Sanford and Son Was Even More Interesting Behind The Scenes

Demond and Redd: First Blacks on Lasting Sitcom

Sanford & Son was a cultural staple within the African-American community. “Redd and I were making history back in those days. We were the first blacks to be on television in that capacity and we opened the door for all those other shows that came after us,” said Demond.

Later successes included The Cosby Show and Black-ish. The biggest complaint from African-American actors from the late 70s through late 80s was the fact that their roles were short-lived. Doomed to fail, Sanford & Son defied the odds, topped the charts in popularity and sailed through six amazing seasons.