Lynn Hamilton, ‘Sanford and Son’ Actress, Dies at 95, 48 Years After Beloved Sitcom Role

Lynn Hamilton, Beloved ‘Sanford and Son’ Actress, Dies at 95

[Image: Lynn Hamilton in a 2011 photo, smiling warmly.]
Caption: Lynn Hamilton, known for her role as Donna Harris on Sanford and Son, passed away at 95 on June 19, 2024.

Lynn Hamilton, celebrated for her role as Donna Harris on the 1970s sitcom Sanford and Son, died of natural causes on June 19 at age 95. Surrounded by loved ones, the actress left behind a legacy spanning over five decades in film, TV, and theater. Her former manager, Rev. Calvin Carson, confirmed her passing in an Instagram tribute, calling her life “extraordinary” and her career “indelible.”

A Storied Career
Hamilton began her career in the late 1950s, balancing stage and screen. She starred in Broadway productions and worked with the New York Shakespeare Festival before transitioning to TV. Her early roles included guest appearances on Gunsmoke, Hawaii Five-O, and The Rockford Files. However, her breakthrough came in 1972 as Donna Harris, Fred Sanford’s steadfast love interest on Sanford and Son. Over 22 episodes, her character became a fan favorite, blending wit and warmth opposite Redd Foxx’s iconic Fred.

[Image: Hamilton (middle) alongside Redd Foxx and Demond Wilson on Sanford and Son.]
Caption: Hamilton’s role as Donna Harris made her a household name during the show’s 1972–1977 run.

From 1973–1981, she also portrayed Verdie Foster on The Waltons, a compassionate midwife who became a recurring figure in Walton’s Mountain. Carson highlighted her “captivating performances” in projects like Roots: The Next Generation and stage plays such as The Bert Williams Story, which she co-produced with her husband, Frank S. Jenkins. “Their partnership was a shining example of creativity and dedication,” Carson noted.

Fans Mourn a Legend
News of her death sparked an outpouring of tributes online. Fans recalled her memorable roles, with one tweeting, “She made an impact in just a few episodes—proof of her talent.” Another praised her ability to “keep Fred in check” on Sanford and Son, while others celebrated her work on The Waltons.

[Image: Hamilton in a 1973 headshot, exuding grace.]
Caption: Hamilton’s versatility earned her roles in dramas, comedies, and historical epics.

Early Life and Legacy
Born in Yazoo City, Mississippi, in 1930, Hamilton moved to Chicago as a child. She studied acting at Bloom High School and the Goodman Theatre, laying the groundwork for her stage career. After minor film roles in the 1950s–60s, she became a TV staple, balancing gritty Westerns like Gunsmoke with heartfelt family dramas.

[Image: Hamilton in a scene from The Rockford Files (1976).]
Caption: Hamilton’s career included guest spots on iconic 1970s series like The Rockford Files.

Carson emphasized that her legacy would “inspire future generations,” a sentiment echoed by fans worldwide. Hamilton’s ability to infuse depth into every role, whether on stage or screen, cemented her as a trailblazer for Black actresses in Hollywood.

She is survived by her family and a body of work that continues to resonate. As Carson aptly stated, her passing marks “the end of an era,” but her contributions to entertainment remain timeless.

Rest in peace, Lynn Hamilton (1930–2024).

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