Sanford and Son delivered laughs every Friday night, but behind the scenes, it was anything but smooth sailing. Filmed at NBC Studios in Burbank, the show operated under tight time constraints, long taping nights, and sometimes heated cast disagreements. Despite its comedy, the set often reflected real-life tensions—both personal and political.
Redd Foxx, known for his sharp comedic instincts, frequently went off-script, improvising lines and facial reactions that left cast and crew scrambling to keep up. This was especially tricky for co-star Demond Wilson, who had to stay in character despite unexpected jokes. “We’d have to do three takes, not because of mistakes, but because the crew kept laughing,” Wilson later recalled.
Foxx was also deeply involved in every part of production—from casting decisions to set design. He insisted on authenticity, even bringing in actual junkyard items to decorate the set. He also hired friends from his stand-up days, creating a tight-knit (and sometimes chaotic) family.
One lesser-known story: during rehearsals, Foxx often wore sunglasses and slippers, claiming he saved his energy for the live audience. He also paid out-of-pocket for meals for the crew when NBC tightened the catering budget.
The magic of Sanford and Son wasn’t just in the script—it was in the energy, the improvisation, and the commitment to making something that felt real. And sometimes, that meant chaos was part of the charm.
