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(NEXSTAR) — Lynn Hamilton, star of one the 1970s’ most iconic sitcoms, “Sanford and Son,” has died, according to her former manager/publicist. The retired actress was 95.
Hamilton’s former manager/publicist Calvin Carson announced her death via Facebook and Instagram on Thursday. In the post, he wrote, in part: “Be It Resolved: Lynn Hamilton transitioned peacefully on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at the age of 95, surrounded by her grandchildren, loved ones and caregivers.”

Hamilton, a native of Yazoo City, Mississippi, had several acting credits, though she was best known for playing Donna Harris, the fiancee of Fred Sanford (Redd Foxx) on the NBC sitcom that ran from 1972-77 and has lived on in reruns for decades.
In addition to “Sanford and Son,” Hamilton appeared on the 1970-80s family drama “The Waltons,” and had roles on ’90s legal drama “The Practice” and on the Brandy Norwood-led sitcom “Moesha.”
Hamilton also starred in “Generations,” a short-lived NBC soap opera that’s noted for being the first to feature a Black American family.
Hamilton’s last credited role is as an interview for the 2003 documentary “Beah: A Black Woman Speaks,” which discussed the life of Black American actress Beah Richards.
She is survived by grandchildren and other close friends.
This is a developing story.