description Redd Foxx Overview
Redd Foxx (1922–1991), born John Elroy Sanford in St. Louis, Missouri, was an American comedian and actor who starred as Fred Sanford on the NBC sitcom Sanford and Son (1972–1977). Before mainstream television success, Foxx performed stand-up on the Chitlin' Circuit and recorded numerous adult-oriented comedy albums known as 'party records.' His raw, uncensored style influenced generations of stand-up comedians, and he is widely regarded as a trailblazer for Black performers in comedy.
help Redd Foxx FAQ
Why was Redd Foxx called the King of the Party Records?
Foxx recorded numerous adult-oriented comedy albums intended for private listening rather than mainstream radio. Albums such as Laff of the Party helped build his reputation years before network television made him Fred Sanford.
What role did Redd Foxx play on Sanford and Son?
He played Fred G. Sanford, a sharp-tongued Los Angeles junk dealer living with his son Lamont. The NBC series ran from 1972 to 1977 and was adapted from the British sitcom Steptoe and Son.
Why did Redd Foxx leave Sanford and Son?
Foxx left amid contractual and salary disputes and moved to ABC for a variety show. NBC continued briefly with the related series Sanford Arms, but it did not reproduce the original show's success.
Did Redd Foxx die while filming a television show?
Yes. He suffered a fatal heart attack in 1991 while rehearsing on the set of the CBS sitcom The Royal Family. Cast members initially thought his collapse was an imitation of Fred Sanford's recurring fake-heart-attack routine.
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