Salutes Faces of Black History Back To McDonald's Salutes Faces of Black History 2025
Ralph Carter

Television History
“Good Times” captivated American households with 50 million weekly viewers, cementing its place as a cultural milestone and launching Ralph Carter into television history. Carter brought Michael Evans to life across 133 unforgettable episodes, winning hearts nationwide from 1974 to 1979.
Broadway already knew Carter’s brilliance long before his television fame. This young prodigy stepped onto theater stages at just nine years old, soon claiming the coveted 1973 Drama Desk Award for Most Promising Performer and the 1974 Theater World Award for his stellar work in “Raisin.” His groundbreaking role as Michael Evans shattered television stereotypes, proudly presenting one of the first Black activist children on screen. Carter’s artistic journey continues to flourish today through his collection of 20 children’s books and dedicated community leadership, proving his enduring commitment to creative excellence and social change.
Early Broadway Stardom
Ralph Carter stepped into the dazzling world of Broadway in December 1970, launching what would become an extraordinary theatrical legacy. The nine-year-old powerhouse made his mark in the musical “The Me Nobody Knows”, bringing Benjamin’s character to vivid life.
Breaking into theater at age 9
Broadway’s bright lights welcomed Carter’s remarkable talent throughout the early 1970s. The young star graced “Tough To Get Help” at the Booth Theater, guided by legendary director Carl Reiner. His magnetic performances in “Dude” and “Via Galactica” soon established him as Broadway’s rising star.
Award-winning role in Raisin
Carter’s artistic brilliance reached new heights with his portrayal of Travis Younger in “Raisin”, beautifully adapting Lorraine Hansberry’s powerful drama “A Raisin in the Sun”. The show’s successful run from October 18, 1973, to December 7, 1975 earned Carter prestigious honors:
- Drama Desk Award for Most Promising Performer (1973)
- Theater World Award (1974)
- Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actor in a Musical (1974)
Notable Broadway productions and accolades
Carter’s theatrical genius shone exceptionally bright for his age. His talent collection grew impressively – by age twelve, every major American theater award adorned his shelf. The young artist’s versatile performance in “Dude” earned special recognition with the Drama Desk Award for Most Promising Performer.
“Raisin” stood as Carter’s crowning achievement, showcasing the creative genius of its talented team. Judd Woldin’s music, Robert Nemiroff and Charlotte Zaltzberg’s book, and Robert Brittan’s lyrics came together in perfect harmony.
Rising to Television Fame
Television visionary Norman Lear spotted something special in 1974. Carter’s Broadway brilliance convinced Lear to purchase his remaining theater contract, paving the way for the unforgettable role of Michael Evans in “Good Times”.
Landing the role of Michael Evans
Television history welcomed its first African-American two-parent family sitcom, with Carter proudly cast as the original character. Michael Evans, the youngest son of Florida and James Evans Sr., brought fresh intellectual energy and social awareness to America’s living rooms.
Impact on Good Times success
American families embraced the show’s authentic storytelling, drawing 50 million weekly viewers. “Good Times” earned its place in television history by:
- Showing real struggles with unemployment and housing
- Speaking truth about discrimination and crime
- Portraying lower-income family life honestly
- Creating new paths in television comedy
Working with Norman Lear
Carter and Lear’s creative partnership flourished naturally. Lear’s appreciation for theater-trained talent found perfect alignment with Carter’s stage experience. Together, they crafted episodes that sparked important conversations while keeping audiences entertained.
Michael Evans became more than just a character – he sparked dreams. Young viewers found inspiration to pursue law careers and discover African American history. Carter’s portrayal opened doors for authentic representation on television, creating ripples still felt today.
Musical Journey and Achievements
Mercury Records welcomed Ralph Carter’s musical talents with his debut album “Young and in Love” in 1976.
Release of Young and in Love album
Soul, funk, and disco melodies painted Carter’s artistic canvas, showcasing his musical range. Music legends joined forces on this project – bassist Bob Babbitt added his signature groove while powerhouse vocalists Patti Austin and Linda November brought their magic to the background. Ten carefully crafted tracks filled the album, with “Higher and Higher” and “Love Doesn’t Grow on Trees” standing out as fan favorites.
Chart success and performances
Music charts celebrated Carter’s fresh sound. His soulful rendition of “When You’re Young and in Love,” originally by Ruby & the Romantics in 1964, reached No. 37 on the Billboard R&B chart. Audiences also embraced “Extra, Extra (Read All About It),” which climbed to No. 59. Carter’s musical story sparkled with:
- Star-studded appearances on the legendary “Soul Train”
- Strong presence across dance and R&B markets
- Studio magic created at Mediasound and Sigma Sound Studios
Musical influences and style
Production wizards Reid Whitelaw and Norman Bergen crafted rich soundscapes that honored multiple musical traditions. The Irv Spice Strings & Orchestra wove classical elegance through modern rhythm sections. Carter’s 1985 single “Get it Right” added another chapter to his musical story, though it didn’t match his earlier chart success.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Ralph Carter’s artistic brilliance lights up stages and screens, yet his greatest role plays out behind the curtain. Today, as 3rd Vice-President of AUDELCO (Audience Development Committee), Carter guides excellence in African American theater throughout New York City.
Influence on young Black actors
AUDELCO thrives under Carter’s passionate leadership, opening doors for diverse voices in performing arts. His visionary work champions:
- Bold performances by Black actors and actresses
- Creative excellence of Black technicians and designers
- Fresh, powerful theatrical productions
- Rich traditions of African American theater
Contribution to representation in media
Michael Evans touched hearts and changed lives across America. One powerful moment stands out – a room full of African American lawyers rose to share how Carter’s character sparked their legal dreams. Young viewers discovered pride in their heritage, diving deep into African American history books.
Inspiring future generations
Dreams take flight through the Ralph Carter Scholarship at Louise W. Pilgrim Life Academy. This gift opens artistic pathways for talented students from underrepresented communities, painting tomorrow’s stages with diverse voices. The TV Land IMPACT Award celebrates this legacy, honoring Carter’s unique blend of entertainment and social awakening.
Brooklyn’s arts scene pulses with Carter’s creative energy as he crafts works like Grandma’s Hands for the National Black Theater Festival. His unwavering dedication to theater and representation continues shaping American cultural conversations.
Conclusion
Ralph Carter’s artistic brilliance sparkles across Broadway stages, television screens, and music charts. His remarkable talent earned every major theater award by age twelve, setting new standards for young performers. Michael Evans became more than a character – he touched 50 million hearts weekly, opening doors for authentic Black representation on television.
Musical rhythms added fresh colors to Carter’s artistic palette through “Young and in Love.” Yet his true masterpiece paints itself daily through his tireless work celebrating African American theater and nurturing young artistic dreams.
AUDELCO flourishes under Carter’s guidance while the Ralph Carter Scholarship program lights creative paths forward. His legacy echoes through courtrooms filled with lawyers who once watched a young Michael Evans speak truth to power. Artists and professionals across America carry forward his spirit of cultural pride and social awareness. Carter’s story reminds us how pure talent, matched with unwavering dedication to authentic representation, creates ripples of positive change through generations of American culture.
References
[1] – https://playbill.com/person/ralph-carter-vault-0000068842
[2] – https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-cast-staff/ralph-carter-84390
[3] – https://ourtimepress.com/qa-with-ralph-carter/
[4] – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ralph_Carter
[5] – https://www.broadwayworld.com/people/Ralph-Carter/
[6] – https://www.legit.ng/1400456-ralph-carter-bio-age-net-worth-children.html
[7] – https://digitalcollections.nypl.org/items/e708f2b0-14b3-0131-b29e-58d385a7b928
[10] – https://abc7ny.com/society/catching-up-with-ralph-carter-michael-from-good-times/5705158/
[12] – https://www.musicvf.com/Ralph+Carter.art
[13] – https://bestlifeonline.com/michael-good-times-ralph-carter-now-news/

QUICK FACTS

Thank you to the New York Tristate Owner and Operators Association for your continued support.