‘Sanford and Son’ star actor dead at 91: ‘We lost another legend’

Hal Williams, the actor best known for his role as Officer Smitty on the television series Sanford and Son, has died at age 91. His agent, ZNA Portlock Houston, confirmed that Williams passed away at his home in Rancho Mirage, California, due to natural causes.

Williams had recently traveled to Ohio for a reunion with his former co-star Howard Platt. Shortly after returning home, he experienced fatigue, which preceded his passing. His career spanned decades, leaving a mark on viewers through multiple iconic television programs.

He joined the cast of Sanford and Son in 1972 and remained a familiar face on the show through 1976. Beyond that success, he played Harley Foster on The Waltons and later appeared as Lester Jenkins on the show 227 between 1985 and 1990. His resume included appearances on programs such as Gunsmoke, The Jeffersons, and Magnum P.I.

Williams also worked in film, with his final credited performance in the 2012 production Flight. He is remembered by colleagues and fans for his professional contributions and the impact he made on television history.