Lenny Kravitz Opens Up About Finding Comfort in Watching His Mother’s TV Legacy

Lenny Kravitz, the legendary musician and actor, recently shared heartfelt sentiments about his late mother, Roxie Roker, in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE. Roker, best known for her role as Helen Willis on the classic sitcom The Jeffersons, passed away in 1995 from breast cancer. Kravitz revealed that watching old episodes of the show brings him solace and keeps his mother’s memory alive.

In the interview, Kravitz expressed how fortunate he is that Roker’s television career allows him to reconnect with her presence. He confessed, ‘When I need to, I’ll turn on The Jeffersons and watch her, and it does so much for me.’ Roker portrayed Helen Willis on the show for 11 seasons from 1975 to 1985. Kravitz emphasized how deeply he feels his mother’s spiritual presence even though they are physically separated.

Roker’s impact on Kravitz’s life extends beyond her on-screen fame. He describes her as the most exceptional human being he has ever known, highlighting her nonjudgmental nature and empathetic qualities. Although The Jeffersons was a significant part of her legacy, Kravitz remembers her as his heart and a gifted actress, mother, and empath who effortlessly balanced all three roles.

Lenny Kravitz’s relationship with his mother remained strong throughout his life, unlike his turbulent relationship with his father, Sly Kravitz, who was also a TV producer. While his father passed away in 2005, Kravitz cherishes the memories and lessons he learned from his mother, Roxie Roker.

Reflecting on Roker’s character, Kravitz shared a touching moment from her funeral where a fellow actor remarked, ‘If Roxie met the devil himself, she’d say to him, “What a lovely red suit.”‘

Lenny Kravitz thinks of his mother every day and recognizes the profound impact she has had on his life. He credits his success to her and all those who came before him.