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Esther Rolle (November 8, 1920 – November 17, 1998) was an American actress of stage and television. She was perhaps best known for her portrayal of Florida Evans in two 1970s television sitcoms, Maude and Good Times. Esther Rolle was born in Pompano Beach, Florida to Jonathan and Elizabeth Rolle, Bahamian immigrants. Esther was the tenth child in a family that produced a total of 18 children. After graduation from Blanche Ely High school, Rolle moved to New York City and attended Hunter College, Spelman College and the New School for Social Research. She was also a member of Zeta Phi Beta sorority. For many years, Rolle worked in a traditional "day job" in New York City`s garment district.

Rolle is perhaps best known for her television role as Florida Evans, the character she played on two 1970s sitcoms: Maude and its spin-off, Good Times. The character was initially introduced as Maude Findlay`s housekeeper on Maude, and was spun off in the show`s second season into Good Times, a show about Florida`s family. Rolle was nominated in 1975 for the Best Actress in a Musical/Comedy Golden Globe Award for her role in Good Times. Rolle fought for more relevant themes and scripts, and was unhappy when the success of Jimmie Walker`s character J.J. took the show in what she thought was a frivolous direction. As a result, actor John Amos, who played the role of the father, James Evans, ultimately left the show. Later on, in a stand-off with Good Times producer Norman Lear, Rolle also quit when her contract concluded. Although the series continued without her for a time, she returned for the show`s final season.

Rolle died November 17, 1998 in Culver City, California from diabetes complications.