Sanford and Son Was Even More Interesting Behind The Scenes

Redd Foxx Walked Off

In the middle of taping episodes for the 1973-1974 season, Redd Foxx walked off the show because of a salary dispute. At the time, Foxx was earning $19,000 per episode, but argued the show’s high ratings justified more. As a result, Fred Sanford was written out of the rest of the season.

Fred’s absence was explained by him attending a cousin’s funeral. His friend Grady (Whitman Mayo) was left in charge. NBC sued Foxx saying he violated his contract by walking out. As part of the settlement, Foxx returned to the show. Despite airing in the Friday night death slot, the show managed to peak at #2 in the ratings.

The Fate of the Salvage Truck

The famous Sanford and Son Salvage truck was a 1951 Ford F1. For a while Red Foxx kept the truck at his home after the series ended, but returned it to NBC for the spin-off Sanford. The truck was later purchased at an auction by bill Milks, and then Donald Dimmitt of Dimmitt’s Salvage in Indiana purchased it in 1987 for $3500.

The car was later purchased by Jeff Canter, the owner of BlueLine Classics, a car dealership in Ohio. It has been preserved by BlueLine Classics and is proudly displayed in the showroom as well as at car shows.