“Sanford and Son” Icon Grady Demond Wilson Passes Away at 79
It’s a very sad day for television history. Grady Demond Wilson, the man who brought the sharp-witted and long-suffering Lamont Sanford to life on the legendary sitcom “Sanford and Son,” has passed away. He was 79 years old.
According to reports from multiple outlets, Wilson died at his home in Palm Springs, California, on Friday, Jan. 30, due to complications from cancer. His son, Demond Wilson Jr., confirmed the news, sharing a simple yet touching sentiment about his father: “I loved him. He was a great man.”
Grady Demond Wilson – More Than an Actor
For those of us who grew up with the sounds of that iconic funky theme song, Wilson wasn’t just an actor; he was a comedian. He was best known as half of one of the greatest comedic duos ever to hit the small screen.
A Legacy Etched in Laughter
Born in Valdosta, Georgia, and raised in New York City, Wilson served in Vietnam before finding his footing in Hollywood. However, in 1972, he became a household name. As Lamont Sanford, the frustrated but loyal son of the feisty and cantankerous junk dealer Fred Sanford (played by the late, great Redd Foxx), Wilson was the perfect straight man.
He grounded Foxx’s wild antics and provided the necessary balance that made “Sanford and Son” a total ratings powerhouse for NBC. For five seasons (1972–1977), Wilson and Foxx didn’t just make people laugh; they broke barriers. They proved that a sitcom centered on Black characters could dominate viewership – and they paved the way for countless shows that followed.
Wilson often spoke about the chemistry he shared with Foxx, once comparing their relationship to a marriage – sometimes sweet, sometimes bitter, but undeniably successful. In his memoir lovingly titled “Second Banana,” he reflected on their impact, noting, “We were the first Blacks to be on television in that capacity… we opened the door for all those other shows that came after us.”
Life After the Junkyard
After “Sanford and Son” ended, Wilson didn’t disappear from the spotlight, though he never quite found a role that eclipsed Lamont. He starred in the short-lived series “Baby… I’m Back!” and also appeared in films like “Me and the Kid” (1993) and made television guest appearances on staples like “The Love Boat” and “Girlfriends.”
However, Wilson’s life took a spiritual turn away from Hollywood’s glare. He became an ordained minister and spent much of his later life focused on his faith and family. Per Parade, Wilson is survived by his wife, Cicely Johnston, and their six children.
He did, however, give fans one final gift recently, returning to the screen in 2023. He portrayed Isaac for the drama “Eleanor’s Bench” after a long hiatus.
Remembering a TV Pioneer
With Wilson’s passing, we lose the last main link to the original “Sanford and Son” cast. Redd Foxx left us in 1991, and other beloved supporting actors like LaWanda Page (Aunt Esther) and Nathaniel Taylor (Rollo) have also passed on.
Wilson leaves behind a legacy of laughter that has transcended generations. Whether you watched him during the original run or discovered him through reruns on TV Land, his exasperated “Pop!” is humorously – and touchingly etched into our collective memory. He was a vital part of television history, a Vietnam vet, a man of faith, and a father. Rest in peace, Lamont. You’ve finally joined the big junkyard in the sky with Fred.
