They REFUSED To Honor Redd Foxx After He Died: Here’s Why!

Redd Foxx, a comedy legend and star of the groundbreaking sitcom *Sanford and Son*, was a cultural icon who reshaped American television. Premiering in 1972 on NBC, the show was a pioneer, centering a Black father-son duo in prime time with humor and heart.

Foxx, as the sharp-tongued Fred Sanford, and Demond Wilson, as his exasperated son Lamont, created undeniable chemistry that made the series a ratings juggernaut. Yet, behind the laughter, Foxx’s life unraveled into a tragic tale of financial ruin and personal struggles, culminating in a lonely end where even Hollywood turned its back.

When Foxx died of a heart attack on October 11, 1991, while rehearsing for *The Royal Family*, the industry’s response was cold. Shockingly, his co-star Demond Wilson refused to attend his funeral, a decision rooted in a fractured relationship. Wilson later revealed in interviews a lack of sympathy for Foxx, blaming him for self-inflicted financial woes.

Despite earning millions—$25,000 per episode of *Sanford and Son* (about $140,000 today) and 25% of producers’ profits—Foxx died with a net worth of negative $3.5 million. He ignored taxes for years, leading to IRS seizures of his Las Vegas home, cars, and even a cherished watch from Elvis Presley in 1989. Wilson painted a heartbreaking image of Foxx sitting outside his repossessed home on a box, hoping for help that never came.

Foxx’s personal life compounded his troubles. Married four times, each divorce drained his finances. His second marriage to Betty Jean Harris ended after 18 years with a messy split, costing him $150,000 (about $1 million today) and monthly support. His third marriage to Joi Yun Chi Chung resulted in a $300,000 settlement, and though his fourth wife, Ka Ho Cho, stayed loyal through his struggles, the damage was done.

Foxx admitted his recklessness, advising young comedians to “save your money,” a lesson he learned too late after lavish spending and generosity left him broke.

Behind the scenes of *Sanford and Son*, Foxx fought for better pay and treatment, leading to clashes with producers. A 1974 standoff resulted in a $10 million lawsuit from Tandem Productions when he refused to tape, demanding higher compensation and profit shares. Though he eventually won concessions, the stress took a toll. A 1980 reboot, *Sanford*, flopped without Wilson, who declined to return, further dimming Foxx’s career.

Even in death, disrespect followed. Co-star Della Reese recounted producers’ insensitivity on the day he collapsed, focusing on script changes rather than his loss. Despite opening doors for comedians like Richard Pryor and Eddie Murphy, Foxx’s final moments lacked the honor he deserved. Yet, his legacy endures—his humor and influence untouchable, even if his life ended in tragedy.