Finally, after reading the 1974 issue of Ebony Magazine, i was able to find out that Good Times was not a spinoff of Maude. In the Article it states that Norman Lear asked Mike Evans-Lionel on the Jeffersons, to create a show for Esther Rolle that would make her the star of the show. That is why CBS sent a camera crew out to the Chicago Gettho to give the shw it's own IDENTITY!! So Good Times was basically a ideA that creator Eric Monte came up with that have nothing to do with Maude. They just forget to give the mother and father different names. Boy was that a big mistake. It clearly states that John Amos and Esther Rolle were such big hits on Maude that the were GIVEN there own show not SPINOFFed into their own series. So there, no more discussion about Good Times being a spinoff because it was in no way connected to Maude. I have been saying this long before i read the article in Ebony Magazine.

Well, 'identity' can mean various things. If a show doesn't have it's own identity and is connected with the parent show too much, it can cause a show to not get a large audience. That was a large error with the spinoff of the drama Dynasty - The Colbys. The show was too much connected to the parent show and because of this it couldn't come up with many plots that wern't connected to DYN until the second season. 'Identity' would mean it would be different from other shows - not the same old, same old.

In many places, it says Norman Fell and Audra Lindley were given their own show - The Ropers. Yet TR was a spinoff. So it depends on what they mean.

Yeah, some of the things were messed up between Maude and Good Times. I dunno. I would still consider it a spinoff. *shrug* I remember reading that a lot of changes happened between the Empty Nest pilot on The Golden Girls and Empty Nest, characterwise, yet it's still considered a spinoff. *Shrug*

SOLOMON you have got to let this thing rest. That article does NOT say that it was "not" a spinoff. It is as clear as day, man. You said in the posting that it was the article that said that it was an "idea" . Spinoffs are ideas that are taken from one area and full blown into something else. They did not forget to "change the names of the characters". They knew what they were doing. It seems as though you are using your own logic to come up with this answer. Florida Evans' character was spun off. There is no doubt about that.

Originally posted by ThomasE
SOLOMON you have got to let this thing rest. That article does NOT say that it was "not" a spinoff. It is as clear as day, man. You said in the posting that it was the article that said that it was an "idea" . Spinoffs are ideas that are taken from one area and full blown into something else. They did not forget to "change the names of the characters". They knew what they were doing. It seems as though you are using your own logic to come up with this answer. Florida Evans' character was spun off. There is no doubt about that.


Well until someone comes up with a good explanation about why Good Times was based in Chicago and not NY, then Good Times will always be it's own show and not a spinoff.

Originally posted by SOLOMON



Well until someone comes up with a good explanation about why Good Times was based in Chicago and not NY, then Good Times will always be it's own show and not a spinoff.

SOLOMON you have crew memeber who were interviewed for the "E" true Hollywood story that state it was a spinoff of Maude. Yes, I see the fact that the show had it's own identity but it was spunoff. Setting location for the spinoff did not matter in this case, characters did. You can't post this as factual because it is your opinion from what you have read. Location does not matter, you have to understand that.

Originally posted by ThomasE


SOLOMON you have crew memeber who were interviewed for the "E" true Hollywood story that state it was a spinoff of Maude. Yes, I see the fact that the show had it's own identity but it was spunoff. Setting location for the spinoff did not matter in this case, characters did. You can't post this as factual because it is your opinion from what you have read. Location does not matter, you have to understand that.

These spinoffs support my argument.
Laverne and Shirley-same city as Happy days

Jeffersons same State as All in the Family

Ropers same State as Three's Company

Now there were other spinoffs tha were in other cities but there was a explanation on why that character was in that city

Rhoda
Phyllis
Frasier
Mork and Mindy.

Originally posted by SOLOMON


These spinoffs support my argument.
Laverne and Shirley-same city as Happy days

Jeffersons same State as All in the Family

Ropers same State as Three's Company

Now there were other spinoffs tha were in other cities but there was a explanation on why that character was in that city

Rhoda
Phyllis
Frasier
Mork and Mindy.

Good Times is a spinoff. It's fragmented I'll admit that but Florida Evans was spunoff into her own world, man. City location alone is not supportive material to state whether a show is a spinoff or not. As far as explanation goes, it's TV they can do what they want. I didn't agree with the way it was done but TV is about creativity.

Originally posted by ThomasE


Good Times is a spinoff. It's fragmented I'll admit that but Florida Evans was spunoff into her own world, man. City location alone is not supportive material to state whether a show is a spinoff or not. As far as explanation goes, it's TV they can do what they want. I didn't agree with the way it was done but TV is about creativity.


Well i'm going to watch the true hollywood story of Good Times right now because i don't remember hearing someone say that Good Times was a spinoff-So i have to see if i hear that.

Originally posted by ThomasE


Good Times is a spinoff. It's fragmented I'll admit that but Florida Evans was spunoff into her own world, man. City location alone is not supportive material to state whether a show is a spinoff or not. As far as explanation goes, it's TV they can do what they want. I didn't agree with the way it was done but TV is about creativity.


Well one of the writers did mention spinoff but without a explanation on why was Good Times based in Chicago

Originally posted by SOLOMON



Well one of the writers did mention spinoff but without a explanation on why was Good Times based in Chicago

There. You have a writer saying the same thing. John Ritter said it too in the 1st annual TV Land Awards promo. It's in all the Tv books. Besides, it's so obvious, James and Florida go from one show to another in same the same character form. If they wanted to switch to Chicago, that's their business. I wish they would have remained in NY or at least moved to Chicago, but they did what they wanted. Another fragmented spinoff was "Billy" from Head of the Class. He moved in with a female professor and married her so he could keep his green card and played his same character on Head of the Class.

Originally posted by ThomasE


There. You have a writer saying the same thing. John Ritter said it too in the 1st annual TV Land Awards promo. It's in all the Tv books. Besides, it's so obvious, James and Florida go from one show to another in same the same character form. If they wanted to switch to Chicago, that's their business. I wish they would have remained in NY or at least moved to Chicago, but they did what they wanted. Another fragmented spinoff was "Billy" from Head of the Class. He moved in with a female professor and married her so he could keep his green card and played his same character on Head of the Class.

Ok Thmomas, i received the 1975 issue of Ebony Magazine today in the mail and here is a quote by producer Allan Manings, "It wasn't really a spinoff," "It was one characer and we have changed that character".


So there is proof that Good Times was not a spinoff of Maude.

Originally posted by ThomasE


There. You have a writer saying the same thing. John Ritter said it too in the 1st annual TV Land Awards promo. It's in all the Tv books. Besides, it's so obvious, James and Florida go from one show to another in same the same character form. If they wanted to switch to Chicago, that's their business. I wish they would have remained in NY or at least moved to Chicago, but they did what they wanted. Another fragmented spinoff was "Billy" from Head of the Class. He moved in with a female professor and married her so he could keep his green card and played his same character on Head of the Class.


Also in the article, Esther Rolle explains that her role on Good Times is far different from her role on Maude. She explained that the change of the Florida Evans character was natural. Her quote was "You are seeing a different side of Florida Evans, What I do in my madam's house is a facade, what i do at home is me" Now would I make all of this up????

Originally posted by SOLOMON

Also in the article, Esther Rolle explains that her role on Good Times is far different from her role on Maude. She explained that the change of the Florida Evans character was natural. Her quote was "You are seeing a different side of Florida Evans, What I do in my madam's house is a facade, what i do at home is me" Now would I make all of this up????

Just because it's far different doesn't mean it's a different character. If Maude, for example, turned into a serial killer who liked to murder innocent chickens, she would still be the same Maude but Maude would be far different from the way she once was. It sounds more like she's saying the character's evolved.

Originally posted by Sean Snow


Just because it's far different doesn't mean it's a different character. If Maude, for example, turned into a serial killer who liked to murder innocent chickens, she would still be the same Maude but Maude would be far different from the way she once was. It sounds more like she's saying the character's evolved.


Sean please don't try and debate this anymore because I have posted the statment by produer Allan Manings who said "it wasn't really a spinoff, it was one character and we have changed that character. So this is no longer a debate.

Well it still is up for debate if you ask me. We have two different sources saying two different things. It still appears spinoffish. Overall it is, anyone could see that. Anyway, SOLOMON, why are you so insistent on this topic anyway? Just wondering.

Originally posted by ThomasE
Well it still is up for debate if you ask me. We have two different sources saying two different things. It still appears spinoffish. Overall it is, anyone could see that. Anyway, SOLOMON, why are you so insistent on this topic anyway? Just wondering.


I guess i can't believe so many people still see Good Times as a spinoff. I just wanted to show that Good Times was a show that was not apart of Maude's reality. Florida Evans on a Maude was a woman who worked as a maid to support her family, Florida Evans on Good Times was a housewife in CHICAGO. The producers just forgot to change the name.

Originally posted by SOLOMON



I guess i can't believe so many people still see Good Times as a spinoff. I just wanted to show that Good Times was a show that was not apart of Maude's reality. Florida Evans on a Maude was a woman who worked as a maid to support her family, Florida Evans on Good Times was a housewife in CHICAGO. The producers just forgot to change the name.

Trust me, I believe they kept it that way for some purpose. OS for a moment, do you have the ADW ep entitled "My Dinner With Theo"?

Originally posted by ThomasE


Trust me, I believe they kept it that way for some purpose. OS for a moment, do you have the ADW ep entitled "My Dinner With Theo"?

That's the ADW episode I'm ttying to buy from you. Check the ADW board. Thomas I can see that since the names of the character Florida Evans is consisent but so many other things are not. But i don't know what else I can say because the producer made it clear 28 years ago by saying it wasn't a spinoff

Originally posted by SOLOMON


That's the ADW episode I'm ttying to buy from you. Check the ADW board. Thomas I can see that since the names of the character Florida Evans is consisent but so many other things are not. But i don't know what else I can say because the producer made it clear 28 years ago by saying it wasn't a spinoff

It still does not gel to me. The writer say one thing but the producer says another. Florida Evans was taken from one world and now is in her own. Spinoff is the word that comes to mind. I have a feeling that this topic will never die. LOL. Anyways, I think I do have "M.D.W.T." in my collection but will tape it from Oxygen for you this upcoming Tuesday. BTW, I was wondering if you had that address from the Ebony archives. I am editing the "Baby I'm Back" board on Tv tome and need pics of the cast. Maybe I will find something from there.

Originally posted by ThomasE


It still does not gel to me. The writer say one thing but the producer says another. Florida Evans was taken from one world and now is in her own. Spinoff is the word that comes to mind. I have a feeling that this topic will never die. LOL. Anyways, I think I do have "M.D.W.T." in my collection but will tape it from Oxygen for you this upcoming Tuesday. BTW, I was wondering if you had that address from the Ebony archives. I am editing the "Baby I'm Back" board on Tv tome and need pics of the cast. Maybe I will find something from there.


Ok i will check back with you about the M.D.W.T episode on wednesday and I think the address is ebony.com I still have not seen Baby I'm Back and I think it started in 1978 but I don't know if that was the fall or spring. I have the Fall preview of 78 Tv guide and Baby I'm Back was not listed as a new show for the 78-79 season so it must was a midseason replacement in spring of 78.

Originally posted by SOLOMON



Ok i will check back with you about the M.D.W.T episode on wednesday and I think the address is ebony.com I still have not seen Baby I'm Back and I think it started in 1978 but I don't know if that was the fall or spring. I have the Fall preview of 78 Tv guide and Baby I'm Back was not listed as a new show for the 78-79 season so it must was a midseason replacement in spring of 78.

It started as a midseason show on Jan. 30th, 1978. Canceled and then you saw Kim fields who was on the show on Good Times in her recurring role later on in 1978.

Originally posted by ThomasE


It started as a midseason show on Jan. 30th, 1978. Canceled and then you saw Kim fields who was on the show on Good Times in her recurring role later on in 1978.


Yeah i just saw that it came on Saturday nights on CBS at 8;30pm. I thought it came on Monday night at 8;30pm. I have the tv guide off 78 and the last airing of Baby i'm back on CBS was August 5, 1978.

Originally posted by SOLOMON



Yeah i just saw that it came on Saturday nights on CBS at 8;30pm. I thought it came on Monday night at 8;30pm. I have the tv guide off 78 and the last airing of Baby i'm back on CBS was August 5, 1978.

What do you have? Paperback or did you get off the internet?

Originally posted by ThomasE


What do you have? Paperback or did you get off the internet?

The actual paperback TV Guide, Aug 5-11 1978. I ordered the tv guide from ebay.

Originally posted by ThomasE


What do you have? Paperback or did you get off the internet?

Do you know how I can get episodes of Baby, I'm Back? I actually thought it was a good show. Have no idea why it didn't last.

From what I remember about the E! True Hollywood Story of Good Times, co-creator Eric Monte originally created Good Times with Michael Evans back around 1971 or 1972 as a show called The Black Family, about a black family whose last name happened to be Black. CBS and Norman Lear probably took that concept and transferred the Maude character Florida Evans into it. I cannot remember ever seeing the first episode of Good Times, so I do not know how Florida ended up in Chicago instead of New York. Also, while John Amos played Florida's husband in Maude as well as Good Times, his first name in Maude was Henry, not James.

Originally posted by jehobden
From what I remember about the E! True Hollywood Story of Good Times, co-creator Eric Monte originally created Good Times with Michael Evans back around 1971 or 1972 as a show called The Black Family, about a black family whose last name happened to be Black. CBS and Norman Lear probably took that concept and transferred the Maude character Florida Evans into it. I cannot remember ever seeing the first episode of Good Times, so I do not know how Florida ended up in Chicago instead of New York. Also, while John Amos played Florida's husband in Maude as well as Good Times, his first name in Maude was Henry, not James.


Well you don't have to figure out how Florida Evans ended up in Chicago because the producer clearly stated that Good Times was not a spinoff. The first episode of Good times has nothing to do with her last appearance on Maude. On the last episode of Maude she doesn't haVE to work because her husband has a job and on the first episode of Good Times Florida and her Family are about to get evicted.

Originally posted by SOLOMON


Do you know how I can get episodes of Baby, I'm Back? I actually thought it was a good show. Have no idea why it didn't last.

I have nine episodes. If you are also looking for the ep guide, I did create it on the "tvtome.com" website. How do you remember Baby I'm Back"

Originally posted by ThomasE


I have nine episodes. If you are also looking for the ep guide, I did create it on the "tvtome.com" website. How do you remember Baby I'm Back"


YOU HAVE BABY I"M BACK!!!!!-YES. Please let's work out a deal. I would like to buy all 9 episodes. My email is solomond@webtv.net. I remember the show when it ran on BET in 91. I was only 3 years old when it aired in 78.

Originally posted by SOLOMON



YOU HAVE BABY I"M BACK!!!!!-YES. Please let's work out a deal. I would like to buy all 9 episodes. My email is solomond@webtv.net. I remember the show when it ran on BET in 91. I was only 3 years old when it aired in 78.

I'll e-mail you. I taped them back in 1989-1990 and 1992-1993 off BET. BTW, it will be $14 per episode.............LOL. I just wanted get your reaction with that last comment.:lol:

Originally posted by ThomasE


I'll e-mail you. I taped them back in 1989-1990 and 1992-1993 off BET. BTW, it will be $14 per episode.............LOL. I just wanted get your reaction with that last comment.:lol:

LMAO-if you could have seen my face when I read $14. LOL

OK, today I just got a response from somebody who worked for Norman Lear's company during the 1970s and here is what he had to say about this:


Well, "Good Times" WAS a spin-off of Maude. It qualifies as a spin-off simply because the character of Flordia Evans first was on Maude then was moved to her own series, "Good Times". That qualifies as a spin-off in every traditional sense of the term.

Now, the fact that the character of J.J. quickly evolved into "the star" of the show may make some believe "Good Times" was a show in its own right. But, "GT" was a spin-off of "Maude".

Originally posted by BJL
OK, today I just got a response from somebody who worked for Norman Lear's company during the 1970s and here is what he had to say about this:


Well, "Good Times" WAS a spin-off of Maude. It qualifies as a spin-off simply because the character of Flordia Evans first was on Maude then was moved to her own series, "Good Times". That qualifies as a spin-off in every traditional sense of the term.

Now, the fact that the character of J.J. quickly evolved into "the star" of the show may make some believe "Good Times" was a show in its own right. But, "GT" was a spin-off of "Maude".


I can't believe this is still an issue. Producer Alan Manings stated that the character Florida Evans was WRITTEN OUT of Maude instead of TRANSITIONED OFF MAUDE. Good Times is not a spinoff.

Just admit that you're wrong for once, Solomon.

Originally posted by *~PinkLady59~*
Just admit that you're wrong for once, Solomon.


I'm not wrong because I have the 1974 article to prove it. Just wish i post it so that this issue would be done.

Originally posted by SOLOMON



I'm not wrong because I have the 1974 article to prove it. Just wish i post it so that this issue would be done.

I got this information from a person who worked for Norman Lear's production company. It's like getting it straight from the horse's mouth. And didn't you read it thoroughly?

"It qualifies as a spin-off simply because the character of Flordia Evans first was on Maude then was moved to her own series, "Good Times". That qualifies as a spin-off in every traditional sense of the term."


And I am really starting to doubt the credibility of your Ebony Magazine.

http://www.sitcomsonline.com/boards/showthread.php?threadid=62344

Originally posted by BJL


I got this information from a person who worked for Norman Lear's production company. It's like getting it straight from the horse's mouth. And didn't you read it thoroughly?

"It qualifies as a spin-off simply because the character of Flordia Evans first was on Maude then was moved to her own series, "Good Times". That qualifies as a spin-off in every traditional sense of the term."


And I am really starting to doubt the credibility of your Ebony Magazine.

http://www.sitcomsonline.com/boards/showthread.php?threadid=62344


Why are you doubting the credibiity of the magazine?

here is what you said in that thread:


Well I was too young in 1976 to know the real reason why Mike Evans left but i started piecing things together and I figured out why Mike Evans left the show after season one. I read the 1976 issue of Ebony magazine and it was reported that Mike left because he was used less and less during season one. I guess he felt that he was the first jefferson character and was pushed to the side for Sherman Hemsley. I came to that conclusion also because I noticed he was not seen in more than one episode. So I figured it out before I read the magazine. Now it's confirmed that Sherman Hemsley took the spotlight away from Mike Evans.

This person that gave me the information on Good Times said this:

I would like to clear the air on this. I worked for the Norman Lear production company in 1975 when "The Jeffersons" premiered. Evans left the show to focus on "Good Times" which he co-created. He was gone from 1975-79 to work on "Good Times" and once that show ended he returned to "The Jeffersons". There was no resentment between Hemsley and Evans whatsoever. As a matter of fact, I recall "The Jeffersons" being one of the more happy environments to work on. It was a professional, talented cast and crew and during the five years I worked for Lear's company, I do not recall troubles on that set.

Another thing is that Alan Manings was just an executive producer. If I were to hear from the two co-creators Mike Evans and this other person whom I can't remember that Good Times was not a spinoff, then I would be more inclined to believe so.

How about I make a deal with you? If I send you a tape of a TV show of your choice (if I have any), could you send me a copy of "Ebony Magazine?"

Originally posted by BJL
here is what you said in that thread:


Well I was too young in 1976 to know the real reason why Mike Evans left but i started piecing things together and I figured out why Mike Evans left the show after season one. I read the 1976 issue of Ebony magazine and it was reported that Mike left because he was used less and less during season one. I guess he felt that he was the first jefferson character and was pushed to the side for Sherman Hemsley. I came to that conclusion also because I noticed he was not seen in more than one episode. So I figured it out before I read the magazine. Now it's confirmed that Sherman Hemsley took the spotlight away from Mike Evans.

This person that gave me the information on Good Times said this:

I would like to clear the air on this. I worked for the Norman Lear production company in 1975 when "The Jeffersons" premiered. Evans left the show to focus on "Good Times" which he co-created. He was gone from 1975-79 to work on "Good Times" and once that show ended he returned to "The Jeffersons". There was no resentment between Hemsley and Evans whatsoever. As a matter of fact, I recall "The Jeffersons" being one of the more happy environments to work on. It was a professional, talented cast and crew and during the five years I worked for Lear's company, I do not recall troubles on that set.

Another thing is that Alan Manings was just an executive producer. If I were to hear from the two co-creators Mike Evans and this other person whom I can't remember that Good Times was not a spinoff, then I would be more inclined to believe so.

How about I make a deal with you? If I send you a tape of a TV show of your choice (if I have any), could you send me a copy of "Ebony Magazine?"


Yeah i wouldn't have a problem sending you a copy of both articles about the Jeffersons and Good times. I never said Mike Evans left the show because he had problems with Sherman. He left because his role on the show became too small. I have another source backing that up-The Jeffersons Book. Mike Evans asked NormaN Lear can he leave the show and Lear told him that will not be a problem. What shows do you have in your collection?

E-mail me at buddylafferty85@yahoo.com and we'll discuss it.

Originally posted by SOLOMON

I can't believe this is still an issue. Producer Alan Manings stated that the character Florida Evans was WRITTEN OUT of Maude instead of TRANSITIONED OFF MAUDE. Good Times is not a spinoff.

People get written off of shows to do spinoff. For example, the Ropers were written out of Three's Company so they could do their spinoff.

Originally posted by Sean Snow


People get written off of shows to do spinoff. For example, the Ropers were written out of Three's Company so they could do their spinoff.


The Ropers was not witten off because the pilot episode of the Ropers was a three's company episode. I don't know the word i'm looking for but they was not written off.

Originally posted by SOLOMON



The Ropers was not witten off because the pilot episode of the Ropers was a three's company episode. I don't know the word i'm looking for but they was not written off.

The Ropers pilot was an episode of The Ropers (if you're referencing to "Moving On") which is rerun with the opening credits of TC. Also, when a character is written out that means they are off the show. The Ropers WERE off the show, weren't they?

Also, you said:

"Why are you doubting the credibiity of the magazine?"

earlier. Are you doubting the credibility of the numerous television specials and written documents that state Good Times is a spinoff?

Originally posted by Sean Snow


The Ropers pilot was an episode of The Ropers (if you're referencing to "Moving On") which is rerun with the opening credits of TC. Also, when a character is written out that means they are off the show. The Ropers WERE off the show, weren't they?

Also, you said:

"Why are you doubting the credibiity of the magazine?"

earlier. Are you doubting the credibility of the numerous television specials and written documents that state Good Times is a spinoff.


Well i have the article and the statement was very clear by Alan Manings-Good Times was not a spinoff because they Changed the Florida Evans character. So instead of being Florida Evans who worked for Maude and married to Henry Evans in the state of NY, she became the Forida Evans who was married to JAMES evans who had 3 children a living in Chicago Family Housing Project. Does it now make sense to You? Because if not i don't know what else to say.

Originally posted by BJL

This person that gave me the information on Good Times said this:

I would like to clear the air on this. I worked for the Norman Lear production company in 1975 when "The Jeffersons" premiered. Evans left the show to focus on "Good Times" which he co-created. He was gone from 1975-79 to work on "Good Times" and once that show ended he returned to "The Jeffersons". There was no resentment between Hemsley and Evans whatsoever. As a matter of fact, I recall "The Jeffersons" being one of the more happy environments to work on. It was a professional, talented cast and crew and during the five years I worked for Lear's company, I do not recall troubles on that set.

Another thing is that Alan Manings was just an executive producer. If I were to hear from the two co-creators Mike Evans and this other person whom I can't remember that Good Times was not a spinoff, then I would be more inclined to believe so.


TV Guide profiled Mike Evans early in 1980, shortly after his return to The Jeffersons, and I remember that Norman Lear made statements, which I cannot remember the exact words of right now, that led me to believe that Evans left the series the first time under less than amicable circumstances but was happy then. Apparently he wasn't happy for long, since he left the series for good shortly after then, in what I remember reading was a contract dispute.

Also, the Good Times co-creator's name is Eric Monte. He was interviewed on-camera about how his and Evans' "The Black Family" pilot eventually evolved into Good Times. I don't remember either of them being credited with any continuing position with the series, such as executive producer. I thought they had no involvement with the series beyond writing the original pilot that was the basis for Good Times.

Why do you people bother to argue with a pig headed individual like Solomon. He claims to be a sitcom analyzer, yet doesn't know squat about television. Good Times has and always will be a spinoff. THE END!

Originally posted by Brian Damage
Why do you people bother to argue with a pig headed individual like Solomon. He claims to be a sitcom analyzer, yet doesn't know squat about television. Good Times has and always will be a spinoff. THE END!


Here are some more facts that supports Good Times wasn't a spinoff

!. Good Times first aired on February 1, 1974. Which was four days before the Maude Episode-"Florida's Goodbye" which was aired on February 5, 1974. So how could a spinoff start before her last appearance on Maude Brian????????????????????

2. The scripts for Good Times was written in 1971. Maude first aired in 1972 so explain that BRIAN?????????

I can't wait to hear your explanation

Maude- Florida Evans

Good Times- Florida Evans


If there was no Maude, there would be no Good Times. Get it?!?

Originally posted by Brian Damage
Maude- Florida Evans

Good Times- Florida Evans


If there was no Maude, there would be no Good Times. Get it?!?


Haven't heard of people having the same name? If there is a Mike Jones in Florida did you know there is another Mike Jones somewhere else in the U.S? So Florida Evans on Maude was Married to Henry Evans and lived in NEw York. Florida Evans on Good Times was married to JAMES EVANS and lived in Chicago. DOES ANY OF THIS MAKE SENSE TO YOU???

That's the exact same question I'd like to ask you. Does any of this make sense to you. You are wrong as usual and want people to believe that your right. Good Times has always been a spinoff of Maude and always will be.

Originally posted by Brian Damage
That's the exact same question I'd like to ask you. Does any of this make sense to you. You are wrong as usual and want people to believe that your right. Good Times has always been a spinoff of Maude and always will be.


Do you want me to mail u a copy of the article that supports that Good Times is not a spinoff? If no, then this discussion is over.

Yes I do...I also want you to stop pretending you know about sitcoms because you don't. You seem to twist things to make yourself look smart.

Originally posted by Brian Damage
Yes I do...I also want you to stop pretending you know about sitcoms because you don't. You seem to twist things to make yourself look smart.


Do you have anything for trade you can send me like a episode of a show?

Originally posted by SOLOMON

Haven't heard of people having the same name? If there is a Mike Jones in Florida did you know there is another Mike Jones somewhere else in the U.S? So Florida Evans on Maude was Married to Henry Evans and lived in NEw York. Florida Evans on Good Times was married to JAMES EVANS and lived in Chicago. DOES ANY OF THIS MAKE SENSE TO YOU???

You don't have two popular characters have the same name in the same time frame on TV. It only causes confusion, unless it's a spinoff. Look, SOLOMON: No matter what you say, just about everyone will continue to view Good Times as a spinoff. Why? Because your points aren't very good. All of what you say relies on one article and your own personal opinion; what we say relies on multiple references. Believe what you want, but you'll probably be the only one believing it.

And please, don't ask me once again 'do you understand now' or something to that effect. Yes, I understand, and everytime I look over what you're saying it only seems more moronic and idiotic and almost completely baseless.

Originally posted by Sean Snow


You don't have two popular characters have the same name in the same time frame on TV. It only causes confusion, unless it's a spinoff. Look, SOLOMON: No matter what you say, just about everyone will continue to view Good Times as a spinoff. Why? Because your points aren't very good. All of what you say relies on one article and your own personal opinion; what we say relies on multiple references. Believe what you want, but you'll probably be the only one believing it.

And please, don't ask me once again 'do you understand now' or something to that effect. Yes, I understand, and everytime I look over what you're saying it only seems more moronic and idiotic and almost completely baseless.


Just let me know if you have something to mail me if i mailed you this article explaining Good times is not a spinoff.

Originally posted by SOLOMON

Just let me know if you have something to mail me if i mailed you this article explaining Good times is not a spinoff.

- sigh - I don't want the article. You posted what it said, and it doesn't convince me. You're only assuming on wording. I won't believe Good Times isn't a spinoff until I see in print that it definately is not a spinoff. Your assumptions from this article appear to be completely baseless to me, and I'm not alone because apparently no one else believes it isn't a spinoff... - sigh - What is the point of arguing with you? You just go on and on and on and on and on. O_O

Originally posted by Sean Snow


- sigh - I don't want the article. You posted what it said, and it doesn't convince me. You're only assuming on wording. I won't believe Good Times isn't a spinoff until I see in print that it definately is not a spinoff. Your assumptions from this article appear to be completely baseless to me, and I'm not alone because apparently no one else believes it isn't a spinoff... - sigh - What is the point of arguing with you? You just go on and on and on and on and on. O_O



Well the executive producer Alan Manings said it as clear day. "We changed the Florida Evans character and that's why Good Times is not really a spinoff. Also Sean, did you know that Good Times was created before Maude?????????- Enough Said

Originally posted by SOLOMON

Well the executive producer Alan Manings said it as clear day. "We changed the Florida Evans character and that's why Good Times is not really a spinoff. Also Sean, did you know that Good Times was created before Maude?????????- Enough Said

So what if it was created in the minds of the creators before "Maude"? "Knots Landing" was created before "Dallas" by David Jacobs, but KL ended up becoming a spinoff of "Dallas." So it's possible for a spinoff to be created before it's parent show and still be a spinoff.

And earlier, you said the article said this:
"Producer Alan Manings stated that the character Florida Evans was WRITTEN OUT of Maude instead of TRANSITIONED OFF MAUDE. Good Times is not a spinoff."

Which is it SOLOMON? I don't recall you ever saying that Alan said those exact words, which makes me curious because those words would've backed you up more than anything else in that article. Mmhmm. I smell something fishy in Denmark. And it sure isn't fish.

And I honestly don't care what you say anymore, so don't try to convince me with anything. And it's obvious you haven't convinced anyone else, either, because I don't see anyone agreeing.

Originally posted by Sean Snow


So what if it was created in the minds of the creators before "Maude"? "Knots Landing" was created before "Dallas" by David Jacobs, but KL ended up becoming a spinoff of "Dallas." So it's possible for a spinoff to be created before it's parent show and still be a spinoff.

And earlier, you said the article said this:
"Producer Alan Manings stated that the character Florida Evans was WRITTEN OUT of Maude instead of TRANSITIONED OFF MAUDE. Good Times is not a spinoff."

Which is it SOLOMON? I don't recall you ever saying that Alan said those exact words, which makes me curious because those words would've backed you up more than anything else in that article. Mmhmm. I smell something fishy in Denmark. And it sure isn't fish.

And I honestly don't care what you say anymore, so don't try to convince me with anything. And it's obvious you haven't convinced anyone else, either, because I don't see anyone agreeing.



Look, Eric Monte and Mike Evans created Good Times in 1971, The scripts were already written and were being worked on from 1971-1974 by Alan Manings. And Sean you should be the first person to agree with me if you have the Maude episode Florida;s Goodbye. If you seen that episode and the first episode of Good Times then me and you have nothing else to talk about because you know and I know it's not a connection. Also Good Times started before Floria's last appeArance on maude. Good times started Feb 1, 1974 and her last appearance on Maude was Feb 5, 1974.

"Well until someone comes up with a good explanation about why Good Times was based in Chicago and not NY, then Good Times will always be it's own show and not a spinoff"

Many spinoffs took place in different locations than the original series.

Frasier, Rhoda, Lou Grant, Gomer Pyle to name a few.

Originally posted by 623e68thst
"Well until someone comes up with a good explanation about why Good Times was based in Chicago and not NY, then Good Times will always be it's own show and not a spinoff"

Many spinoffs took place in different locations than the original series.

Frasier, Rhoda, Lou Grant, Gomer Pyle to name a few.



THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!. That's what i have been saying for months. There is no connection since Good times was based in CHICAGO and Maude was based in NEW YORK-THE END

Originally posted by Sitcom Analyzer
THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!. That's what i have been saying for months. There is no connection since Good times was based in CHICAGO and Maude was based in NEW YORK-THE END

You do realize that the first part of his post was a quote of you? All he said was that spinoffs can be set in different places other than the parent show's location...which everyone who has posted in this thread seems to agree with.

Originally posted by Sean Snow
You do realize that the first part of his post was a quote of you? All he said was that spinoffs can be set in different places other than the parent show's location...which everyone who has posted in this thread seems to agree with.


LOL-No i didn't even realize it because my screen name wasn't above the statement. I have to respond again.

Originally posted by 623e68thst
"Well until someone comes up with a good explanation about why Good Times was based in Chicago and not NY, then Good Times will always be it's own show and not a spinoff"

Many spinoffs took place in different locations than the original series.

Frasier, Rhoda, Lou Grant, Gomer Pyle to name a few.


Fraiser, Rhoda, and Lou Grant all had explanations for their relocations.


Fraiser-he returned to his hometown-Seattle

Rhoda-returned to her hometown in New York

Lou Grant-he was fired and relocated to LA to start a new career


Maude-Florida stopped being a Maid to become a housewife-IN NEW YORK

Good Times-Florida lived in Chicago and they were being evicted. How did they get there? NEVER EXPLAINED

Originally posted by Sitcom Analyzer
Fraiser, Rhoda, and Lou Grant all had explanations for their relocations.


Fraiser-he returned to his hometown-Seattle

Rhoda-returned to her hometown in New York

Lou Grant-he was fired and relocated to LA to start a new career


Maude-Florida stopped being a Maid to become a housewife-IN NEW YORK

Good Times-Florida lived in Chicago and they were being evicted. How did they get there? NEVER EXPLAINED


Just because it was never explained doesn't mean that there is no explanation possible. Also, even with inconsistencies, it can still be a spin-off. Inconsistencies even exist among episodes within a series. The bottom line is that Florida Evans was on Maude and then got her own show, thus Good Times was a Maude spin-off. End of story.

Originally posted by GeeBee
Just because it was never explained doesn't mean that there is no explanation possible. Also, even with inconsistencies, it can still be a spin-off. Inconsistencies even exist among episodes within a series. The bottom line is that Florida Evans was on Maude and then got her own show, thus Good Times was a Maude spin-off. End of story.


The executive producer stated in 1975 that Good Times is not a spinoff-if you want a copy of that article let me know

Originally posted by Sitcom Analyzer
The executive producer stated in 1975 that Good Times is not a spinoff-if you want a copy of that article let me know


So, if I paint a picture and say it's not a painting because of a particular style I used, does that make it so? I really think you're looking too hard for a concrete definition for spin-off (as if it was some scientific fact that could be proved or disproved). Most people consider a spin-off any show that was inspired by a character from a previous show. Sometimes producers and actors may try to make their shows stand out by differentiating it from the usual. I remember when Carol O'Connor once said that All In The Family was not a "situation comedy" because the plots were based on personalities, not situations. It's all playing with words and subjective terms. For all practical reasons, Good Times is a spin-off and All In The Family is a sitcom and I really don't see the tragedy in any of that.

Originally posted by Sitcom Analyzer
The executive producer stated in 1975 that Good Times is not a spinoff-if you want a copy of that article let me know

Are you sure you didn't somehow misunderstand this infamous article?

Originally posted by *~PinkLady59~*
Are you sure you didn't somehow misunderstand this infamous article?


Nope, it's clear as day-"Good Times is not really a spinoff because we changed the Florida Evans character" If you want a copy let me know.

Have you ever considered that even though he is the executive producer that he may be wrong? His assertion that
Good Times is not a spinoff because they changed the Florida character is a bunch of bull manure if you ask me. Esther Rolle appeared as Florida Evans on Maude and she got a series of her own. That's a spinoff, plain and simple. I'm telling you just because someone who works for the show says something about it it doesn't mean that it is true 100% of the time.

Originally posted by Brian
Have you ever considered that even though he is the executive producer that he may be wrong? His assertion that
Good Times is not a spinoff because they changed the Florida character is a bunch of bull manure if you ask me. Esther Rolle appeared as Florida Evans on Maude and she got a series of her own. That's a spinoff, plain and simple. I'm telling you just because someone who works for the show says something about it it doesn't mean that it is true 100% of the time.


Exactly. It's a subjective term to begin with.

I even heard that there was a deleted line from the theme song that proved it was a spin-off. The original song went:


Temporary lay offs,

Good Times...

IT'S A MAUDIE SPIN-OFF,

Good Times...

Originally posted by GeeBee
I even heard that there was a deleted line from the theme song that proved it was a spin-off. The original song went:


Temporary lay offs,

Good Times...

IT'S A MAUDIE SPIN-OFF,

Good Times...


Where did you hear that?

I just can't let it end like this, the magazine may have said one thing but out of their mouths came other stuff. i wouldn't necessarily consider it a spinoff either. the father's name was changed, it was henry on 'maude', james on 'good times'. But there is also an episode that she referred to herself past profession as a maid, and a darn good one she said. norman lear was approached by mike evans and eric monte according to 'E!'. i myself would say that it is not actually a spinoff. they didn't even want to have a father for the show when they initially were doing it, well, norman lear didn't. but esther rolle fought for it, so it's obvious they initially would have made another story for her than her character on maude. it's still debatable though.

Originally posted by Sitcom Analyzer
Where did you hear that?


I thought everyone knew about that deleted line in the Good Times theme song. You see, in the 70's they were just starting to tackle controversial topics like abortion, racism, V.D., feminism, homosexuality, etc. However, the debate over whether Good Times was a spin-off or not was a little too controversial even for then. So, they decided to play it safe and remove that controversial line, les they offend any viewers.

Originally posted by GeeBee
I thought everyone knew about that deleted line in the Good Times theme song. You see, in the 70's they were just starting to tackle controversial topics like abortion, racism, V.D., feminism, homosexuality, etc. However, the debate over whether Good Times was a spin-off or not was a little too controversial even for then. So, they decided to play it safe and remove that controversial line, les they offend any viewers.



Did you watch Good Times during it's original run? If yes, were you over 17?

Originally posted by Sitcom Analyzer
Did you watch Good Times during it's original run? If yes, were you over 17?


Yes. No.

Wow, this one interesting thread. We have alot of people agreeing on a logical point while ONE person (or SO) agrees on a another point (which is somewhat shaky btw).
After reading this, I have to say that GOOD TIMES IS A SPIN-OFF NO MATTER HOW YOU PICTURE IT . . . . and that Solomon (aka sitcom ANALyzer) clearly doesn't have his facts straight nor the right information. Yes, he does have some good points on this subject BUT they don't outwiegh the ones that are LOGICAL.

SOLOMON, IT IS CLEAR AS A NOSE ON YOUR FACE: GOOD TIMES IS A SPIN-OFF AND THERE SHOULD BE NO FURTHER ARGUEMENTS ABOUT THAT.