Wilson passed away on January 30, 2026, at his home in Palm Springs, California, from complications related to cancer.
His son, Demond Wilson Jr., confirmed the death and stated, "I loved him. He was a great man."
The announcement of Demond Wilson death quickly spread, drawing attention to the actor's contributions to television history through his portrayal of the long-suffering son in one of the most popular sitcoms of the 1970s.
Demond Wilson, born Grady Demond Wilson on October 13, 1946, in Valdosta, Georgia, was raised in Harlem, New York. He began performing young, making his Broadway debut at age four and appearing at Harlem's Apollo Theater by age 12. He studied tap dance and ballet.
Wilson served in the United States Army from 1966 to 1968 with the 4th Infantry Division during the Vietnam War. He was wounded in action and received the Purple Heart.
Breakthrough Role in 'Sanford and Son'
Wilson's most famous role was as Lamont Sanford, the son of junk dealer Fred Sanford (played by Redd Foxx), on "Sanford and Son" from 1972 to 1977. The show, an adaptation of the British series "Steptoe and Son," became a massive hit and was among the first major network sitcoms starring Black actors in lead roles.
Lamont often clashed with his father in comedic fashion, frequently hearing the catchphrase "You big dummy!" The series ran for six seasons and remained popular in syndication for decades, influencing subsequent Black-led television comedies.
Wilson starred in the role for the full run but declined to participate in the short-lived 1980-1981 revival. In later reflections, he described a complex professional relationship with Foxx, noting forgiveness for past issues while acknowledging their historic collaboration: "We 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."
Later Acting Career
After "Sanford and Son," Wilson appeared in the short-lived CBS sitcom "Baby... I'm Back!" (1978) as Raymond Ellis. He also starred as Oscar Madison in the 1982-1983 ABC series "The New Odd Couple," a Black-cast version of the classic comedy.
His film credits include "The Organization" (1971), "Dealing: Or the Berkeley-to-Boston Forty-Brick Lost-Bag Blues" (1972), "Full Moon High" (1981), "Me and the Kid" (1993), and "Hammerlock" (2000). He made guest appearances on shows such as "The Love Boat," "Today's F.B.I.," "All in the Family," and "Girlfriends."
After a nearly 20-year hiatus from acting, Wilson returned in 2023 for the faith-based project "Eleanor’s Bench."
Ministry and Authorship
In 1984, Wilson was ordained as a minister in the Church of God in Christ. He became an active evangelist and appeared on the Trinity Broadcasting Network's "Praise the Lord."
He authored several books, including "New Age Millennium" (1998), which critiqued the New Age movement, and his memoir "Second Banana: The Bittersweet Memoirs of the Sanford & Son Years" (2009). He also wrote children's books.
Personal Life and Family
Wilson married former model Cicely Johnston (also referred to as Cicely Loise Johnston) on May 3, 1974. She appeared in the 1970s film "Caged Heat." The couple had six children: Christopher, Demond Jr., Louise, Sarah, Nicole, and Mellisa (or Melissa).
He is survived by his wife of more than 51 years and their six children. Reports listed his estimated net worth at $2.5 million as of 2025.
Legacy and Impact
Demond Wilson's death marks the passing of the last main surviving star from the original "Sanford and Son" cast. The sitcom's success helped pave the way for greater diversity in American television during the 1970s.
Tributes have begun to emerge from fans and industry figures, highlighting Wilson's portrayal of Lamont as a relatable, ambitious everyman. The series continues to air in syndication and stream, introducing new generations to the comedy duo of Fred and Lamont Sanford.
No details on funeral arrangements or a public memorial have been announced. Wilson's family has requested privacy during this time.
The news of Grady Demond Wilson death and Sanford and Son Lamont actor dies has prompted renewed interest in the actor's full body of work, including his military service, acting credits, and later ministry. His obituary underscores a career spanning Broadway, television, film, and faith-based endeavors.
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