What Caused Grady Demond Wilson's Death At 79? Know All About 'Stanford And Son' Actor's Family

We just entered 2026 a few weeks ago, but the new year has already brought a string of heartbreaking losses in Hollywood. The entertainment world has lost some of its most shining stars, such as Catherine O'Hara. But before fans could process the loss, the TV industry lost another gem in Grady Demond Wilson. The iconic actor, best known for his sitcom Sanford and Son, has passed away at 79, yet there is confusion about what led to his death. Here's what we know.

What caused Grady Demond Wilson's death? 

Grady Demond Wilson's son, Demond Wilson Jr confirmed his father's death. The latter told TMZ that the veteran actor was pronounced dead at his home in Palm Springs, California, in the morning of January 30, 2026. When the news went viral on social media, longtime fans sent their tributes to the man who helped shape one of TV's most memorable father-son duos. According to Demond Wilson Jr, his father passed away after facing complications related to a prolonged battle with cancer.

Although his illness has been revealed in the media, Demond Wilson Jr did not mention the specific type of cancer suffered by his father. Instead, his family confirmed that the veteran actor was quietly fighting the condition in recent months. Meanwhile, fans who grew up watching the late actor recalled how they used to watch late-night reruns of Sanford and Son, where his calm and witty performance set him apart. The show aired from 1972 to 1997 on NBC and challenged major racial stereotypes with humour. Sharing his feelings, his son said:

"I loved him. He was a great man." 

Grady Demond Wilson had a big family

Apart from his stellar on-screen presence, Grady Demond Wilson's personal life was equally meaningful, with many people who loved him. He is survived by his wife, former model Cicely Johnston, whom he married in 1974. The couple has six children and has maintained a relatively private family life away from Hollywood's limelight. Grady Demond Wilson was deeply devoted to his family and often spoke about the significance of faith and community in his later years.

More about Grady Demond Wilson

Grady Demond Wilson was also a decorated Vietnam War veteran who served in the U.S. Army's 4th Infantry Division and received the Purple Heart. Later, in the '80s, Grady stepped back from mainstream entertainment to become an ordained Christian minister. He founded the Restoration House of America, dedicated to helping former inmates reintegrate into society. Grady had also authored multiple faith-based books and a memoir titled Second Banana: The Bittersweet Memories of the Sanford & Son Years. At the same time, he worked on several other significant entertainment projects, including Baby… I'm Back! The New Odd Couple, Me and the Kid and his last appearance in Eleanor's Bench.

We send our heartfelt condolences to Grady Demond Wilson and his family amid the difficult time. Rest in peace, Grady Demond Wilson. 

Next Read: Catherine O'Hara's 2026 Net Worth Amid Her Death, How Much The 'Home Alone' Icon Earned In 50 Years

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