"Now, I know it's not my place, but it's old folks nature to butt in" - Vernon Gaines
Mr. Vernon Gaines was a character who first appeared in the Season 2 episode of A Different World titled "Two Gentlemen of Hillman" (episode #4). The part of Mr. Gaines, who appeared in a total of 88 episodes of the series, was played on the series by veteran actor Lou Myers.
About Mr. Gaines[]
Vernon often referred to as Mr. Gaines, was the owner and manager of the Hillman College restaurant The Pit. A generally grumpy older man, Gaines has worked at The Pit at least since Claire Huxtable attended the college. Being a veteran himself, and generally acquainted with the older men, he became friends with Colonel Bradford Taylor and Coach Walter Oakes. He often interacted with Kim Reese as she was a longtime employee during her time at Hillman.
Characteristics[]
Mr. Gaines was often grumpy and claimed not to like children. He also didn't take lightly to his son who, at a time, had been staying in his home after possibly falling on hard times. Gaines is often unafraid of disagreements, and won't stand to talk to people he is uninterested in.
Quotes[]
"Well, I'll make it quick then. Tell you a story about my cousin Ida Mae. We grew up together. Ida Mae was always saying "I don't believe my husband loves me unless he hits me once a week." Well, one day her husband LOVED her to death. And we buried her last year."
Trivia[]
- Mr. Gaines, five nieces are Faith, Hope, Charity, and Henrietta are portrayed by R&B group En Vogue (they appear in the episodes "Faith, Hope and Charity (Part 1)" & "Faith, Hope and Charity (Part 2)")
- Gaines has appeared since season 2 of the show
- Gaines is the first Character to break the fourth wall. In the Season 4 episode "Monet Is the Root of All Evil" (#22), Vernon looks directly to camera and says, "You can play the theme song now."