Grady Demond Wilson, the actor best known for his role as Lamont Sanford on the 1970s television series Sanford and Son, has died at his home in California, according to The New York Times. He was 79.
Wilson’s death was confirmed his longtime publicist, Mark Goldman of Goldman McCormick PR. In a statement, the family said they were deeply saddened by his passing.
“The family of Demond Wilson is deeply saddened by his passing. At this time, they ask for privacy as they grieve. No further details are available, and the family has no additional information to share.”
“Personally, I had the privilege of working with Demond for 15 years, and his loss is profoundly felt. He was an unbelievable man, and his impact will never be forgotten. The family appreciates the support and understanding of the community during this difficult time,” Goldman added.
Goldman said he worked with Wilson for 15 years and described him as an extraordinary person whose impact would not be forgotten. He added that the family appreciates the support and understanding shown during this time. No further details about Wilson’s death were released.
Born Grady Demond Wilson, he began his acting career in the early 1970s, appearing uncredited in the 1970 film Cotton Comes to Harlem. He later took on small roles in several popular television shows, including All in the Family, Mission: Impossible, and Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In.
Wilson’s breakout role came in 1972 when he was cast as Lamont Sanford, the son and business partner of Fred Sanford, played by Redd Foxx, on Sanford and Son. The series, adapted from the British show Steptoe and Son, became a major ratings success and ran for six seasons, becoming one of the most recognizable sitcoms of the 1970s.
After the show ended in 1977, Wilson went on to star in the sitcom Baby… I’m Back! and made appearances on shows including The Love Boat, The New Odd Couple, and Girlfriends.
Wilson is survived by his wife, Cicely Loise Johnston, and their six children.