Hal Williams, best known as Officer Smitty on Sanford and Son, has passed away at 91. The actor died of natural causes at his Rancho Mirage home.
Williams breathed his last on July 15 at home in Rancho Mirage, California. His rep confirmed the details to TMZ, noting a quiet exit after decades in the spotlight.
Co-stars rushed to pay respects. Jackée Harry called him a gentleman who made her laugh and pushed her to own her star power. Holly Robinson Peete hailed him as a true television legend and even greater human being.
Before Hollywood, Williams worked as a postal worker and corrections officer. He drove to California in 48 hours chasing acting dreams and landed the iconic role after early gigs on The Waltons and S.W.A.T. His final screen time came on Matlock in 2025.
He leaves behind three children and a legacy of warm, grounded Black father figures on TV. What a run.
