At 78 years old, Jimmie Walker is finally ready to share the truth about his complex relationship with Esther Rolle, his co-star on the iconic sitcom *Good Times*.

Born James Carter Walker Jr. on June 25, 1947, in the Bronx, New York, Walker’s upbringing shaped his comedic voice and authenticity.

Raised in the challenging environment of New York City’s South Bronx during the 1950s and 60s, Walker faced economic hardships that instilled resilience and a strong work ethic.

His mother, Lina, worked as a head nurse, while his father was largely absent, leaving a profound impact on his formative years.

Walker’s education came from both the classroom and the streets, where he developed a keen interest in electronics.

After studying at Theodore Roosevelt High School, he pursued technical training at the RCA Technical Institute, which would later influence his performances.

Before entering show business, he worked as a radio engineer, showcasing his curiosity about how things worked—an attribute that would enhance his comedic delivery.

In the early 1970s, Walker began his stand-up comedy career, quickly becoming a favorite in New York’s black comedy circuit.

His energetic and observational style resonated with audiences, leading to appearances on *The Tonight Show* and *Laugh-In*.

It wasn’t long before he landed the role that would define his career: J.J. Evans on CBS’s *Good Times*.

Airing from 1974 to 1979, the show focused on a black working-class family living in Chicago’s housing projects, a groundbreaking portrayal for its time.

Walker’s character, a fast-talking aspiring artist, became a cultural phenomenon, with his catchphrase “Dy-no-mite!” echoing across America.

Despite his success, Walker’s time on *Good Times* was fraught with tension, particularly with co-stars Esther Rolle and John Amos.

Rolle and Amos believed the show shifted from its original intent of portraying serious social issues to a more comedic caricature, undermining their message.

While Walker valued the power of comedy, these disagreements created a sometimes tense atmosphere on set.

After *Good Times* ended, Walker faced the challenge of typecasting, common for actors closely associated with iconic roles.

However, he continued to thrive in stand-up comedy throughout the 1980s and 1990s, touring nationally and developing a loyal fan base.

Walker also made guest appearances on various television shows, bringing a nostalgic charm to his performances.

In addition to his comedic work, he became a prominent voice in political and cultural discussions, often identifying as a conservative.

His independent thinking sometimes put him at odds with other entertainers, but he remained unapologetic in his views.

In 2012, he published his memoir, *Dy-no-mite: Good Times, Bad Times, Our Times*, reflecting on his life, career, and the complexities of navigating show business.

Walker’s career continued to evolve, as he made memorable appearances in films and television shows, including a cameo in the cult comedy *Big Money Rustlas*.

He embraced unconventional roles, illustrating his willingness to experiment with eccentric projects that showcased his enduring appeal.

In 2011, he appeared in the sci-fi film *Super Shark*, further cementing his status as a versatile entertainer.

On May 4, 2023, Walker surprised fans with a guest appearance on the long-running soap opera *The Bold and the Beautiful*, showcasing his versatility.

Now, at 78, Walker is reflecting on his past and the relationships that shaped him, particularly with Esther Rolle.

For decades, rumors swirled about a tense off-screen dynamic between the two stars, despite their undeniable on-screen chemistry.

Rolle, a principled and classically trained actress, fought for authentic storytelling on *Good Times*, seeing it as a milestone for African-American representation.

Walker, on the other hand, approached the show from a comedic angle, drawing laughs with his exaggerated humor and catchphrase.

This rising popularity created friction, as Rolle viewed his antics as a distraction from the show’s deeper message.

For years, Walker remained silent about their strained relationship, offering neutral responses when asked about Rolle.

However, now in his late 70s, he has begun to share insights that reveal a deeper understanding and newfound respect for her integrity.

“Esther was tough because she cared,” Walker admitted.

“She believed in the mission of the show. I didn’t always see it that way back then.”

Reflecting on their disagreements, he acknowledged they stemmed from fundamentally different visions for the show.

Walker revealed that he didn’t grasp the weight of Rolle’s goals at the time, recognizing her commitment to authenticity.

“She came from the stage, from drama and social change,” he said.

“I came from the clubs, from punchlines and comedy.”

Despite their differences, Walker credits Rolle for keeping the show grounded in authenticity and for demanding dignity in the portrayal of a black family.

He expressed regret that they never reconciled during Rolle’s lifetime, as she passed away in 1998.

“If I could talk to her now,” Walker said, “I’d tell her thank you for standing up for what she believed in.”

Walker’s reflections provide fans with a deeper understanding of the dynamics on *Good Times*, highlighting the complexities of fame and collaboration.

In telling the truth about Esther Rolle, he honors the woman who helped shape one of television’s most important shows, revealing the sacrifices made for authenticity and representation.

As he reflects on his legacy, Walker showcases a mature perspective that recognizes the importance of both humor and integrity in storytelling.