‘Sanford and Son’ Star Passed Away At Age 79
Actor Grady Demond Wilson Dies at 79
Grady Demond Wilson, best known as Lamont Sanford on Sanford and Son, has died at 79. His son confirmed he was pronounced dead at
his Palm Springs home due to cancer-related complications.
Wilson’s breakthrough came in 1972 when he was cast opposite comedian Redd Foxx as Lamont Sanford, the level-headed son of Foxx’s c
Family Statement
Wilson’s son, Demond Wilson Jr., told TMZ, “I loved him.
He was a great man,” reflecting the family’s grief.
A Defining Career
Cast in 1972 opposite Redd Foxx, Wilson’s role as the steady Lamont Sanford became the emotional core of one of the 1970s’ most influential sitcoms.
He appeared throughout the original run and later returned for the revival Sanford.
Life Beyond Hollywood
After continued TV work, Wilson shifted toward faith, becoming a pastor, founding a Southern California church, and writing books including Second Banana:
The Bittersweet Memoirs of the Sanford and Son Years. He spoke openly about Hollywood pressures and finding purpose beyond fame.
