Mabel King

Mabel Elizabeth King was an American film, stage, and television actress, and singer. She is best known for her role as Mabel Mama Thomas on the ABC sitcom Whats Happening from its premiere on August 5, 1976 until the end of its second season on May 11, 1978. Kings next mostremembered role is that of Evillene the Witch, a role she originated in the stage musical The Wiz and reprised in Sidney Lumets film adaptation .

King was born Mabel Elizabeth Washington in Charleston, South Carolina, the daughter of Rosalie Washington and Joseph Washington. She was raised in Harlem, New York where she eventually became a gospel and nightclub singer.

Source: Wikipedia