Jo Marie Payton

Biography

Jo Marie Payton is a talented American actress and singer, best known for her iconic portrayal of Harriette Baines-Winslow, the beloved matriarch of the Winslow family on the hit sitcom Family Matters, which aired on ABC and CBS from 1989 to 1998. She originally brought this character to life in the series Perfect Strangers, the show's predecessor. In addition to her memorable role on Family Matters, Payton lent her voice to Suga Mama Proud, the grandmother of Penny Proud, in the acclaimed animated series The Proud Family, which aired on the Disney Channel from 2001 to 2005. She reprised this role in the upcoming Disney+ revival, The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder, showcasing her enduring talent and popularity. In 2005, her work on The Proud Family earned her a nomination for an NAACP Image Award. Payton also made a mark on television with a recurring role as the personal assistant to Ben Doucette, portrayed by Gregory Hines, in the second season of Will & Grace, which aired from 1999 to 2000. With a career spanning decades, Jo Marie Payton continues to be a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, captivating audiences with her performances.