"Sanford and Son," the beloved sitcom that graced our screens from 1972 to 1977, left
an indelible mark on television history.
The show introduced us to a cast of unforgettable characters, and their comedic genius brought
laughter and joy into our homes.
While some cast members have since passed away, there are still surviving members who
continue to make their mark in the world of entertainment.
In this video, we delve into the lives and endeavors of the last surviving cast members
of "Sanford and Son," sharing glimpses of their post-show journeys and exploring their
chosen paths.
Join us as we catch up with these talented individuals and discover what they have been
up to since their days on the iconic sitcom.
As we celebrate the enduring legacy of "Sanford and Son," we remember the cast members who
have left us but whose contributions to the show will forever be remembered.
These talented individuals brought their characters to life, leaving an indelible mark on television
history.
They include:
Redd Foxx
Born John Elroy Sanford, Redd Foxx was the heart and soul of "Sanford and Son."
He played the role of Fred G. Sanford, a widower and junk dealer living in the Watts neighborhood
of Los Angeles.
Foxx's portrayal of the sarcastic, streetwise, and irascible Fred Sanford was nothing short
of iconic.
His comedic timing, coupled with his ability to infuse depth into his character, made Fred
Sanford a household name.
In his legendary role as Fred Sanford, Foxx displayed a colorful mix of prejudice and
abrasiveness, a combination that regularly drove him into complex schemes to quickly
collect money and pay off his various obligations.
Before the start of the series, his loving wife Elizabeth passed away tragically in the
early 1950s.
Throughout the humorous flow of the show, a recurring joke developed in which Fred would
dramatically act out a heart attack while melodiously exclaiming, "Behold, the glorious
moment arrives, Elizabeth!
I'll see you again soon, my love.
Fred raised his son Lamont alone and deeply missed Elizabeth.
Foxx passed away in 1991, but his legacy lives on through his unforgettable character.
His influence on comedy and his groundbreaking role in "Sanford and Son" continues to be
celebrated today.
Marlene Clark
Marlene Clark, known for her role as Janet Lawson in the fifth season of "Sanford and
Son," was a remarkable actress who brought a unique dynamic to the show.
As a divorcee dating Lamont, her character introduced themes of love and family to the
series.
Clark's nuanced and heartfelt portrayal of Janet added a layer of emotional depth to
the otherwise humor-centric show.
Clark passed away at her home in Los Angeles on May 18, 2023, at the age of 85.
However, her time on "Sanford and Son" remains a highlight of her career, and she is fondly
remembered by fans of the show.
Her co-star, Demond Wilson, remembered her on Twitter, writing, "RIP beautiful actress
Marlene Clark...
It was a delight to work with you."
Clark's rich body of work in film and television continues to inspire and entertain audiences,
ensuring her legacy lives on.
LaWanda Page
LaWanda Page brought the unforgettable character of Aunt Esther to life.
Aunt Esther was the Bible-toting sister of Fred's late wife, Elizabeth, and her staunch
religiosity and strong-willed personality made her a force to be reckoned with.
Page's portrayal of Aunt Esther was marked by her comedic genius and her ability to deliver
memorable one-liners and fiery exchanges with Redd Foxx's character, Fred Sanford.
Aunt Esther's larger-than-life personality and her humorous interactions with Fred became
one of the most memorable aspects of "Sanford and Son."
Despite their constant bickering and insults, there was an underlying affection between
the two characters that added depth to their relationship.
Page's comedic timing and her ability to balance Aunt Esther's strict religious beliefs with
comedic moments made her a fan favorite.
Her character's catchphrase, "Watch it, sucka!"
became synonymous with Aunt Esther and is still quoted by fans of the show today.
Her comedic talent and ability to bring joy to audiences through her portrayal of Aunt
Esther continue to resonate, even after her passing in 2002.
Whitman Mayo
Whitman Mayo brilliantly portrayed Grady Wilson on "Sanford and Son."
Grady was Fred's good-natured and simple-minded best friend, always ready to lend a helping
hand or join Fred in his misadventures.
Mayo's portrayal of Grady added a unique flavor to the show's ensemble cast, combining humor,
charm, and a touch of naivety.
Grady Wilson was known for his involvement in Fred's get-rich-quick schemes, often finding
himself caught up in hilarious situations.
Despite his gullibility, Grady's unwavering loyalty to Fred and their friendship endeared
him to audiences.
Mayo's performance as Grady Wilson was both hilarious and endearing, with his character's
light-hearted nature providing a balance to Fred's cantankerousness.
Although Whitman Mayo passed away in 2001, his character Grady Wilson lives on through
the enduring popularity of "Sanford and Son."
Reruns of the show continue to entertain audiences, allowing Mayo's portrayal of Grady to bring
laughter and smile to new generations of viewers.
His contribution to the show's success is undeniable, and his character remains a beloved
fan favorite.
The passing of these talented actors is a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of
life.
However, their performances on "Sanford and Son" have immortalized them in the annals
of television history.
They brought joy and laughter to millions of viewers, and their contributions to the
show will always be remembered and cherished.
Their legacies live on, not just in the reruns of the show, but in the hearts of those who
loved them.
While we remember and honor the cast members of "Sanford and Son" who have passed away,
we also celebrate the enduring presence of those who are still with us today.
These remarkable individuals continue to contribute to the world of entertainment and inspire
audiences with their talent and dedication.
Demond Wilson
Demond Wilson, known for his portrayal of Lamont Sanford, the patient and conscientious
son of Fred Sanford, has remained an enduring presence in the entertainment industry.
Since his time on "Sanford and Son," Wilson has continued to pursue his passion for acting
and engage in various endeavors that reflect his compassionate nature and commitment to
making a positive impact.
While Wilson has chosen to keep a relatively low profile in recent years, his contributions
to society extend far beyond the realm of entertainment.
Notably, he founded the Restoration House of America, a non-profit organization that
provides housing and support services for people experiencing homelessness and those
in need.
Wilson's dedication to philanthropy mirrors the integrity and kindness that defined his
character on the show, and his commitment to helping others has become a cornerstone
of his life.
Beyond his philanthropic work, Wilson's impact on the entertainment industry remains significant.
His portrayal of Lamont Sanford showcased his talent as an actor and captured the hearts
of fans around the world.
Lamont's unwavering loyalty, compassion, and ability to navigate the humorous situations
created by his father made him a relatable and beloved character.
Demond Wilson's contributions to society and his enduring presence in the entertainment
industry serve as a testament to his compassionate nature, philanthropic endeavors, and his ability
to create a beloved character that left a lasting impression.
While a lower public profile may have marked his recent years, his legacy as Lamont Sanford
and his commitment to making a difference continues to inspire and resonate with fans
around the world.
Hal Williams
Hal Williams, renowned for his portrayal of Officer "Smitty" Smith on "Sanford and Son,"
has maintained an active presence in the entertainment industry since his time on the iconic sitcom.
After leaving his hometown of Columbus, Ohio, to pursue an acting career in Hollywood, Williams
embarked on a journey that led to success in various television series and films.
Williams's versatility as an actor is evident in his notable appearances in shows such as
"227," where he portrayed Lester Jenkins, and "The Waltons," where he played Harley
Foster.
His ability to seamlessly transition between comedic and dramatic roles showcases his talent
and range as an actor.
Williams's contributions to beloved shows such as "The Jeffersons" further cement his
status as a seasoned performer who has left an indelible mark on television.
Not limited to live-action roles, Williams has also made significant contributions to
the world of animation.
He lent his distinctive voice to the character of Chief in Disney's "The Little Mermaid II:
Return to the Sea," captivating audiences with his talent for bringing animated characters
to life.
With an impressive body of work spanning decades, Hal Williams continues to captivate audiences
with his undeniable talent and charismatic on-screen presence.
His contributions to the rich tapestry of television and film have made him a respected
figure in the industry.
Audiences appreciate his ability to bring depth and authenticity to every character
he portrays.
Lynn Hamilton
Lynn Hamilton, acclaimed for her portrayal of Donna Harris, a recurring character on
"Sanford and Son," has enjoyed a multifaceted career that extends beyond the realm of acting.
Following her time on the show, Hamilton continued to make her mark in the entertainment industry,
appearing in numerous television series that showcased her versatility as an actress.
Hamilton's talent and versatility led to memorable roles in shows such as "The Jeffersons," "The
Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," and the long-running soap opera "Days of Our Lives."
Her ability to bring depth and authenticity to her characters captivated audiences and
further solidified her reputation as a talented performer.
However, Hamilton's contributions extend beyond her acting career.
She has demonstrated a deep commitment to humanitarian work and has actively collaborated
with organizations dedicated to supporting vulnerable communities.
Her dedication to philanthropy reflects her compassionate nature and mirrors the values
of empathy and understanding that were at the heart of her character, Donna Harris,
on "Sanford and Son."
Lynn Hamilton's multifaceted career, marked by her impressive acting roles and her commitment
to humanitarian work, showcases her talent, compassion, and the depth of her character.
Her contributions to the entertainment industry and her philanthropic endeavors continue to
inspire and leave a lasting impression.
As we bid farewell to the beloved sitcom "Sanford and Son," we cherish the laughter and joy
these cast members brought into our lives.
Their performances on the show will always be remembered and cherished, and their legacies
live on, not just in reruns, but in the hearts of those who loved them.
There you have it.
It's now time to hear from you.
We'd love to hear about your ultimate pick for the best season and episode of the classic
sitcom, Sanford and Son.