‘227’ & ‘Sanford and Son’ Star Hal Williams Dies At 91, Leaving Behind A Legendary TV Legacy

Hollywood is mourning the loss of veteran actor Hal Williams, who has passed away at the age of 91.

According to his representative, Williams died on Wednesday, July 15, at his home in Rancho Mirage, California.

Best known for his memorable roles on classic television shows such as Sanford and Son, The Waltons and 227, Williams enjoyed a career that spanned more than five decades and made him a beloved figure in Black television history.

Born Halroy Candis Williams in Columbus, Ohio, the actor didn’t begin pursuing his Hollywood dreams until his 30s. Before stepping into acting, he worked as a social worker, corrections officer and postal worker.

Following his divorce, Williams made the life-changing decision to move to Los Angeles in 1968 to chase his passion.

“I sat down after getting divorced and said, ‘What do I really want to try to do before the maker comes and gets me?’ And it was acting,” he previously shared.

That leap of faith paid off.

In 1972, Williams landed the role of Officer “Smitty” Smith on Sanford and Son, appearing in 20 episodes and becoming a fan favorite alongside Howard Platt’s Officer “Hoppy” Hopkins.

He later appeared on The Waltons, On the Rocks, and starred in the film Private Benjamin before landing one of his most iconic roles as Lester Jenkins on 227 in 1985.

Starring alongside Marla Gibbs, Jackée Harry and a young Regina King in her television debut, 227 became one of the defining sitcoms of the era and remains a staple in Black television culture.

Throughout his career, Williams also appeared in projects including Moesha, The Sinbad Show, A Black Lady Sketch Show, Flight, and The Rookie.

Despite often being recognized for his comedic roles, Williams previously expressed his desire to be seen as a serious actor, noting that he frequently played the “straight man” amid the chaos.

Reflecting on his remarkable journey, Williams once said, “I’ve prided myself on choosing a profession where you don’t have to stop working. You just get older as you work.”

Hal Williams leaves behind an incredible legacy in television and film, as well as his children and countless fans who grew up watching his unforgettable performances.

Rest in peace to a true television legend.