Hal Williams, known for roles on sitcoms 'Sanford and Son' and '227,' dies at 91

Hal Williams, the actor best known for his roles on the sitcoms 227 and Sanford and Son, has died at the age of 91. He passed away on Wednesday at his home in Rancho Mirage, California.

Williams built a career that spanned five decades in television and film. He earned recognition for his work as Lester Jenkins on 227 and as Officer Smitty Smith on Sanford and Son. His presence on screen was a consistent part of the industry for years.

Beyond his iconic sitcom roles, Williams appeared in numerous other television programs such as The Jeffersons, Magnum, P.I., and The Waltons. He also took on film roles, including work alongside Clint Eastwood in The Rookie and Goldie Hawn in Private Benjamin. His most recent television appearance occurred in 2025 on Matlock.

No details regarding the cause of his death were disclosed. His work remains a part of television history for many viewers who watched his characters across the decades.