It’s been almost half a century since “Sanford and Son” first premiered, bringing laughter and groundbreaking comedy into living rooms across America. The iconic sitcom, which ran from 1972 to 1977, featured a legendary cast that left an indelible mark on television history. But what became of the stars who brought Fred, Lamont, Aunt Esther, and the gang to life? While some have passed on, others have built new lives and left behind lasting legacies.
Redd Foxx (Fred G. Sanford): A Life of Laughter, Legacy, and Sudden Loss
At the heart of “Sanford and Son” was the incomparable Redd Foxx, who played the cantankerous yet lovable junkman Fred G. Sanford. Foxx’s comedic genius, quick wit, and signature catchphrases (“You big dummy!”, “It’s the big one!”) made him a household name and a sitcom legend.
Off-screen, Foxx’s life was as colorful and complex as his on-screen persona. He had a long and storied career in stand-up comedy, known for his edgy and often controversial humor. Despite his immense success, Foxx faced significant financial challenges, including battles with the IRS. Tragically, in 1991, while on the set of his new sitcom “The Royal Family,” Foxx suffered a heart attack. In a cruel twist of fate, he collapsed during a scene where his character was experiencing a heart attack. Friends and colleagues initially thought he was joking, as he was known for his playful antics. Sadly, he passed away at the age of 68, leaving behind a monumental comedic legacy. His influence is still widely felt among comedians and actors today.
Demond Wilson (Lamont Sanford): From Sitcom Star to Man of God
As Fred’s long-suffering son, Lamont Sanford, Demond Wilson was the perfect foil to Foxx’s outrageous character. Wilson expertly balanced Lamont’s exasperation with deep affection for his father, providing much of the show’s heart. After “Sanford and Son” concluded, Wilson continued acting, appearing in various TV shows and films, including a spin-off called “Sanford” in the early 1980s.
However, Wilson’s path took a significant turn. He eventually left the glitz of Hollywood behind to answer a higher calling. He became an ordained minister and founded the Restoration House of America, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping ex-offenders and individuals struggling with drug addiction reintegrate into society. Wilson has also become an author, writing several books, including “Second Banana,” a memoir reflecting on his time on “Sanford and Son” and his journey to faith. Today, he continues his ministry and humanitarian work, a powerful testament to personal transformation.
LaWanda Page (Aunt Esther): A Scene-Stealing Icon
No discussion of “Sanford and Son” is complete without mentioning the unforgettable LaWanda Page as Aunt Esther. Fred’s Bible-thumping, purse-wielding sister-in-law was the source of some of the show’s most explosive and hilarious confrontations. Page’s over-the-top reactions and fiery delivery made her a true scene-stealer.
Like Redd Foxx, LaWanda Page also had a background in stand-up comedy and was known for her raunchy humor before “Sanford and Son.” Her friendship with Foxx led to her iconic role, even though her character’s humor was a stark contrast to her deeply religious Aunt Esther. After the show, Page continued to work in entertainment, making guest appearances on other TV shows and even appearing in music videos. She remained a beloved figure, often recognized for her signature glasses and fierce expressions. LaWanda Page passed away in 2002 at the age of 81, but her portrayal of Aunt Esther remains a comedic masterpiece that continues to be celebrated by fans.
The cast of “Sanford and Son” may have gone their separate ways, with some having left us too soon, but their contributions to comedy and television endure. Their legacy lives on through reruns and the countless laughs they continue to provide to new generations of viewers.
