Hal Williams, Beloved Actor from ‘227’ and ‘Sanford and Son,’ Passes Away at 91
Hal Williams, renowned for his roles as Officer Smitty on Sanford and Son and as Lester Jenkins on 227, has passed away at the age of 91. He died from natural causes on Wednesday morning at his residence in Rancho Mirage, California, as confirmed by his manager, Zna Portlock Houston. Williams had been experiencing health issues in recent months.
A Versatile Career in Television and Film
Born on December 14, 1934, in Columbus, Ohio, Williams began his career in acting after working as a juvenile correctional officer and in child family services. In 1968, he decided to pursue acting full-time, stating that he wanted to try something new before his time came. He drove to California in just 48 hours to follow his passion.
Williams gained significant recognition in 1972 when he was cast as Officer Smith on Sanford and Son, a series created by Norman Lear. The show, which starred Redd Foxx and Demond Wilson, featured Williams in a recurring role as the friendly neighborhood cop. He appeared in six episodes alongside Officer “Swanny” Swanhauser and later partnered with Officer “Hoppy” Hopkins, played by Howard Platt.
His portrayal of Smitty resonated with audiences, particularly due to the character’s humorous interactions with the main cast. Williams noted that the writers often encouraged them to incorporate slang, leading to memorable phrases that became part of the show’s charm.
Notable Roles and Contributions
In addition to his work on Sanford and Son, Williams starred as Lester Jenkins on the NBC sitcom 227, which aired from 1985 to 1990. The show, set in a Washington, D.C. apartment building, featured Williams as a supportive husband to Mary Jenkins, played by Marla Gibbs. The series was well-received, earning two Emmy nominations during its run.
Williams also appeared in the 1980 film Private Benjamin, directed by Howard Zieff, where he played a tough yet sympathetic drill sergeant. He reprised this role in the subsequent CBS sitcom adaptation that aired from 1981 to 1983.
His television credits extended to shows like The Sinbad Show, where he played Sinbad’s father, Rudy, and The Waltons, where he portrayed Harley Foster, a character who escaped wrongful imprisonment. Williams’ versatility allowed him to navigate various genres, from comedy to drama.
A Legacy of Diverse Roles
Throughout his career, Williams worked consistently across multiple decades, appearing in episodes of notable series such as Good Times, Hill Street Blues, Magnum, P.I., Night Court, L.A. Law, and Parks and Recreation. He also featured in films like Hardcore (1979), The Rookie (1990), and Guess Who (2005).
Williams’ contributions to television and film have left a lasting impact, showcasing his ability to connect with audiences through humor and heartfelt performances. His work on 227 and Sanford and Son remains a significant part of television history.
Personal Life and Reflections
Williams was married and divorced twice and is survived by three children. He expressed gratitude for his career, stating, “I’ve been a straight man for a long time. It doesn’t bother me, because all I ever aspired to be was a working actor. I’ve been very lucky. Most of the shows I’ve been in have been hits.”
As reported by www.hollywoodreporter.com, Williams’ legacy will continue to resonate with fans of classic television.
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Published on 2026-07-16 12:26:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk