Fans of groundbreaking 70’s sitcom ‘Good Times’ were stunned when reports surfaced the show’s star Ja’net Dubois (famous for her role as “Willona”) was found dead in her California home Tuesday (February 18).
An Emmy-winning actress, Dubois (aged 74) was also a celebrated singer-songwriter and was credited with penning the theme song to another groundbreaking 70’s sitcom – ‘The Jeffersons.’
As fans, admirers, and former co-stars of her many television projects extended their condolences to the late screen legend’s family, Pop queen Janet Jackson – who shared screen time with Dubois on ‘Good Times’ when she portrayed her adopted daughter “Penny” – joined the chorus by sharing her sympathy on social media.
See what she said inside:
Caption:
“I am so very saddened to hear my longtime friend Ja’Net DuBois has passed away. I saw first hand how she broke stereotypes and changed the landscape for Black women in entertainment.
I’m grateful in recent years I had a chance to see her and create more lasting memories. I pray for comfort for all her family and friends.
Thank you Ja’Net, I’ll miss you.”
*****
Jackson wasn’t the only ‘Good Times’ star to express her sadness. Bern Nadette Stanis, who portrayed “Thelma” on the series, also took to Instagram to say:
In December 2019, DuBois reunited with her former castmates Amos, Bern Nadette Stanis, and Jimmy Walker for ABC’s Live in Front of A Studio Audience. Although she didn’t reprise the role that made her a household name, she was dancing and clapping at a dress rehearsal attended by EW as audience members cheered to see them all together again on the recreated set [source].
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Another great person who i grew up watching, this year is starting out sooooo sad.
I legit never knew or noticed that her name was also Ja’Net.
Rest in Peace to a wonderful actress and singer Ja’net Dubois
Back in the day I thought her character’s name on Good Times was Bologna, which actually made me like her more. She was the reason I watched Good Times reruns and that was before Janet joined and she rescued Penny from horrifying abuse. I love how they stayed in contact over the years. I remember Ja’Net was in Janet’s “Control” video. RIP, Ms. Dubious. You brought the funny and the class.
When I was little I thought her name was Bologna too! She will be missed. Good Times is one of my all time favorite shows! I loved Ja’Net. She was like an aunt to many of her fans.
Rest In Paradise Ja’net Dubois??
This death really hurts. Feels like i’ve lost a family member
Ja’Net Dubois was a gifted and talented actress. I loved her on the Wayans Bros, but i especially loved her on Good Times. Thank You for making us laugh.
Mau your beautiful soul rest in peace my Prayer to your family.
This is so unbelievably sad to me. Good Times is my ALL TIME favorite sitcom. Ja’Net was so gifted and a thriller threat . I remember when she carried the show when Esther Role and a john Amos left
Rest In Peace Ja’Net Dubois
What a beautiful sister she was! Her role on Good Times was like a “Sondra” before Jackee Harry came on the scene.
I am shocked and sad. God bless her soul and her family.