Hal Williams, actor best known for Sanford and Son and 227, dies at 91

Hal Williams, an actor celebrated for his memorable television performances, has passed away at the age of 91. His representative confirmed his death on July 15 at his California home.

Williams embarked on his acting journey later in life, pursuing a career in entertainment after working as a postal worker and a corrections officer. He moved to Los Angeles in 1968 and began building his acting resume. He gained widespread recognition for his role as Officer “Smitty” Smith in the popular sitcom 'Sanford and Son,' appearing in 22 episodes. During the show's run, Williams continued his overnight postal shift, citing financial prudence as his reason for not yet fully committing to acting.

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What a gentleman. Hal always carried himself with grace, and he always had me laughing … He was also a stand-up guy who believed Black fathers on TV should be loving, present, and compassionate. He helped show America what that looked like.

Beyond 'Sanford and Son,' Williams also starred as Lester Jenkins in the sitcom '227,' which aired from 1985 to 1990. He shared the screen with notable actors like Regina King and Jackée Harry. Harry fondly remembered Williams as a gentleman who exuded grace and humor, emphasizing his commitment to portraying Black fathers as loving and compassionate figures on television. Williams himself noted the progress in Black representation within the entertainment industry, stating in 2022 that more opportunities existed for Black producers, writers, and directors than ever before.

Williams' filmography includes roles in 'Hardcore,' 'Herbie Rides Again,' 'Private Benjamin,' 'The Rookie,' and 'Guess Who.' He also reprised his role from 'Private Benjamin' in a television series adaptation. His television credits extended to shows such as 'The Waltons,' 'The Sinbad Show,' 'The Dukes of Hazzard,' 'Knots Landing,' 'Moesha,' 'Hill Street Blues,' and most recently, the remake of 'Matlock.'

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There’s a lot more Black companies now. There are a lot more Black producers, writers and directors than they ever were before. They’re all young. But we opened the doors.