Early Life and Background
Roxie Albertha Roker was born in Miami, Florida, to Bahamian parents on August 28, 1929. Her parents, Albert and Bessie Roker, nurtured her talents from a young age. Roxie’s passion for the arts led her to acting. Her diverse origins shaped her identity and future.
Career Breakthrough and Achievements
In 1973, Roxie Roker played Mattie Williams in the Broadway drama “The River Niger” to launch her acting career. She received a 28th Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actress in a Play for her critically lauded performance. She became a famous actress after this nomination.
From 1975 until 1985, Roker played Helen Willis on the CBS sitcom “The Jeffersons,” which made her famous. She was part of the first prime-time interracial coupling, advancing media representation. Audiences loved her and she opened up racial and relationship discussions in America.
Personal Life and Family
Roxie Roker married NBC producer Sy Kravitz in 1962. Interracial marriage was a social challenge at the time. Sy Kravitz’s parents apparently left the wedding because they didn’t agree. Roxie and Sy had Lenny Kravitz in 1964, a famous musician and actor, despite these challenges. Though they separated in 1985, their son continued their legacy.
Roxie Roker has extended family. The famous NBC weatherman Al Roker is her second cousin once removed. Al Roker found this family connection during a 2011 TODAY appearance by Lenny Kravitz.
Legacy and Impact
Roxie Roker, 66, died in Los Angeles on December 2, 1995. Her pioneering role in “The Jeffersons” and television changed the entertainment industry. Her acting skills and daring in defying social standards are noted.
Lenny Kravitz, Roker’s son, honors her via his work and public presence. She shows the value of media diversity and representation across generations.
FAQ
When did Roxie Roker pass away?
Roxie Roker died in Los Angeles on December 2, 1995. She died at 66.
How long did Roxie Roker and Sy Kravitz wed?
Roxie Roker marriage to Sy Kravitz lasted 23 years. They married 1962 and divorced 1985.
Is Lenny Kravitz’s father still alive?
No, Sy Kravitz died at 80 on October 29, 2005.
What connects Al Roker and Lenny Kravitz?
Roxie Roker’s second cousin removed is Al. Al and Roxie’s father, Albert Roker, were cousins. This was discovered by Lenny Kravitz and Al Roker in 2011.
What did Roxie Roker do on “The Jeffersons”?
Roxie Roker played Helen Willis on CBS’s “The Jeffersons,” the first interracial pair on American prime-time television.
What was Roxie Roker’s theater accomplishment?
Roxie Roker was nominated for Best Featured Actress in a Play at the 28th Tony Awards in 1973 for playing Mattie Williams in “The River Niger”.
