Remembering the Stars: A Tribute to the Deceased Cast of ‘Sanford and Son’
Sanford and Son stands as a cornerstone of American television, a groundbreaking sitcom that brought the brilliant comedic talents of Redd Foxx to millions of homes and forever changed the landscape of Black representation on TV. The series, which aired from 1972 to 1977, was a cultural phenomenon, celebrated for its sharp wit, fearless humor, and a dynamic that felt both deeply personal and universally relatable. The characters, from the curmudgeonly junk dealer Fred Sanford to his long-suffering son Lamont, became household names. While the show’s legacy lives on in syndication, many of the beloved actors and actresses who brought these characters to life have since passed away. This article is a tribute to those who are no longer with us, honoring their contributions to a show that continues to hold a special place in the hearts of fans everywhere.
Redd Foxx (Fred G. Sanford)
No tribute to the Sanford and Son cast can begin without honoring the man at the center of it all: Redd Foxx. As Fred G. Sanford, he created one of the most iconic characters in television history. Fred’s irascible personality, his penchant for faking heart attacks (“I’m coming, Elizabeth!”), and his endless schemes to avoid work made him an unforgettable figure. Foxx, a veteran stand-up comedian, brought a raw, improvisational energy to the role that made his performance feel both authentic and hilarious. His delivery was a masterclass in comedic timing, and his chemistry with his co-star, Demond Wilson, was the foundation of the show’s success.
Redd Foxx’s life was as complex as his on-screen persona. Despite his immense talent, he struggled with financial issues throughout his career. His death on October 11, 1991, was a tragic and shocking event. While rehearsing for his new show, The Royal Family, Foxx suffered a heart attack, ironically in a manner similar to his most famous gag. His passing was a profound loss to the world of comedy, but his legacy as Fred Sanford and as a trailblazing Black comedian endures.
LaWanda Page (Aunt Esther)
If Fred Sanford was the show’s star, then Aunt Esther was its comedic foil. Portrayed by the inimitable LaWanda Page, Aunt Esther was Fred’s sister-in-law and his ultimate nemesis. Their endless squabbles were a source of some of the show’s most memorable moments. Fred’s constant insults—calling her everything from a “fish-eyed fool” to a “big-mouthed hippo”—were always met with Esther’s fierce comebacks and the threat of her ever-present purse.
LaWanda Page was a stand-up comedian and a longtime friend of Redd Foxx, who personally recommended her for the role. She was a powerhouse of a performer, and her character’s deep faith and righteous anger provided a perfect contrast to Fred’s cynicism. Page’s physical comedy and expressive face were essential to Aunt Esther’s character, and she became a beloved part of the cast. LaWanda Page passed away on September 14, 2002, at the age of 81. Her portrayal of Aunt Esther remains a masterclass in comedic antagonism and a testament to her unique talent.
Grady Wilson (Whitman Mayo)
Whitman Mayo brought an endearing and simple charm to the role of Grady Wilson, Fred Sanford’s best friend. Grady was a kind-hearted and often befuddled character, known for his signature catchphrase, “Good God!” He was a gentle soul who often found himself caught in the middle of Fred’s wild schemes, and his innocence served as a perfect contrast to Fred’s cynical nature.
The character of Grady was so popular that he even got his own short-lived spin-off series, Grady, which aired in 1975. Mayo’s portrayal was a testament to his ability to bring warmth and humanity to a character that could have easily been a one-dimensional sidekick. Whitman Mayo passed away on May 22, 2001, at the age of 81. His work as Grady Wilson left an indelible mark on the show and its fans, proving that a character’s kindness can be just as memorable as their comedic fire.
Demond Wilson (Lamont Sanford)
While not deceased, it is important to note the vital role of Demond Wilson, who played Lamont Sanford, the long-suffering son and business partner. Lamont was the show’s straight man, the voice of reason who constantly tried to rein in his father’s wild antics. Wilson’s performance provided the grounding element of the show, making Fred’s outrageous behavior even funnier by comparison. Their on-screen relationship was the emotional core of the series, a perfect blend of exasperation and love.
Following the show’s end, Wilson became a minister and has continued to work in television and film. While he is not among the deceased, his essential partnership with the late Redd Foxx is a fundamental part of the show’s legacy. Their chemistry was the engine that drove Sanford and Son to success, and their performances will forever be linked.
Nathaniel Taylor (Rollo Larson)
Nathaniel Taylor played Rollo Larson, Lamont’s best friend. Rollo was a smooth-talking, street-smart character who was often a source of Fred’s suspicion and disdain. Fred frequently referred to him as a “jive turkey” and a “big dummy.” Rollo’s cool demeanor and laid-back attitude made for a great contrast to Fred’s explosive personality, and his interactions with the cantankerous old man were always a source of great comedy.
Nathaniel Taylor was a talented actor who had a knack for playing memorable supporting roles. He was a familiar face on television in the 1970s and 80s, appearing in various shows and films. Nathaniel Taylor passed away on February 27, 2019, at the age of 81. His work as Rollo is remembered fondly by fans who appreciated his contribution to the show’s vibrant and hilarious world.
The Supporting Cast We Lost
Beyond the main cast, several other actors who brought the world of Sanford and Son to life have also passed away.
- Don Bexley (Bubba Bexley): As Bubba, Fred’s jovial and easy-going friend, Bexley provided some of the show’s most heartwarming moments. He passed away on April 15, 1997.
- Mel Stewart (Woodrow “Woody” Anderson): Stewart played Woodrow, another of Fred’s friends who would often get caught up in his schemes. He passed away on February 24, 2002.
- Pat Morita (Ah Chew): Best known for his iconic role as Mr. Miyagi in The Karate Kid, Pat Morita had a recurring role on Sanford and Son as Ah Chew, the owner of a Chinese restaurant. His interactions with Fred, who often made racist jokes about him, were a source of both humor and social commentary. Morita passed away on November 24, 2005.
The legacy of Sanford and Son is built on the talent and unforgettable performances of its cast. While many of them have left us, their contributions to television history and their ability to make us laugh will never be forgotten. The show remains a testament to their comedic genius and a reminder of the power of a television series to capture the heart and soul of an era. The characters they created are timeless, and for that, we will always be grateful.
