‘Sanfrod and Son’ Star Grady Demond Wilson Dies at 79
Grady Demond Wilson, famed for his role as Lamont Sanford on the acclaimed 1970s sitcom “Sanford and Son,” has passed away at 79. He died at his home in California, as confirmed by his son, Christopher Wilson. The actor had been battling prostate cancer.
Legacy of “Sanford and Son”
“Sanford and Son” debuted on NBC in January 1972. The series featured comedian Redd Foxx as Fred Sanford, a sharp-tongued junk dealer. Wilson portrayed Lamont, a character who played a pivotal role in maintaining the emotional depth of the show. He often clashed with his father’s outrageous antics, responding with memorable lines that showcased his frustration.
The series enjoyed critical acclaim and commercial success, consistently ranking in Nielsen’s top ten for its initial five years. During this period, it achieved the distinction of landing in the top five shows three times.
Early Life and Career
Born on October 13, 1946, in Valdosta, Georgia, Wilson spent his formative years in Harlem. His early exposure to the arts included studying dance and theater. He made his screen debut in 1971, appearing in Norman Lear’s groundbreaking show, “All in the Family.”
Wilson’s performance in “Sanford and Son” garnered him significant recognition. Ebony magazine praised him as “excellent,” highlighting his contribution to the show’s success. He often reflected on this role as a significant milestone in his career.
Challenges and Achievements
While “Sanford and Son” thrived in ratings, tensions occasionally arose off-screen, including a notable contract dispute that led to Foxx temporarily leaving the set in 1974. The series concluded in spring 1977, leaving a lasting imprint on television history.
After the show, Wilson appeared in several other productions, such as “Baby … I’m Back!” and “The New Odd Couple.” However, none reached the iconic status of his role in “Sanford and Son.”
Personal Life and Later Years
Wilson faced a life-threatening event at the age of 12 when he suffered a ruptured appendix. This experience shaped his faith journey, leading him to become an ordained minister in the Church of God in Christ during the 1980s. Alongside acting, he wrote extensively, authoring several books including his memoir, “Second Banana: The Bittersweet Memoirs of the Sanford & Son Years.”
His career continued with roles in various productions, including “Me and the Kid” and a notable appearance in “Eleanor’s Bench” in 2023. Despite his success, Wilson often expressed his disillusionment with Hollywood, stating that he viewed it primarily as a business.
Family and Survivors
Wilson was married to model Cicely Johnston in 1974. He is survived by his wife, their six children—Christopher, Nicole, Melissa, Sarah, Tabatha, and Demond Jr.—as well as two grandchildren. His legacy continues to resonate through his influential role in television history.
