Ralph Carter, born on May 30, 1961, in New York City, is an American actor and singer best known for his portrayal of Michael Evans on the CBS sitcom “Good Times” (1974–1979). As of December 2024, he is 63 years old and has an estimated net worth of $1 million.
How Did Ralph Carter Begin His Career in Entertainment?
Carter’s foray into the entertainment industry commenced at the tender age of nine when he debuted on Broadway in the musical “The Me Nobody Knows.” His early stage presence was further solidified with roles in productions such as “Tough To Get Help,” “Dude,” and “Via Galactica.” However, it was his performance as Travis Younger in the musical “Raisin”—an adaptation of Lorraine Hansberry’s “A Raisin in the Sun”—that garnered him significant acclaim. This role earned him the 1973 Drama Desk Award for Most Promising Performer, the 1974 Theatre World Award, and a nomination for the 1974 Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical.
What Role Cemented Ralph Carter’s Status on Television?
In 1974, Carter transitioned to television with his role as Michael Evans, the youngest child of Florida and James Evans Sr., on the CBS sitcom “Good Times.” The series, developed by Norman Lear, was a spin-off of “Maude” and provided a groundbreaking portrayal of an African-American family navigating life’s challenges in a Chicago housing project. Carter’s character, Michael, was affectionately dubbed the “militant midget” for his outspoken views on civil rights and social justice, making him a memorable figure in the show’s narrative.
Did Ralph Carter Pursue a Music Career?
Parallel to his acting endeavors, Carter explored a career in music. In 1975, he released an album titled “Young and in Love,” which featured a cover of Ruby & the Romantics’ 1964 hit “When You’re Young and in Love.” He performed this track on the musical variety television show “Soul Train.” The song, along with another track, “Extra, Extra (Read All About It),” achieved modest success, charting at No. 37 and No. 59, respectively, on the U.S. Billboard R&B chart. In 1985, Carter released a single titled “Get it Right,” though it did not achieve significant commercial success.
What Is Known About Ralph Carter’s Personal Life?
Carter’s personal life includes two marriages. He first married Lisa Parks in February 1987, whom he met at a Christmas party in 1982. The couple had two sons: Michael, born on March 10, 1988, and James, born on September 8, 1989. Their marriage ended in divorce in 1992. Subsequently, Carter married River York on December 20, 1994, shortly after their engagement on December 2 of the same year. They have three children: son Phoenix, born on September 15, 1995; daughter Jessica, born on April 23, 1997; and daughter Vivica, born on July 5, 1999.
Where Is Ralph Carter Now?
After stepping away from the limelight, Carter returned to theater. In 2005, he appeared in the Classical Theatre of Harlem’s production of “Ain’t Supposed to Die a Natural Death.” He also serves as the vice president of the Audience Development Committee (AUDELCO), an organization dedicated to recognizing and honoring the contributions of African Americans in theater. Carter resides in New York City with his family and maintains a low public profile, with no active presence on social media platforms.