A Legacy of Laughter: Honoring the Last Living Stars of Sanford and Son
For millions of viewers, the dusty junkyard of Sanford and Son was more than a set; it was a home, a place where sharp wit, family feuds, and heartfelt moments collided to create one of television’s most iconic sitcoms. Anchored by the legendary Redd Foxx as the cantankerous Fred G. Sanford and the equally brilliant Demond Wilson as his long-suffering son, Lamont, the show was a cultural touchstone that revolutionized the portrayal of Black families on television.
Decades have passed since the series finale, and the cast that brought this world to life has slowly dwindled. The show’s two main stars, Redd Foxx and Demond Wilson, have since passed away, leaving a profound void. However, a select few of the show’s major players are still with us, their lives a testament to the show’s enduring legacy. These are the last living actors who were at the heart of the Sanford and Son universe.
The Last of the Ladies: Lynn Hamilton and Don Bexley
While the show’s humor was largely driven by the male characters, it was the female cast members who provided much of the heart and grounded reality. The last surviving female major actor from the show is Lynn Hamilton, who played Fred’s long-time love interest, Donna Harris.
Donna was a steady, loving presence in Fred’s chaotic life. She was a no-nonsense woman who saw through Fred’s scams and manipulations but loved him for the man he was underneath all the bluster. Their relationship was a sweet and touching subplot that provided a stark contrast to the constant bickering between Fred and Lamont. Hamilton’s performance was one of quiet dignity and grace, and she brought a sense of authenticity to the role that made her an instant fan favorite. Now in her 90s, Hamilton’s legacy extends far beyond Sanford and Son. She was a prolific actress with a career spanning over four decades, appearing in countless television shows and films, including a recurring role on The Waltons.
The second living major actor from the show is Don Bexley, who played Fred’s rival, Bubba Bexley. While Bubba was a frequent source of annoyance for Fred, he was also his best friend, a loyal and good-hearted man who was always there for the Sanford family. Bexley’s comedic timing was impeccable, and his chemistry with Redd Foxx was pure gold. Now 102 years old, Bexley is a living legend, a connection to a bygone era of comedy.
The Supporting Cast with an Enduring Impact
While Hamilton and Bexley are the only remaining actors who had a major, recurring presence throughout the series, a few other notable supporting actors who made a significant impact are also still alive. One of these is LaWanda Page, who played the show’s most iconic and beloved character, Aunt Esther. While she passed away in 2002, her fiery personality and relentless verbal sparring with Fred Sanford made her an unforgettable presence. She is a constant presence in the show’s memory, and her legacy of humor lives on.
Another actress who made a lasting impression was Emily Yancy, who played Grady’s girlfriend, Dolly. Her brief but memorable appearances added a touch of elegance and warmth to the show’s world. As discussed in a previous article, Yancy is now 99 years old and remains a stunning and graceful presence, a testament to her timeless beauty.
Finally, we must mention Tina Andrews, who played Fred’s adopted daughter, Donna, in the final season. Andrews’s character brought a new dynamic to the Sanford household, and she added a fresh energy to the show’s final episodes. She is now a successful writer and producer, and her career is a testament to the show’s ability to launch and nurture new talent.
The Legacy of the Show’s Main Stars
While it is a joy to celebrate the living legends of Sanford and Son, it is impossible to talk about the show without remembering the two men who made it a phenomenon.
Redd Foxx, the show’s undeniable heart and soul, was a comedy genius. His portrayal of Fred G. Sanford was a masterclass in physical and verbal comedy. He was a force of nature, and his catchphrases, like “You big dummy!” and “It’s the big one, Elizabeth!”, are still part of the cultural lexicon. Foxx’s untimely death in 1991, at the age of 68, was a shock to the world.
Demond Wilson, who played Lamont Sanford, was Foxx’s perfect foil. He was the straight man to Foxx’s comedic chaos, and their dynamic was the engine that drove the show. Their relationship, which went from constant bickering to moments of genuine love and affection, was the emotional core of the series. After the show ended, Wilson went on to a successful career as a minister and an author. He passed away in 2024, leaving a profound void in the hearts of fans.
A Timeless Classic
The passing of the show’s main stars reminds us of the fleeting nature of life, but it also reinforces the power of art to create a lasting legacy. Sanford and Son is a show that will be watched and loved for generations to come. Its humor is timeless, its characters are unforgettable, and its themes of family, love, and community are universal.
The fact that we can still honor and celebrate the living actors from the show is a gift. They are a connection to a golden age of television, a reminder of a time when laughter was a shared experience and when a simple sitcom could bring people together.
So, the next time you watch an episode of Sanford and Son, take a moment to appreciate the genius of Redd Foxx and Demond Wilson. And then, take another moment to appreciate the enduring legacy of Lynn Hamilton and Don Bexley, the last living stars of a show that will live on forever. They are the final keepers of the show’s legacy, and their lives are a testament to the power of a television show to create a world that lives on in our hearts and minds.
