What Happened to the Cast of Sanford and Son: A Look into Their Lives
Sanford and Son was a groundbreaking sitcom that aired from 1972 to 1977, captivating audiences with its hilarious comedy and endearing characters. The show revolved around junk dealer Fred G. Sanford, played by the legendary Redd Foxx, and his son Lamont, portrayed by Demond Wilson. As the years have passed since the show’s end, fans have often wondered what happened to their beloved cast. Join us as we take a closer look into the lives of the actors who brought these memorable characters to life.
1. Redd Foxx (Fred G. Sanford):
Redd Foxx continued to charm audiences with his comedic talents after Sanford and Son. He appeared in several TV shows and movies, including The Royal Family, Harlem Nights, and The Redd Foxx Show. Tragically, Foxx passed away on October 11, 1991, at the age of 68, due to a heart attack during a rehearsal for his TV show. His legacy lives on as one of the greatest comedians of all time.
2. Demond Wilson (Lamont Sanford):
Demond Wilson, who played Fred’s loyal and exasperated son Lamont, pursued a career in ministry after Sanford and Son. He became an ordained minister and founded Restoration House of America, a nondenominational Christian organization. Wilson also appeared in a few TV shows and movies, including Baby, I’m Back and The New Odd Couple. As of 2023, he is happily retired and continues to contribute to his community through his ministry work.
3. LaWanda Page (Aunt Esther):
LaWanda Page played the feisty Aunt Esther, Fred’s sister-in-law, who always had a sharp tongue for him. Page continued to act after Sanford and Son, making appearances in films like Friday and Shakes the Clown. Sadly, she passed away on September 14, 2002, at the age of 81, due to complications from diabetes. Page’s portrayal of Aunt Esther remains iconic and unforgettable.
4. Nathaniel Taylor (Rollo Lawson):
Nathaniel Taylor portrayed Rollo Lawson, Lamont’s best friend, and often found himself roped into Fred’s schemes. Following Sanford and Son, Taylor appeared in several TV shows, including What’s Happening!!, What’s Happening Now!!, and The Redd Foxx Show. He retired from acting in the early 1990s and passed away on February 27, 2019, at the age of 80. Taylor will always be remembered for his role as the lovable and mischievous Rollo.
5. Whitman Mayo (Grady Wilson):
Whitman Mayo played Grady Wilson, Fred’s best friend and frequent companion. After Sanford and Son, Mayo continued to act in various TV shows, including The New Odd Couple and The Redd Foxx Show. He passed away on May 22, 2001, at the age of 70, due to a heart attack. Mayo’s portrayal of the kind-hearted Grady added warmth and humor to the show.
Now, let’s answer some common questions fans have about the cast of Sanford and Son:
1. How old would Redd Foxx be in 2023?
Redd Foxx would have been 96 years old in 2023.
2. Is Demond Wilson still acting?
No, Demond Wilson retired from acting and now focuses on his ministry work.
3. How old was LaWanda Page when she passed away?
LaWanda Page was 81 years old at the time of her passing.
4. What other TV shows did Nathaniel Taylor appear in?
Nathaniel Taylor appeared in What’s Happening!!, What’s Happening Now!!, and The Redd Foxx Show.
5. How old was Whitman Mayo when he died?
Whitman Mayo was 70 years old at the time of his passing.
6. Did Redd Foxx die while filming his TV show?
Yes, Redd Foxx suffered a heart attack and passed away during a rehearsal for his TV show.
7. Did Demond Wilson become a minister?
Yes, Demond Wilson became an ordained minister and founded Restoration House of America.
8. What was LaWanda Page’s cause of death?
LaWanda Page passed away due to complications from diabetes.
9. How old was Nathaniel Taylor when he died?
Nathaniel Taylor was 80 years old at the time of his passing.
10. What happened to Whitman Mayo after Sanford and Son?
Whitman Mayo continued to act in various TV shows until his passing.
11. Are there any reunions planned for the Sanford and Son cast?
As of 2023, there have been no official announcements regarding a Sanford and Son cast reunion.
12. Did Redd Foxx receive any posthumous awards?
No, Redd Foxx did not receive any posthumous awards.
13. What legacy did Sanford and Son leave behind?
Sanford and Son broke barriers and paved the way for future African American sitcoms, leaving a lasting impact on television history.
14. Can I stream Sanford and Son online?
Yes, Sanford and Son is available for streaming on various platforms like Hulu and Amazon Prime Video.
