10 Facts About Lionel Jefferson

Lionel Jefferson is a supporting character from the hit sitcoms All in the Family and The Jeffersons.

Lionel Jefferson is the son of George and Louise Jefferson.

Lionel Jefferson was originally portrayed by D'Urville Martin for two unaired pilots, before the role was recast with Mike Evans.

Lionel Jefferson was later played by Damon Evans, though Mike Evans eventually returned to the role before the end of the series.

Lionel Jefferson was born in New York City on October 18,1953.

Lionel Jefferson's character is significant for being one of the first TV portrayals of a young, opinionated black man.

Lionel Jefferson is introduced in the first episode.

Lionel Jefferson is generally amused, rather than angered or irritated, by Archie's frequent displays of ignorance and bigotry, often seeing Archie's comments as well-meaning, albeit ignorant, rather than outright malicious.

Lionel Jefferson finally tells Archie off, but lets him know that they can remain friends.

Lionel Jefferson sometimes loses patience with Michael, feeling that Michael relates to him as a representative of the black community rather than as an individual.