Hal Williams, Sanford and Son Actor, Dies at 91 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. The news has saddened fans of classic television, who remember him as a steady presence on screen.

Williams didn’t start acting until his 30s, after working as a postal worker and a corrections officer. He moved to Los Angeles in 1968 to pursue his dream. His perseverance paid off, earning him a place in TV history.

Hal Williams' 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 adapted by Norman Lear from the British series Steptoe and Son. The show aired from 1972 to 1977 and remains a cultural touchstone.

During production, Williams continued working an overnight shift at the post office because he didn’t feel “financially able” to give up the job. He once said, “I used to go around to the high schools and theater groups and young people. 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.”

His Role on 227 and Legacy

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. Harry wrote on Instagram, “What a gentleman. 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.”

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

Comparison of Hal Williams' Major TV Roles

Key Takeaways from Hal Williams' Life

• Williams started acting in his 30s after working as a postal worker and corrections officer.
• He played Officer Smitty on Sanford and Son and Lester Jenkins on 227.
• He advocated for positive Black father figures on television.
• His career spanned over five decades, including film and TV roles.
• He inspired young actors to pursue education and perseverance.

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