Demond Wilson is a talented American actor and author, best known for his iconic role as Lamont Sanford in the classic NBC sitcom “Sanford and Son.” Wilson has made a lasting impact on the entertainment industry with his humor, wit, and heart.
From his early days growing up in Georgia to his fame in Hollywood, Wilson’s journey has been marked by his dedication to his craft and his unwavering passion for storytelling.
Profile
- Full name: Demond Wilson
- Date of birth: October 13, 1946
- Age: 78 years old
- Gender: Male
- Place of birth: Valdosta, Georgia, USA
- Nationality: American
- Profession: Actor, author
- Height: 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm)
- Parents: John Henry Wilson, Edna Connor Wilson
- Siblings: John Wilson and James Wilson
- Spouse: Cicely Johnston (married 1974-1980), Linda Wu (married 1983-present)
- Children: Melvin Desmond, Donnell Desmond, and Demond Jr.
- Relationship status: Married
- Net worth: $2 million
Early Life and Education
Demond Wilson, 78, was born on October 13, 1946, in Valdosta, Georgia. He grew up in a middle-class family with two brothers, John and James.
Wilson’s parents, John Henry and Edna Connor Wilson, instilled in him a strong sense of values and a love for the arts.
His former Army officer father was a strict disciplinarian who encouraged his sons to pursue their passions. Wilson’s mother, a homemaker, was a creative force in the family, often encouraging her sons to explore their artistic sides.
Growing up in Georgia, Wilson was exposed to the rich cultural heritage of the South. He attended local schools and developed a love for music, drama, and literature. Wilson’s early life was marked by curiosity and adventure, which would serve him well in his future career.
After high school, Wilson moved to New York City to pursue a career in acting, determined to make a name for himself in the competitive world of show business.
Personal Life
Demond Wilson has been married twice, first to Cicely Johnston from 1974 to 1980, with whom he had two sons, Melvin and Donnell.
His first marriage was marked by struggles with addiction and personal demons, which Wilson has spoken publicly about.
Despite the challenges, Wilson remained committed to his family and worked hard to provide for them.
In 1983, Wilson married Linda Wu, a writer and producer. The couple has a son, Demond Jr. Wilson credits his second wife with helping him overcome his personal struggles and find a sense of purpose and fulfillment. The couple has been married for over 39 years and is still going strong.
Throughout his personal life, Wilson has been open about his struggles with addiction and personal growth. He has used his experiences to inform his writing and acting work, often incorporating themes of redemption and self-discovery into his projects.
Career
Demond Wilson’s career in acting spans over five decades, with notable roles in TV shows such as “Sanford and Son,” “The New Odd Couple,” and “Me and the Kid.” He has also appeared in films and stage productions, showcasing his versatility as a performer.
Wilson’s breakthrough role came in 1972 when he was cast as Lamont Sanford, the son of Fred Sanford, played by Redd Foxx, in the classic NBC sitcom “Sanford and Son.”
The show was a huge success, running for six seasons and earning Wilson a Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actor.
In addition to his work on Sanford and Son, Wilson has appeared in several other TV shows and films, including The New Odd Couple, Me and the Kid, and Hammer, Slammer, and Slade. He has also worked extensively in theater, appearing in productions such as The Piano Lesson and Fences.
Wilson has turned his attention to writing in recent years, penning several books, including “Second Banana: The Bittersweet Memoirs of the Sanford and Son Years,” which offers a behind-the-scenes look at his time on the iconic sitcom.
His signature wit and humor mark Wilson’s writing, and his books have been praised for their honesty and insight.
Controversy
Demond Wilson has been open about his struggles with addiction and personal demons, which he has spoken publicly about. In the 1970s, Wilson struggled with drug addiction, which affected his personal and professional life.
He has spoken candidly about his experiences, using his platform to raise awareness and support for those struggling with addiction.
In addition to his struggles, Wilson has been involved in some professional controversies. In the 1980s, he was involved in a highly publicized feud with his “Sanford and Son” co-star, Redd Foxx.
The two actors had a falling out, which led to a very public and heated exchange in the press. The feud ended, and the two actors made amends before Foxx died in 1991.
Despite these controversies, Wilson has maintained a positive reputation in the entertainment industry. He is widely respected for his talent, work ethic, and dedication to his craft.
His commitment to raising awareness and supporting important social causes has earned him a reputation as a compassionate and caring.
Social Media
- Instagram: @demondwilson
- Twitter: @DemondWilson
Filmography
- Sanford and Son
- The New Odd Couple
- Me and the Kid
- Hammer, Slammer, and Slade
Books
- Second Banana: The Bittersweet Memoirs of the Sanford and Son Years (2016)
- Demond Wilson’s Sanford and Son: The Official Guide (2018)
Awards
- NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series
Net Worth
Demond Wilson’s net worth is estimated to be around $2 million, earned through his successful acting and writing career.
