Net Worth Ranker
What Is Demond Wilson’s Net Worth?
Grady Demond Wilson, an American actor, author, and pastor, has accumulated a net worth of $2.5 million. This valuation reflects his diverse career spanning television, film, and ministry.
Demond Wilson’s Career Highlights and Earnings
Wilson’s most notable role was as Lamont Sanford on the NBC sitcom “Sanford and Son,” where he appeared in 135 of the show’s 136 episodes from 1972 to 1977. His partnership with Redd Foxx significantly boosted his profile in the entertainment industry.
In 1977, following “Sanford and Son,” Wilson secured a $1 million contract with CBS to star in “Baby… I’m Back!” Although the show only lasted for one season consisting of 13 episodes, this contract marked a significant point in Wilson’s career, equivalent to approximately $5 million in today’s dollars. His role as Oscar Madison in “The New Odd Couple” from 1982 to 1983 further solidified his presence on television.
Beyond television, Wilson’s film credits include appearances in “Dealing: Or the Berkeley-to-Boston Forty-Brick Lost-Bag Blues,” “Full Moon High,” “Me and the Kid,” and “Hammerlock.” These roles, while not as prominent as his television work, contributed to his overall earnings and net worth.
Wilson’s career also encompasses his work as an author and pastor. He has written several Christian books and a memoir titled “Second Banana: The Bittersweet Memoirs of the Sanford & Son Years,” published in 2009. Additionally, he founded Restoration House, a charity, in 1995. His appearances on Christian TV programs on the Trinity Broadcasting Network highlight his commitment to ministry.
The earnings of Redd Foxx during his time on “Sanford and Son” provide a relevant comparison. Initially, Foxx earned $19,000 per episode, which translates to about $130,000 per episode today. This amounted to approximately $500,000 per year, or $3.5 million in today’s dollars. A salary dispute led to Foxx leaving the show temporarily, but he returned with an increased salary of $25,000 per episode and a 25% cut of the producers’ net profits, making him the highest-paid actor on television at the time. While these figures pertain to Foxx, they illustrate the financial scale of “Sanford and Son” and its stars during that era.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Grady Demond Wilson was born on October 13, 1946, in Valdosta, Georgia. At the age of six, he survived a ruptured appendix, which led him to vow to serve God in a ministry role later in life. Wilson began performing at a young age, dancing in a Broadway show at four and participating in a production at the Apollo Theater at 12.
Wilson served in the US Army from 1966 to 1968. He was wounded during his service and returned home as a decorated veteran. Following his military service, he appeared in off-Broadway shows and made guest appearances on TV shows such as “All in the Family” and “Mission: Impossible.” These early roles laid the groundwork for his success in “Sanford and Son.”
“Sanford and Son”: The Defining Role
In 1972, Wilson landed the role of Lamont Sanford in “Sanford and Son,” which became a defining moment in his career. The series, co-starring Redd Foxx as Fred G. Sanford, was set in the Watts neighborhood of Los Angeles. The show was known for its edgy racial humor, running gags, and catchphrases. It was also praised for its positive portrayal of African-Americans.
“Sanford and Son” was a ratings success, winning three Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Comedy Series in 1973. It was also nominated for three Golden Globe Awards. The show ran for 136 episodes over six seasons and has remained popular in syndication.
Post-“Sanford and Son” Projects
Following the cancellation of “Sanford and Son,” Wilson starred in “Baby… I’m Back!” on CBS. Although the series was short-lived, it showcased Wilson’s continued appeal to television audiences. From 1982 to 1983, he starred as Oscar Madison in “The New Odd Couple,” further demonstrating his versatility as an actor.
Wilson also had a recurring role as Kenneth Miles in the series “Girlfriends” from 2004 to 2005. His film appearances include roles in “Dealing: Or the Berkeley-to-Boston Forty-Brick Lost-Bag Blues,” “Full Moon High,” “Me and the Kid,” and “Hammerlock.” These projects added to his income and contributed to his overall net worth.
Ministry and Writing Career
Staying true to his childhood promise, Demond Wilson became an ordained minister. He founded Restoration House in 1995 and has made numerous appearances on Christian TV programs on the Trinity Broadcasting Network. His commitment to ministry is a significant part of his life and career.
Wilson has also authored several books, including Christian books, children’s books, and his memoir, “Second Banana: The Bittersweet Memoirs of the Sanford & Son Years,” published in 2009. These writing endeavors have contributed to his income and provided him with additional avenues for creative expression.
Personal Life
Demond Wilson married former model Cicely Johnston in May 1974. Together, they have six children. His family life is an integral part of his identity and has influenced his career choices and personal values.
Other Ventures and Assets
While specific details regarding Wilson’s real estate holdings, private planes, or luxury cars are not publicly available, it is common for individuals with a net worth of $2.5 million to have investments in real estate, stocks, and other assets. These investments typically form a significant portion of their net worth.
Moreover, individuals in the entertainment industry often have endorsement deals, licensing agreements, and other business ventures that contribute to their overall income. However, specific details about Wilson’s ventures are not readily accessible.
Demond Wilson’s Enduring Legacy
Demond Wilson’s net worth of $2.5 million is a testament to his successful career as an actor, author, and pastor. His role as Lamont Sanford in “Sanford and Son” remains his most iconic achievement, but his contributions to television, film, and ministry have solidified his place in American culture.
