Behind-the-scenes gold from the beloved sitcom surfaces after 50 years
Television archivists have confirmed the discovery of several reel-to-reel tapes containing never-before-seen footage from the set of Sanford and Son. The tapes, found in the private collection of a former NBC cameraman, reveal candid moments between Redd Foxx (Fred Sanford) and Demond Wilson (Lamont Sanford) that were never part of the scripted episodes.
In one particularly heartwarming clip, Foxx, still in character, improvises a pep talk to Wilson after a long day of filming. Crew members can be heard laughing as the two actors slip seamlessly between banter and genuine affection.
“These tapes are important because they show the real relationship behind the comedy,” says TV historian Carol Marks. “It wasn’t just acting — there was a genuine father-son dynamic off camera.”
Negotiations are underway to include the restored footage in an upcoming Sanford and Son 50th anniversary box set, set for release next year.
