At 71, Bern Nadette Stanis Confesses the Dark Truth About Ben Powers

Ben Powers, best known for his role as Keith Anderson, Thelma Evans’ husband on *Good Times*, had a Hollywood career filled with highs and lows.

Born Alton Adalbert Powers on July 5, 1950, in Brooklyn, New York, Powers grew up in a tough environment that shaped his authentic on-screen persona. His journey to stardom was marked by resilience, but his career was often overshadowed by industry challenges and personal struggles.

Powers began his acting career in the 1970s, performing on stage and doing stand-up comedy. He gained early recognition at the Trinity Repertory Theater in Rhode Island and later entertained at the Playboy Club in Las Vegas. His talent caught the attention of Hollywood agents, leading to his breakthrough role on *Good Times* during its final season.

Cast as Keith Anderson, a professional football player who marries Thelma, Powers brought a fresh dynamic to the show. However, the writers threw a curveball by having his character suffer a leg injury immediately after the wedding, forcing Keith into unemployment—a storyline criticized for its portrayal of black families.

Despite the challenges, Powers delivered a strong performance, earning praise from co-stars like Bern Nadette Stanis, who admired his professionalism and kind nature. After *Good Times*, Powers appeared in guest roles on popular shows like *The Greatest American Hero*, *Laverne & Shirley*, and *Gimme a Break*.

He also acted in films such as *Cheech and Chong’s Next Movie* and *The Man Who Loved Women*. While his versatility was evident, Powers often found himself typecast, a common struggle for black actors in Hollywood during the 1980s and 1990s.

One of Powers’ most significant career setbacks occurred during his role on *Mickey Spillane’s Mike Hammer*, a CBS detective drama. Powers played Moochie, a charming character with ties to New York’s underworld.

The show gained traction until its lead actor, Stacy Keach, was arrested for drug smuggling, leading to its abrupt cancellation. Powers handled the disappointment with grace, quietly moving on to pursue other opportunities.

Beyond his professional life, Powers found stability in his personal life. He married Julia Harper and had four children, maintaining a private family life away from the Hollywood spotlight. However, in the 2000s, Powers faced serious health challenges, including liver cancer. Despite his illness, he remained dignified and kept his struggles private.

Powers passed away on April 6, 2015, at the age of 64. His legacy as a talented actor and a kind-hearted professional lives on. Bern Nadette Stanis and other *Good Times* co-stars remembered him fondly, highlighting his contributions to the show and his impact on television. Powers represented the strength and resilience of black actors in an industry that often overlooked their talent. Though he never received the recognition he deserved during his lifetime, his work continues to inspire.