On Friday, January 30, 2026, the cherished actor Grady Demond Wilson, known for his role as Lamont Sanford in the groundbreaking NBC sitcom “Sanford and Son,” passed away at his residence in Palm Springs, California. Wilson was 79 years of age.
Wilson’s death was confirmed by his son, Demond Wilson Jr., who stated that his father succumbed to complications from cancer. The specific type of cancer was not revealed. Wilson Jr. expressed his love for his father during a conversation with TMZ, describing him as a “great man”.
From 1972 to 1977, Wilson played alongside the comedic icon Redd Foxx in “Sanford and Son,” portraying Foxx’s frustrated son Lamont Sanford. The sitcom was among the first to cast Black Americans in leading roles, reaching a wide viewership and creating a precedent for future television shows. The series consistently ranked high on the Nielsen ratings, even reaching the number two spot, trailing only behind “All in the Family”.
In his 2009 autobiography titled “Second Banana: The Bittersweet Memoirs of the Sanford and Son Years,” Wilson reflected on the historical significance of the show. He said, “Redd and I were making history back in those days. We were the first Blacks to be on television in that capacity and we opened the door for all those other shows that came after us.”
Wilson was born on October 13, 1946, in Valdosta, Georgia, and was raised in Harlem, New York City. Before his successful television career, he served in the 4th Infantry Division of the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War from 1966 to 1968. He was injured in combat and returned home as a decorated veteran.
Post his service in Vietnam, Wilson refined his acting skills on stage, featuring in Broadway and Off-Broadway productions. His television career started with guest roles on popular shows like “All in the Family” and “Mission: Impossible”. He also appeared in the 1971 film “The Organization” before landing the career-defining role in “Sanford and Son”.
Wilson continued to work in television even after “Sanford and Son” concluded, starring in the 1978 CBS sitcom “Baby… I’m Back!” and leading the ABC’s “The New Odd Couple” from 1982 to 1983. Both shows lasted a single season. He later appeared in the 1993 comedy film “Me and the Kid”.
In the 1980s, Wilson found spirituality and became an ordained Christian minister in 1984 in the Church of God in Christ. His faith became a key part of his life’s work, leading to the establishment of the Restoration House of America in 1994, an organization committed to aiding rehabilitation of former inmates through spiritual guidance and vocational education.
Besides his acting career and ministry, Wilson also published several Christian books and an autobiography. In his memoir, he offered a truthful account of his time on “Sanford and Son,” offering a behind-the-scenes look into the events during those years.
Wilson made his last screen appearance in 2023 in the drama “Eleanor’s Bench,” demonstrating his enduring passion for acting.
Wilson married former model Cicely Johnston on May 3, 1974, and together they raised six children. Wilson largely kept his personal life private, letting his work stand as his public persona.
The passing of Wilson follows the death of his “Sanford and Son” co-star Lynn Hamilton, who portrayed Donna Harris on the series, on June 19, 2025, at age 95. The demise of Wilson signifies an end of an era for the fans of the iconic sitcom that has become a part of American television history.
Wilson’s impact on television went beyond providing entertainment. Together with Redd Foxx, he played a crucial role in breaking racial barriers in Hollywood during a critical period in American culture. “Sanford and Son” has been credited as the forerunner of many other Black American sitcoms, showing that shows focused on Black families can attain mainstream success and influence television programming for many years.
His later life was characterized by his work as a minister and advocate for former prisoners, showing his commitment to service and craft. From military service and groundbreaking entertainment to spiritual leadership and social advocacy, Wilson’s life was multifaceted.
Wilson is survived by his wife Cicely, their six children, and numerous fans who continue to appreciate “Sanford and Son” through reruns and streaming services, ensuring his legacy continues to inspire new generations.