For generations, the iconic opening credits of Sanford and Son—the classic theme song, the junk-filled yard, and the two mismatched leads—have been a source of instant nostalgia. The show, which ran from 1972 to 1977, was more than just a sitcom; it was a cultural phenomenon that cemented the comedic legend of Redd Foxx and the dramatic gravitas of Demond Wilson. While most fans are aware that the show’s two most famous stars, Redd Foxx and LaWanda Page (Aunt Esther), have passed on, the laughter of the series was built on a brilliant ensemble of supporting actors whose faces and voices are instantly recognizable. These actors, who brought the vibrant world of Watts to life, also deserve to be remembered for their contributions. Many viewers may not know that a significant number of these beloved recurring characters have also passed away.
This article is a heartfelt tribute to the supporting players of Sanford and Son, the actors who were an essential part of the show’s magic. They were the neighbors, the friends, and the foils who made the world of Fred G. Sanford feel real. Their legacy lives on in every laugh-out-loud moment and every timeless episode.
The Best Friends and Neighbors
Whitman Mayo as Grady Wilson (1920-2001) No list of Sanford and Son‘s greatest supporting characters is complete without Grady Wilson. As Fred’s dazed, befuddled, and endlessly lovable best friend, Whitman Mayo created a character who was so popular he eventually led his own short-lived spin-off. Grady was the perfect, gentle foil to Fred’s blustery, paranoid antics. He was the only person Fred truly trusted, and their friendship was a source of warmth and humor throughout the series. With his signature phrase, “Good googly-moogly!”, Mayo’s performance was a masterclass in comedic timing and physical humor. He passed away in 2001, but his memory and his beloved character continue to bring joy to generations of viewers.
Nathaniel Taylor as Rollo Lawson (1938-2019) As Lamont’s cool, streetwise best friend, Rollo Lawson was a constant source of frustration for Fred, who saw him as a bad influence on his son. Played with an effortless charm by Nathaniel Taylor, Rollo was the embodiment of the younger generation, a contrast to Fred’s old-school ways. While he was often on the receiving end of Fred’s insults and distrust, his loyalty to Lamont was unwavering. Nathaniel Taylor’s passing in 2019 marked the end of an era for the show’s fans, who had come to love his smooth delivery and friendly, genuine demeanor. He was an integral part of the show’s dynamic, and his legacy lives on in every one of his iconic scenes.
Don Bexley as Bubba Bexley (1910-1997) A close friend of Fred and the star of the later seasons, Bubba Bexley was a recurring presence in the show. Don Bexley, a musician and comedian in his own right, brought a genuine sense of warmth to the character. His quiet, gentle nature was a perfect counterpoint to the show’s more boisterous personalities. He was a familiar and beloved face, and his passing in 1997 was a quiet loss for the show’s fans. He may not have had as many lines as some of the other characters, but his presence was always felt.
The Recurring Faces
Gregory Sierra as Julio Fuentes (1937-2021) A character who often had Fred G. Sanford “coming to get him,” Julio Fuentes was the Ricardos’ Puerto Rican neighbor. Their relationship was a comedic goldmine, with Fred’s exaggerated paranoia and racial stereotypes clashing with Julio’s easygoing, friendly nature. Played brilliantly by Gregory Sierra, Julio was a character who, for a time, was a part of a comedic duo that was a staple of the show. Sierra, a prolific actor who went on to have a successful career in television, passed away in 2021. His work on Sanford and Son was a brief but memorable part of his legacy, and his character remains a fan favorite.
Raymond Allen as Woodrow “Woody” Anderson (1929-2020) As one of Fred’s closest friends, Woodrow “Woody” Anderson was a constant presence in the show’s later seasons. Played by Raymond Allen, Woody was a kind and gentle man who was always there to offer Fred a hand, even if it meant getting caught up in one of his schemes. He was a familiar face, a part of the show’s ensemble that made the world of Sanford and Son feel so real. Allen, who had a long and successful career in television, passed away in 2020, leaving behind a legacy of quiet, comedic brilliance.
Jack Albertson as Alistair Finch (1907-1981) An Academy Award-winning actor, Jack Albertson may be a surprise addition to this list, but his recurring role on Sanford and Son as the cantankerous, sarcastic neighbor Alistair Finch was a memorable one. He was a perfect comedic foil for Fred, with their humorous insults and biting wit. Albertson, who had a long and celebrated career in film and television, passed away in 1981, but his work on Sanford and Son is a testament to his versatility and his comedic genius.
Ernest Mayhand as Skillet (1944-2006) As a friend of Grady and Bubba, Skillet was a recurring presence in the show. Played by Ernest Mayhand, Skillet was a character who was always there to lend a hand, even if it meant getting caught up in a scheme. He was a familiar face, a part of the show’s ensemble that made the world of Sanford and Son feel so real. Mayhand, who had a long and successful career in television, passed away in 2006, leaving behind a legacy of quiet, comedic brilliance.
The Final Bow
While the world remembers Redd Foxx and LaWanda Page as the show’s legendary stars, the laughter of Sanford and Son was a collective effort. The show’s genius was built on the chemistry of its entire cast, a cast of brilliant actors who brought the world of Watts to life. These actors, many of whom have passed away, deserve to be remembered for their contributions. Their characters were not just comedic foils; they were friends, neighbors, and family. Their memory lives on in the laughter they brought to millions, and their legacy is a testament to the power of a single show to create a world that felt both real and endlessly funny.
