Good Times is an American television sitcom that aired on CBS from February 8, 1974, to August 1, 1979. It was created by Eric Monte and Mike Evans, and developed by Norman Lear. The series was the seventh most watched show on television for the 1975–76 television season, and the number two show for the following season.
The show’s theme song, “Good Times,” was performed by Ray Charles. The show’s main characters were the Evans family, living in a fictional Chicago housing project. The show revolved around Florida and James Evans (played by Esther Rolle and John Amos, respectively) and their three children: J.J. (Jimmie Walker), Thelma (Bern Nadette Stanis), and Michael (Ralph Carter). Many other characters were featured throughout the show’s run, including Carl Dixon (Alan Autry), Bookman (Ben Powers), Willie Harris (Johnny Brown), Willona Woods (Ja’net Dubois), Florida’s mother-in-law (Mabel King), and Penny Gordon Woods (Janet Jackson).
The most memorable character on the show was J.J.’s best friend, the lovable and ever-loyal Mad Dog. Mad Dog was portrayed by Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs, and he was always ready to help out his buddy J.J. Mad Dog was a street-smart young man who had been in trouble with the law, but he was always a loyal friend to the Evans family. He was known for his catchphrase “Dyn-o-mite!”
The Life of Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs
Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs was born in New York City on October 28, 1953. He began his acting career in the early 1970s, appearing in small roles in films such as Claudine (1974) and Cooley High (1975). He then landed the role of Mad Dog on Good Times, which was his first major role. He quickly became a fan favorite and one of the show’s most memorable characters.
After Good Times was cancelled in 1979, Hilton-Jacobs continued to work in film and television. He appeared in films such as The Fish That Saved Pittsburgh (1979), Fame (1980), and Airplane II: The Sequel (1982). He also appeared in television shows such as The Love Boat, Fantasy Island, and The A-Team.
In the 1990s, Hilton-Jacobs made guest appearances on shows such as Mad About You and Martin. He also appeared in films such as I’m Gonna Git You Sucka (1988), Posse (1993), and Don’t Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood (1996).
In the 2000s, he appeared in films such as The Brothers (2001), Get Rich or Die Tryin’ (2005), and The Cookout 2 (2011). He also appeared in television shows such as The Parkers and The Wayans Bros.
Hilton-Jacobs' Music Career
In addition to acting, Hilton-Jacobs has also pursued a career in music. In 1979, he released an album titled Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs. The album featured several R&B songs, including the single “Climbing Higher Mountains.” He also released a single titled “Livin’ in the Streets,” which was featured in the film Cooley High.
In the 1990s, Hilton-Jacobs released several singles as a solo artist. He also formed a band called The Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs Band, which released an album in 1992 titled Soul Searchin’. He continued to perform live with the band until 1998.
Hilton-Jacobs' Personal Life
Hilton-Jacobs has been married twice. His first marriage was to actress Sharon Monroe in 1975. They had two children together before divorcing in 1990. He then married actress Tawny Little in 1992. They have one daughter together and are still married.