Hal Williams, Beloved ‘Sanford and Son’ and ‘227’ Star, Dies at 91

LOS ANGELES (BAMM Network) — Hal Williams, the veteran actor whose memorable performances on Sanford and Son and 227 made him a familiar face to generations of television viewers, has died. He was 91.

Hal Williams; Williams with Howard Platt on 'Sanford And Son'Courtesy/Everett Collection

Williams died Wednesday at his home in Rancho Mirage, California, according to his manager, Zina Portlock Houston. A cause of death was not immediately released, though his manager said the actor had been experiencing health issues in recent years.

Born Halroy Candis Williams in Columbus, Ohio, Williams did not begin acting until his 30s after working as a corrections officer, social worker and postal employee. His breakthrough came in 1972 when he was cast as Officer "Smitty" Smith, the good-natured police officer and longtime friend of Fred Sanford on NBC's Sanford and Son. The role helped establish

Williams as one of television's most recognizable character actors.

Williams later became a household name portraying Lester Jenkins, the devoted husband of Mary Jenkins, played by Marla Gibbs, on the hit sitcom 227. Airing from 1985 to 1990, the series showcased a positive image of Black family life and introduced audiences to future stars including Regina King and Jackée Harry.

Photo by Vinnie Zuffante/Getty Images

Over a career spanning more than five decades, Williams appeared in dozens of television series and films, including The Waltons, Private Benjamin, Good Times, Moesha, The Sinbad Show, Parks and Recreation, Flight, Guess Who and A Black Lady Sketch Show. His versatility allowed him to move seamlessly between comedy and drama while earning a reputation as one of Hollywood's most dependable supporting actors.

Although audiences often associated him with comedy, Williams once said he considered himself a dramatic actor who happened to find success making people laugh. His understated performances frequently served as the emotional anchor in ensemble casts, allowing other characters' larger personalities to shine.

Following news of his death, tributes poured in from colleagues and fans celebrating Williams' contributions to television and his role in helping expand opportunities for Black actors during a transformative era in the entertainment industry. Actress Jackée Harry remembered him as "a gentleman" who cared deeply about portraying Black fathers in a positive light on television.

Williams is survived by his children and grandchildren.

His passing marks the loss of another beloved figure from the golden age of Black television, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate with audiences who grew up watching some of the medium's most influential sitcoms.