Jon Elroy Sanford, better known as Redd Foxx, passed away on October 11, 1991, at the age of 68. Celebrated for his groundbreaking comedy and starring role on the 1970s sitcom Sanford and Son, Foxx remains an enduring icon in American entertainment.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on December 9, 1922, Foxx earned his nickname due to his reddish hair and complexion, and his surname was inspired by baseball star Jimmie Foxx. In his early years, he worked alongside notable figures like Malcolm Little—later known as Malcolm X—who referred to Foxx as “Chicago Red, the funniest dishwasher on this earth.”
Foxx began performing raunchy nightclub acts in the 1950s and 1960s, gaining fame as the “King of the Party Records.” Over his career, he performed on more than 50 comedy records, known for their explicit humor and bold content.
Rise to Fame
Redd Foxx achieved mainstream fame with his role as Fred G. Sanford in Sanford and Son, where he starred alongside Demond Wilson, who played his son Lamont. The show, which centered on the comedic situations surrounding the father-son duo and their junk/salvage business, was notable for its racial humor and exploration of overt prejudices, redefining the black situation comedy genre.
Foxx also appeared in other television series, including Sanford, The Redd Foxx Show, and The Royal Family, and featured in films such as All the Fine Young Cannibals (1960) and Harlem Nights (1989).
Personal Life and Legacy
Foxx’s influence extended beyond television and film. His bold comedy and unapologetic style opened doors for future generations of comedians, particularly in challenging racial and societal norms through humor. He remains celebrated for his unique ability to blend sharp wit, physical comedy, and outspoken social commentary.
Death and Final Moments
On October 11, 1991, while on a break from rehearsals for The Royal Family, Foxx suffered a heart attack on set. In a moment tinged with tragic irony—given his 1970s TV character’s penchant for faking heart attacks—cast members initially thought he was joking. Foxx repeatedly called for his wife as he fell to the floor. He was transported to Queen Of Angels Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center, where he passed away that evening at the age of 68.
Redd Foxx was laid to rest in Las Vegas at Palm Valley View Memorial Park, leaving behind a legacy of humor, trailblazing performances, and cultural impact.
Closing Line
Redd Foxx’s influence on comedy and television endures decades after his passing, and his fearless approach to humor continues to inspire performers and audiences around the world.
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