Hal Williams Dies at 91: Sanford and Son and 227 Actor Remembered 2026

Hal Williams, the actor best known for his roles in Sanford and Son and 227, has died at the age of 91. His representative confirmed that Williams passed away on 15 July at his home in California. Williams didn’t start acting until his 30s, after working as a postal worker and a corrections officer before moving to Los Angeles in 1968.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Before finding fame, Hal Williams held multiple jobs to support himself. He worked as a postal worker and a corrections officer, never imagining he would become a television icon. It wasn’t until he relocated to Los Angeles that he pursued acting, eventually landing his breakout role.

Iconic Role on Sanford and Son

Williams was most widely recognized for playing Officer “Smitty” Smith in 22 episodes of Sanford and Son, a sitcom based on the British series Steptoe and Son. The show was adapted by Norman Lear and aired from 1972 to 1977. During production, Williams continued working an overnight shift at the post office because he didn’t feel “financially able” to give up the job. “I used to go around to the high schools and theater groups and young people,” he said in an interview. “I used to tell them that if your aspirations include mansions and limousines and things like that, be prepared for a lot of rejection because you need to get a degree in something. Overnight sensations usually take 25 years.”

Role on 227 and Impact on Black Representation

Williams also played Lester Jenkins in 227, a sitcom that aired between 1985 and 1990. He starred alongside Marla Gibbs, Regina King, and Jackée Harry. “What a gentleman,” Harry wrote on Instagram after his death. “Hal always carried himself with grace, and he always had me laughing … He was also a stand-up guy who believed Black fathers on TV should be loving, present, and compassionate. He helped show America what that looked like.”

Film and Television Legacy

Williams’ film roles included Hardcore, Herbie Rides Again, Private Benjamin, The Rookie, and Guess Who. He reprised his role in Private Benjamin in a TV series based on the hit film. His small-screen roles also included The Waltons, The Sinbad Show, The Dukes of Hazzard, Knots Landing, Moesha, Hill Street Blues, and, most recently, the Kathy Bates-led remake of Matlock.

Comparison Table: Hal Williams' Most Notable TV Roles

Key Takeaways from Hal Williams' Life

• Hal Williams started acting in his 30s after working as a postal worker and corrections officer.
• He is best known for playing Officer “Smitty” Smith on Sanford and Son and Lester Jenkins on 227.
• Williams was a pioneer for positive Black father figures on television.
• He continued acting into his 90s, with a recent role in the Matlock remake.
• His advice to aspiring actors: pursue a degree and be prepared for rejection.

FAQ

Hal Williams leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances and a trailblazing portrayal of Black fatherhood on television. His career spanned over five decades, inspiring countless actors and viewers alike. “There’s a lot more Black companies now,” he said in 2022. “There are a lot more Black producers, writers and directors than they ever had.”

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