Demond Wilson, the beloved actor who played Lamont on the iconic 1970s sitcom “Sanford and Son” and later became a minister, has died at 79 due to cancer complications.
Demond Wilson, widely recognized for his role as Lamont Sanford, the long-suffering son of Redd Foxx’s Fred Sanford in the hit 1970s sitcom “Sanford and Son,” has passed away at the age of 79. Publicist Mark Goldman confirmed Wilson’s death on Friday, stating it was due to complications from cancer. Goldman described Wilson as "a devoted father, actor, author, and minister" who lived a life centered on faith, service, and compassion, aiming to positively impact communities. "Sanford and Son," which premiered in 1972, was a groundbreaking show for its largely Black cast and became a major hit for NBC, running for six seasons. Wilson’s character, Lamont, was known for enduring his junkyard owner father's various schemes, prejudices, and famous insults like "You big dummy!" Born in Valdosta, Georgia, and raised in Harlem, Wilson served in the U.S. Army in Vietnam, where he was wounded. He pursued acting on stage in New York before moving to Hollywood. A guest role on “All in the Family” in 1971 led to his iconic part on "Sanford and Son," a role he reportedly won over comedian Richard Pryor, advocating for a 'straight man' to balance the comedic lead. After the show concluded, Wilson starred in other comedies like “Baby I’m Back” and “The New Odd Couple,” and later appeared in "Girlfriends" and various films. Despite his acting career, Wilson expressed in 1986 that acting wasn't challenging and was "emotionally exhausting." He transitioned to ministry in the 1980s. He is survived by his wife, Cicely Wilson, and their six children.
