Share and Follow
Demond Wilson, the actor renowned for his role as Lamont in the iconic 1970s sitcom “Sanford and Son,” has sadly passed away at the age of 79. His passing marks the end of a vibrant career that spanned acting, writing, and ministry.
Wilson’s publicist, Mark Goldman, confirmed to The Associated Press that the beloved actor died on Friday from complications related to cancer. His contribution to television and his later life as a minister left a lasting impact on many.
In a heartfelt statement, Goldman reflected on Wilson’s life, describing him as a devoted father, actor, author, and minister. “Demond lived a life rooted in faith, service, and compassion. Through his work on screen, his writing, and his ministry, he sought to uplift others and leave a meaningful impact on the communities he served,” Goldman noted.
Wilson’s portrayal of Lamont Sanford, the patient and thoughtful son of Redd Foxx’s famously grumpy character, Fred Sanford, brought him widespread acclaim. “Sanford and Son” was groundbreaking for its time, being among the first sitcoms to feature a predominantly Black cast when it premiered in 1972.
Audiences fondly remember Lamont for his endurance of his father’s outlandish schemes and frequent insults, particularly the infamous catchphrase, “You big dummy!” Through humor and heart, Wilson’s performance resonated with viewers and cemented his place in television history.
The show was a hit for its six seasons on NBC but ended when ABC offered Foxx a variety show.
Wilson was born in Valdosta, Georgia, and grew up in the Harlem section of Manhattan, according to the biography on his website.
He served in the U.S. Army in Vietnam and was wounded there, and he returned to New York and acted on stage before heading to Hollywood.
A guest appearance on “All in the Family” in 1971 led to his best-known role. Norman Lear produced both shows.
Wilson told AP in 2022 that he got the role over comedian Richard Pryor.
“I said, ‘C’mon, you can’t put a comedian with a comedian. You’ve got to have a straight man,’” he said he told the producers.
After “Sanford and Son” ended, Wilson starred in the shorter-lived comedies “Baby I’m Back” and “The New Odd Couple.” He later appeared in four episodes of the show “Girlfriends” in the 2000s, along with a handful of movie roles.
Though he returned to the screen at times, he told the Los Angeles Times in 1986 that the acting life was not for him: “It wasn’t challenging. And it was emotionally exhausting because I had to make it appear that I was excited about what I was doing.”
Wilson became a minister in the 1980s.
He is survived by his wife, Cicely Wilson, and their six children.
Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.