Demond Wilson: From San Quentin to Stardom

Demond Wilson was a name synonymous with 1970s television comedy, particularly with his starring role as Willie, the lovable but dim-witted neighbor, on the NBC sitcom "Sanford and Son." With his rapid-fire wit, smooth delivery, and unmistakable charm, Wilson quickly became a household name, entertaining audiences with his humorous take on life in a run-down Detroit neighborhood.

The son of a veteran, Wilson grew up in the San Quentin State Prison, where his father was serving a life sentence. Despite the challenging circumstances, Wilson found solace in comedy, using humor as a coping mechanism to deal with the hardships of his childhood. After his release from prison, Wilson pursued a career in acting, eventually landing the iconic role of Willie on "Sanford and Son."

As the show's popularity soared, so did Wilson's personal life. He married actress Roxie Roker, who played his mother-in-law, Esther Anderson, on the show. The couple had one son, Jason, but their marriage ended in divorce in 1977. Wilson went on to star in several other TV shows and films, including "The Cosby Show" and "What's Up, Doc?" However, he struggled to replicate the success of "Sanford and Son," and his career began to stall in the 1980s.

Demond Wilson's Post-Sanford and Son Career

Despite his success on "Sanford and Son," Wilson's post-show career was marked by a series of ups and downs. He appeared in several TV shows, including "The Bill Cosby Show" and "The Jeffersons," but struggled to find his footing in the changing television landscape.

TV Shows and Films of the 1980s

Wilson's film career also took a hit in the 1980s, with appearances in movies such as "Cool As Ice" and "Death Wish 3." However, these roles were often forgettable, and Wilson's star began to fade.

Some of Wilson's Notable Roles

• "Sanford and Son" (1972-1978)
• "The Bill Cosby Show" (1977-1978)
• "The Jeffersons" (1975-1979)
• "What's Up, Doc?" (1972)
• "Death Wish 3" (1985)
• "Cool As Ice" (1986)

Demond Wilson's Personal Life

In addition to his struggles with his career, Wilson's personal life was also marked by turmoil. He married actress Barbara McNair in 1973, but the couple divorced in 1976. Wilson also had a long-term relationship with actress Pearl Bailey, but the two never married.

Wilson's Health Issues

In the 1990s, Wilson began to struggle with health issues, including high blood pressure and heart problems. He was hospitalized several times for various ailments, including pneumonia and kidney failure.

Some of Wilson's Health Issues

• High blood pressure
• Heart problems
• Pneumonia
• Kidney failure

Demond Wilson's Comeback

In recent years, Wilson has attempted to revive his career, appearing in several stage productions and TV shows. He also made a cameo appearance in the 2006 TV movie "Three Kings," playing the role of a pimp.

Wilson's Stage Career

Wilson has had a successful stage career, appearing in productions such as "A Raisin in the Sun" and "The Glass Menagerie." He has also performed in several one-man shows, showcasing his talents as a comedian and actor.

Some of Wilson's Notable Stage Roles

• "A Raisin in the Sun" (2001)
• "The Glass Menagerie" (2002)
• "One-Man Show" (2005)

Where Is Demond Wilson Today

Despite his struggles with his career and personal life, Wilson remains a beloved figure in American comedy. He has been praised for his contributions to the world of television, and his influence can still be seen in many modern comedians.

Wilson's Legacy

Wilson's legacy is that of a talented comedian and actor who helped to bring laughter and joy to audiences in the 1970s. His impact on television is immeasurable, and his influence can still be seen in many modern comedians.

Some of Wilson's Most Iconic Moments

• "Aunt Esther's funeral" from "Sanford and Son" (1972)
• "Willie's infamous truck" from "Sanford and Son" (1972)
• "Willie's wrestling match" from "The Bill Cosby Show" (1977)

Demond Wilson's Final Years

In recent years, Wilson has been struggling with his health, and his condition has taken a toll on his career. Despite his efforts to revive his career, Wilson has been largely absent from the public eye.

Wilson's Health Issues

Wilson's health issues have made it difficult for him to perform, and he has been forced to cancel several shows in recent years. Despite his struggles, Wilson remains a beloved figure in American comedy, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of comedians and actors.

Some of Wilson's Recent Health Issues

• High blood pressure
• Heart problems
• Arthritis

Wilson's story is a reminder that even the brightest stars can experience setbacks and struggles. Despite his challenges, Wilson remains a beloved figure in American comedy, and his legacy continues to inspire and entertain audiences to this day.