Hal Williams dies at 91: 'Sanford and Son' actor's onscreen son shares an emotional tribute

Veteran American actor Hal Williams, best known for his roles in the classic sitcoms Sanford and Son and 227, has died at the age of 91.

His death was confirmed by his family, with tributes pouring in from colleagues and fans who remembered him as one of television's most dependable character actors. The cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.

Among the most heartfelt messages came from actor Ernest Harden Jr, who played Williams' on-screen son. Sharing an emotional tribute on Instagram, Jackson revealed that he had spoken to the actor just a day before his passing.

"My TV Dad Hal Williams died at 91 today," he wrote. "I'd just spoken to him for an hour on FaceTime yesterday. He binge watched The Pitt on the plane back from Ohio and congratulated me on my nomination. We ended our conversation when he felt a little jet lag and needed to rest. My heart is heavy today. He always called me son."

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A familiar face in American television

Born on December 14, 1934, Williams built a career spanning more than five decades, becoming a familiar presence across American television and film.

He first gained widespread recognition playing Officer "Smitty" Smith on the hit NBC sitcom Sanford and Son, appearing alongside comedy legend Redd Foxx. His warm screen presence and understated humour made him a fan favourite during the show's successful run in the 1970s.

Williams later became equally well known for portraying Lester Jenkins in the long-running sitcom 227, starring Marla Gibbs. The series, which aired between 1985 and 1990, remains one of the defining family comedies of its era.

Career across television and film

Beyond his signature sitcom roles, Williams appeared in dozens of television series, including The Waltons, Roots: The Next Generations, Hill Street Blues, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, The Sinbad Show, Parks and Recreation and Modern Family.

His film credits included Private Benjamin, Guess Who, and several independent productions, reflecting a career marked by versatility rather than leading-man stardom.

Over the years, Williams earned a reputation as a reliable supporting actor who brought warmth, dignity and authenticity to every role.

Fans remember a television legend

News of Williams' death prompted an outpouring of tributes on social media, with many fans recalling childhood memories of watching Sanford and Son and 227.

While he rarely sought the spotlight, Hal Williams became one of the most recognisable character actors of American television, leaving behind a body of work that entertained audiences across generations.

He is survived by his family, friends and countless admirers who remember him as a performer whose quiet brilliance helped define some of television's most beloved sitcoms.