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Demond Wilson, the actor widely recognized for his role as Lamont Sanford on the classic NBC sitcom Sanford and Son, died on Friday morning, January 30, 2026.
He was 79 years old. His son, Demond Wilson Jr., confirmed the news to TMZ, stating that his father passed away at his home in Palm Springs, California.
The cause of death was complications related to cancer, though the family did not specify the type of cancer he faced.
His son described him as a "great man" whom his family loved deeply.
Demond Wilson became a television icon in the 1970s, starring alongside Redd Foxx from 1972 to 1977.
As Lamont, he played the straight-man son to Foxx’s cantankerous Fred Sanford, a dynamic that made the show a massive success.
Following the end of the series, he starred in other television projects, including Baby... I'm Back! and The New Odd Couple.
He also appeared in films like Me and the Kid in 1993 and recently returned to acting in the 2023 drama Eleanor's Bench after a long hiatus.
In addition to his acting career, Demond Wilson was an ordained minister and author.
He spent many years focused on his faith and writing, moving away from the Hollywood spotlight for nearly two decades.
His portrayal of Lamont Sanford remains one of the most memorable performances in sitcom history, representing a groundbreaking era for Black representation on television.
Fans and former colleagues have begun sharing tributes, honoring his talent and his contribution to the golden age of television comedy.
His children and a legacy that continues to influence modern sitcoms survive him.
While he left the industry for a time, his recent return to the screen reminded audiences of the charisma and skill he brought to every role.
Furthermore, as the news of his passing spreads, many are revisiting the episodes of Sanford and Son that established him as a household name.
