the series.
FAQ 4: What happened to the building at 227?
The show focused on the lives within the building rather than the fate of the building itself. The episode does not address what happens to the building after the Jenkins family leaves, leaving its future open to interpretation.
FAQ 5: Did Marla Gibbs return in later episodes as a guest star?
No, Marla Gibbs did not return as a guest star in subsequent episodes after the “A Different World” finale. Her exit marked the end of her character’s presence in the 227 universe.
FAQ 6: Why was there no spin-off show featuring Sandra Clark?
While Sandra Clark was a popular character, no concrete plans for a spin-off show ever materialized. The logistics of creating and launching a spin-off likely played a role in this decision.
FAQ 7: How did viewers react to the ending of 227?
Viewer reactions were mixed. Some appreciated the attempt to give Mary a happy ending, while others were disappointed by the lack of closure for other characters and the overall rushed feeling of the episode. Many felt that Sandra Clark deserved a better send-off.
FAQ 8: What other shows did the 227 cast members appear in after the series ended?
Marla Gibbs went on to star in Checking In, as mentioned, as well as numerous other television shows and movies. Jackée Harry continued her acting career with roles in Sister, Sister, Days of Our Lives, and numerous other projects.
FAQ 9: Was the title “A Different World” intentional, referencing the Cosby Show spin-off?
While never explicitly stated, the title “A Different World” likely served as a nod to the Cosby Show spin-off of the same name, perhaps suggesting a parallel move and a new beginning.
FAQ 10: How did 227 impact television representation of African American families?
227 played a significant role in improving the representation of African American families on television. It portrayed a working-class family in a positive and relatable light, breaking down stereotypes and providing a platform for important social issues.
FAQ 11: Where can I watch the final episode of 227?
227 is often available on streaming platforms that offer classic television series. Availability may vary depending on your region and subscription services. Check platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, or local cable on-demand services.
FAQ 12: What is 227‘s lasting legacy in television history?
227‘s legacy lies in its positive portrayal of African American family life, its comedic brilliance, and its ability to address social issues in a relatable way. The show helped pave the way for other African American sitcoms and remains a beloved classic in television history. Its enduring popularity speaks to the timeless themes of family, community, and the pursuit of dreams that resonated with audiences then and continue to resonate today.