Meet 'Room 222' Cast Members Five Decades After the Comedy-Drama Series Ended

Mar 11, 2021

04:48 A.M.

"Room 222" is largely considered one of the blueprints of the popular television sitcoms we see today, and it made the cast household names. But where did their lives lead after the series ended?

The show was groundbreaking as it was one of the first that effectively blended comedy with teenage drama but also tackled issues like racism and politics.

"Room 222" aired for five seasons from 1969 until 1974, and it celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2019. But what happened to the cast since then? Let's have a look.

Image Source: Youtube

LLOYD HAYNES AS PETE DIXON

Lloyd Haynes portrayed the black history teacher in an integrated school in “Room 222." Unfortunately, he passed away in 1987 at his home in Coronado at 52 years old.

At the time, he had been suffering from lung cancer and passed due to complications related to the illness.

DYNASTY - "Enter Alexis" - Airdate November 4, 1981. | Getty Images / Global Images Ukraine

DENISE NICHOLAS AS LIZ MCINTYRE

Denise Nicholas worked as an actress and writer. She had roles in "Let's Do It Again," "In the Heat of the Night," and "Room 222."

The actress had been previously married to Jim Hill, Bill Withers, and Gilbert Moses. She is also a founding member of The Free Southern Theater.

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons

MICHAEL CONSTANTINE AS SEYMOUR KAUFMAN

The Award-winning Greek-American actor Michael Constantine played principal "Seymour Kaufman" in the series. The role bagged him the 1970 Emmy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

He went on to become a renowned movie and television actor. He acted in "The Untouchables," The Hustler," and Woody Allen's play, "Don't Drink the Water," and recently the "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" films.

Actor Michael Constantine attends the "My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2" New York premiere at AMC Loews Lincoln Square 13 theater | Getty Images / Global Images Ukraine

KAREN VALENTINE AS ALICE JOHNSON

Karen Valentine acted in the acclaimed series as student-teacher Alice Johnson. The role earned her an Emmy award, and she continued to star in countless productions.

She was a regular panelist on the popular game show "The Hollywood Squares" and guest-hosted for Johnny Carson on "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson."

She also has an extensive stage career which includes performances in Broadway and national tour productions of "Romantic Comedy" and a Los Angeles production of "Steel Magnolias."

Karen Valentine attends the Chiller Theatre Expo at Sheraton Parsippany Hotel | Getty Images / Global Images Ukraine

HESHIMU CUMBUKA

There is very little known about Heshimu Cumbuka, who played Jason Allen in "Room 222." He was born in Arlington Banks.

The actor also had roles in "Sunnyside" and "They Call Me Bruce." Unfortunately, there has been no news regarding the actor beyond those three credits.

HESHIMU ROOM 222 - Pilot: "Richie's Story" | Getty Images / Global Images Ukraine

DAVID JOLLIFFE AS BERNIE

After his role in the iconic '70s TV sitcom "Room 222," David Jolliffe went on to play a variety of roles. In the 1980s, he was one of the more successful commercial performers and appeared in over 100 commercials.

While Joliffe serves as the Los Angeles Local Vice President of SAG-AFTRA, he is also a board member of the company on a local and national level.

Actor David Jolliffe attends the Membership First 2010 Election Fundraiser at a private residence | Getty Images / Global Images Ukraine

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JUDY STRANGIS AS HELEN LOOMIS

Judy Strangis is both an actress and writer. She is well known for her role in "Electra Woman and Dyna Girl." She also acted in "CBS Schoolbreak Special" and "The Spike Jones Show." On November 28, 1987, she married Jayson Sher.

Actress Judy Strangis attends the PaleyFest: Rewind 2010 Presents "Room 222: A Look Back at Walt Whitman High" | Getty Images / Global Images Ukraine

FIFTY YEARS AFTER 'ROOM 222'

With 50 years of history, Karen Valentine, who played Alice recalls what the show had meant for her during an interview.

"Room 222 just started so many things for me,” says Karen. “It was the most amazing way to enter the business. Top-notch all the way and an amazing combination of people. It was a show where the stars just aligned."