Classic TV Theme: Good Times

A spin-off of a spin-off, 'Good Times' (1974) came from 'Maude' which came from 'All In the Family'. Esther Rolle and John Amos played the parents of three children living in a Chicago public housing project, a set-up reminiscent of 'Raisin in the Sun'. It started off with a strong political edge; that was tempered over time but remained part of the mix. The six-year run didn't always go smoothly; the two leads didn't care for the growing emphasis on J.J. (Jimmy Walker) whom they considered a negative image. Amos was fired after season three and Rolle quit after season four (she also had issues with her Catholic character marrying an atheist). With the show in a slump during its fifth season, Rolle returned for season six. But it fell even further to #91 and that was that. Guest stars included Lou Gossett Jr, Debbie Allen, and Jay Leno. The theme song is by Dave Grusin with lyrics by Alan and Marilyn Bergman. 00:00 Season one opening titles. 00:49 Season five opening titles. 01:35 Season six opening titles. 02:21 Season one end credits.