Bern Nadette Stanis is an American actress and author with a net worth of $6 million. She has accumulated wealth from residuals of her iconic role, earnings from TV and film appearances, book royalties, endorsement deals, business ventures, and real estate investments. Some of the ways she has remained active in the entertainment scene are through engaging with fans at events and comic conventions and making appearances on podcasts.
Bern Nadette Stanis Career Breakthrough
Bern Nadette Stanis’ big break came in 1974 when she was cast as Thelma Evans, the witty and intelligent daughter in the hit CBS sitcom Good Times. The show tackled social issues such as poverty, racism, and unemployment, making it culturally significant. She played Thelma for all six seasons from 1974 to 1979. Her character was known for her humor, charm, and signature catchphrase, Dyn-o-mite! She appeared in guest roles on shows like The Love Boat, What’s Happening Now!!, The Cosby Show, The Parent ‘Hood, Girlfriends, and Black Jesus. In recent years, she starred as Nee Nee Duncan in the BET+ series The Family Business and its spinoff, New Orleans.
Stanis is an accomplished author of four books, Situations 101: Relationships, The Good, The Bad & The Ugly, The Last Night: A Caregiver’s Journey Through Transition & Beyond, For Men Only, and Situations 101: Finances. The books are about her life experiences, relationships, love, and her encounter while caring for her mother. She has used her platform and public presence to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease after her mother’s diagnosis and passing in 2011.
Bern Nadette Stanis is a multi-talented entertainer and author whose impact extends beyond Good Times. With a net worth of $3 million, she has built a lasting legacy through acting, writing, and public speaking. Her dedication to family, health advocacy, and empowering others makes her a respected figure in society. While she may not be among Hollywood’s wealthiest stars, her long-standing career and diverse income streams have secured her a comfortable lifestyle.
Bern Nadette Stanis Family Background
Bernadette Stanislaus was born on December 22, 1953, in Brownsville, Brooklyn. She attended the High School of Performing Arts in New York and later studied drama at Juilliard School, one of the most prestigious performing arts conservatories. Bern Nadette Stanis has been married four times, and her first marriage was in 1974 to her high school sweetheart Thomas Fauntleroy, till 1978. She had her first daughter, Dior Ravel, after her marriage to Terrence Redd in 1981, for 31 years. She has been married to Kevin Fontana for 31 years and has a daughter, Brittany Rose. Bern lives in Atlanta, Georgia, with her children and family.
Stanis serves as a speaker and advocate, educating communities on caregiving and health, such as through forums like UnitedHealthcare’s Mix, Mingle & Master. She also founded the Remembering the Good Times Foundation to honor her mother and create awareness for Alzheimer’s. As of 2025, Bern Nadette Stanis has an estimated net worth of $6 million. Her wealth comes from her acting career, book sales, public appearances, and other business ventures.
