Hal Williams, Beloved ‘Sanford and Son’ and ‘227’ Star, Dies at 91
The entertainment world is mourning the loss of veteran actor Hal Williams, who passed away from natural causes on July 15, 2026, at his home in Rancho Mirage, California. He was 91 years old.
Born Halroy Candis Williams on December 14, 1934, in Columbus, Ohio, his career spanned nearly six decades. Williams was a fixture of American television, most notably recognized for his role as Officer “Smitty” Smith on the classic sitcom Sanford and Son (1972–1977). Alongside Howard Platt’s Officer “Hoppy” Hopkins, Williams brought a perfect comedic balance to the screen, often acting as the "translator" for Hoppy’s complex police jargon.
In the 1980s, Williams captured hearts again as Lester Jenkins on 227. As the steady, hardworking husband to Marla Gibbs’ Mary Jenkins and father to Regina King’s Brenda, he became a symbol of the strong, relatable Black father figure in American households.
Beyond these iconic roles, Williams' versatility shone in The Waltons as Harley Foster and in films like Private Benjamin, Guess Who, and the 2012 drama Flight. His expansive resume included everything from Gunsmoke and Good Times to a recent appearance in the Matlock remake.
Just recently, Williams returned to his Ohio roots for a touching reunion with his former castmate Howard Platt, a testament to the lifelong bonds he built in the industry. He is survived by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Hal Williams’ legacy is one of talent, humor, and a heart that resonated across generations. He will be deeply missed by fans and the digital media community alike.
Sources:
Variety, TMZ, UPI.
