‘Sanford and Son’ Star Demond Wilson Dies at 79

Demond Wilson, famed for his role as Lamont Sanford in the iconic 1970s sitcom “Sanford and Son,” has passed away at age 79. He died on Friday at his home in the Palm Springs area of Southern California due to complications related to cancer. The news was confirmed by his publicist, Mark Goldman, who expressed deep sorrow over Wilson’s death, stating, “He was an unbelievable man, and his impact will never be forgotten.”

Life and Career of Demond Wilson

Born in Valdosta, Georgia, in 1946, Demond Wilson grew up in a working-class Catholic family. He spent much of his youth in Harlem, New York City, where he studied dance. Wilson’s early passion for performing led him to Broadway, and he later served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.

After returning from military service, Wilson began appearing in various on- and off-Broadway productions. His big break came in 1972 when he was cast as Lamont Sanford in “Sanford and Son,” a show that offered a unique portrayal of Black family life through its comedic lens.

• Character: Lamont Sanford, son of Fred Sanford played by Redd Foxx
• Show Concept: Based on the British series “Steptoe and Son”
• Notable Works:
  • Baby… I’m Back! (late 1970s)
  • The New Odd Couple
  • Films: Cotton Comes to Harlem (1970), The Organization (1971)

Impact and Legacy

“Sanford and Son” was groundbreaking, providing a rarely seen depiction of Black family dynamics on network television. Wilson’s portrayal of Lamont provided substance to the character, making him memorable alongside Foxx’s Fred Sanford.

Beyond acting, Wilson was known for his strong Christian faith. After a severe health scare in his youth, he devoted his life to God. In the 1980s, he was ordained as a Pentecostal minister and simultaneously pursued careers in acting and preaching.

In 1998, Wilson authored “The New Age Millennium: An Expose of Symbols, Slogans and Hidden Agenda,” offering a Christian critique of the New Age movement and other spiritual ideologies.

Wilson will be remembered not only for his contributions to television and film but also for his profound impact as a person of faith.