Redd Foxx Age: A Look Back At A Comedy Legend's Years
When we think about the great comedians who shaped entertainment, the name Redd Foxx usually comes up. His unique style, quick wit, and unforgettable characters, especially Fred Sanford, really made a mark. People often wonder about his life, his journey, and, very often, his age at different points. It's a natural curiosity, that, to know how old someone was when they did amazing things or when their time came.
Understanding Redd Foxx's age helps us place his contributions within the bigger picture of comedy history. It lets us see how his experiences over the years might have shaped his performances and the characters he brought to life. He was, in some respects, a true master of making people laugh, and his life story is quite something.
This article will look closely at the life of Redd Foxx, focusing on his age through different stages of his remarkable career. We will explore his beginnings, his rise to fame, and his lasting impact, all while keeping his life span in mind. You will find out just how old he was during his most memorable moments, and, well, how old he was when he passed away.
Table of Contents
- Biography: The Life of a Comedic Icon
- Redd Foxx's Age at Key Moments
- Lasting Legacy and Influence
- Frequently Asked Questions About Redd Foxx's Age
- Conclusion
Biography: The Life of a Comedic Icon
John Elroy Sanford, better known to the world as Redd Foxx, had a life that was, in a way, as dramatic and funny as his performances. He came from humble beginnings, and through sheer talent and a lot of hard work, he became one of the most recognized faces in comedy. His journey from a young man trying to make a living to a beloved television star is quite compelling.
Personal Details and Bio Data
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | John Elroy Sanford |
| Known As | Redd Foxx |
| Date of Birth | December 9, 1922 |
| Place of Birth | St. Louis, Missouri, U.S. |
| Date of Death | October 11, 1991 |
| Place of Death | Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
| Age at Death | 68 years old |
| Occupation | Comedian, Actor |
| Years Active | 1939–1991 |
| Spouses | Evelyn Killebrew (m. 1948; div. 1951), Betty Jean Harris (m. 1956; div. 1974), Yun Chi Chung (m. 1976; div. 1981), Ka Ho Cho (m. 1991) |
| Children | 1 (adopted) |
Early Years and the Start of a Career
Redd Foxx was born in St. Louis, Missouri, on December 9, 1922. His childhood was, you know, not easy. He grew up in Chicago during the Great Depression. At a very young age, he had to learn to make his own way. By the time he was a teenager, he was already performing, doing comedy routines and singing in nightclubs. He was, like, just 16 or 17 years old when he started making people laugh on stage.
He moved to New York City when he was, arguably, around 19 or 20 years old. There, he worked with a friend, Malcolm "Detroit Red" Little, who later became Malcolm X. They were, sort of, washing dishes and doing whatever they could to get by, while also trying to break into the entertainment scene. This period, it's almost, really shaped his outlook and his comedy, giving him a grounded, relatable perspective that audiences would later adore.
His early years were, basically, a struggle. He performed in what were called "chittlin' circuit" clubs, places where Black entertainers could perform during a time of segregation. These experiences, very truly, honed his skills. He learned to connect with an audience, to read a room, and to deliver jokes with perfect timing. It was, you know, a tough but important training ground for him.
Stand-Up Success and Breaking Through
Redd Foxx's stand-up career really took off in the 1950s and 1960s. He became known for his "blue" humor, which meant it was often adult-themed and a bit risqué for the time. He released many comedy albums, and these records were, actually, very popular. People loved his raw, honest style, and how he wasn't afraid to talk about everyday life in a way that was, well, incredibly funny.
By the time he was in his 30s and 40s, he had built a solid reputation as a stand-up comic. He performed in major clubs across the country, and his fame grew steadily. He was, in a way, laying the groundwork for something much bigger. His ability to tell stories and paint vivid pictures with his words was, really, something special. He could make you laugh out loud and, at the same time, make you think a little, too.
His comedy was, often, about the absurdities of life, about growing older, and about the struggles people faced. This made his material, you know, very relatable to a wide audience, even if some of his jokes were considered a bit edgy. He was, perhaps, ahead of his time in how he approached comedy, pushing boundaries and making people comfortable with uncomfortable truths.
The humor of "Sanford and Son" often came from the arguments between Fred and Lamont, Fred's schemes to avoid work, and his famous fake heart attacks. Redd Foxx's timing and expressions were, very, perfect for the role. He brought a warmth and a certain charm to a character who could have been just a stereotype. It was, basically, a show that broke new ground for Black actors on television.
He starred in "Sanford and Son" for six seasons, from 1972 to 1977. During these years, he was in his late 40s and early 50s. The show was, quite honestly, a massive success, regularly ranking among the top-rated programs on television. It earned him a Golden Globe Award and three Emmy nominations. This period, it's almost, defined his public image for many years to come.
Later Career and Final Years
After "Sanford and Son," Redd Foxx continued to work, though he never quite recaptured the same level of success. He starred in other television shows, like "The Redd Foxx Show" and "The Royal Family." He also continued to perform stand-up comedy, which was, you know, his first love. He was, really, a performer to his core, always wanting to be on stage making people laugh.
He faced some financial difficulties later in life, despite his success. This was, in a way, a tough period for him. However, he kept working, showing a remarkable resilience. He was, perhaps, always looking for the next opportunity to entertain, to connect with an audience. His dedication to his craft was, very, clear right up to the end.
Redd Foxx passed away on October 11, 1991, at the age of 68. He was on the set of his new television show, "The Royal Family," when he suffered a heart attack. Ironically, he was performing one of his signature "fake heart attack" routines when the real one occurred. His passing was, truly, a shock to many who knew and loved his work. He left behind a body of work that continues to bring joy to people today.
Redd Foxx's Age at Key Moments
Looking at Redd Foxx's life through the lens of his age helps us appreciate his journey and how his experiences shaped his art. It's interesting, too it's almost, to see how long he worked in comedy before becoming a huge star.
- Birth: December 9, 1922.
- Starting Comedy: Around 16-17 years old (late 1930s). He was, like, just a kid trying to make his way in the world, and he found comedy as his path.
- Moving to New York: Around 19-20 years old (early 1940s). This was, you know, a big move for him, chasing his dreams.
- First Comedy Album Release: "Laff of the Party" in 1956, when he was 33 years old. This was, basically, a turning point for his stand-up career.
- Start of "Sanford and Son": January 14, 1972, when he was 49 years old. This role, obviously, changed everything for him and for television comedy.
- End of "Sanford and Son": 1977, when he was 54 years old. He had spent, you know, five solid years as Fred Sanford.
- Passing: October 11, 1991, at the age of 68. He was, very, still working and making people laugh right up to his last day.
His life span, you know, from 1922 to 1991, covers a lot of change in entertainment and in the world. He adapted, he evolved, and he kept on performing. It's, arguably, a testament to his passion for comedy.
Lasting Legacy and Influence
Redd Foxx's influence on comedy and television is, really, quite significant. He paved the way for many Black comedians and actors. His raw, honest humor and his ability to connect with audiences on a very human level set him apart. He showed that you could be edgy and still be loved by millions. His character, Fred Sanford, is still, you know, recognized and quoted today, decades after the show first aired.
His work is, basically, still enjoyed by new generations who discover "Sanford and Son" or his stand-up albums. He taught us that laughter can come from everyday struggles, from family squabbles, and from just being yourself. He was, in a way, a master of observational humor, taking the mundane and making it hilarious. His legacy is, frankly, one of genuine humor and groundbreaking representation.
The way he delivered a line, his facial expressions, his unique timing – these are all things that comedians study and admire even now. He showed that age is, perhaps, just a number when it comes to talent and impact. His spirit, very truly, lives on through his work, reminding us of the joy he brought to so many people. You can learn more about his life and career from a well-known biographical resource.
Frequently Asked Questions About Redd Foxx's Age
How old was Redd Foxx when he passed away?
Redd Foxx was 68 years old when he passed away on October 11, 1991. He was born on December 9, 1922. His death, you know, happened while he was doing what he loved, working on a television show. It was a sudden event that, very, saddened many of his fans and colleagues. He was still, actually, performing and making people laugh right up until his last moments.
What was Redd Foxx's birth date?
Redd Foxx's birth date was December 9, 1922. He was born in St. Louis, Missouri. This date, basically, marks the beginning of a life that would eventually bring so much laughter and entertainment to millions. His early life experiences, which began on this date, really shaped the kind of comedian and person he would become. You can learn more about his early life on our site.
How old was Redd Foxx during Sanford and Son?
Redd Foxx was 49 years old when "Sanford and Son" first aired in January 1972. The show ran until 1977, so he was, you know, in his early to mid-50s during the show's run. This period, arguably, represented the peak of his mainstream fame. His age at the time allowed him to bring a certain wisdom and grumpiness to the character of Fred Sanford that made him, very, believable and funny. He was, like, just the right age to play that iconic role, and he made it his own. You can link to this page for more details on his career.
Conclusion
Redd Foxx's life, from his birth in 1922 to his passing in 1991 at 68 years old, was filled with humor, struggle, and immense talent. His journey from a young performer in the "chittlin' circuit" to a beloved television icon shows, you know, just how much he dedicated himself to making people laugh. His age at various points in his career tells a story of perseverance and a deep understanding of human nature.
He was, in some respects, a trailblazer, pushing boundaries in comedy and opening doors for future generations. His work continues to resonate, proving that true humor is, basically, timeless. We hope this look at Redd Foxx's age and life has given you a clearer picture of this remarkable entertainer. His memory, very truly, lives on through the laughter he created.
Redd Foxx | Biography, Comedy, Sanford and Son, & Facts | Britannica
Redd Foxx | WikiLists | Fandom
Redd Foxx | Biography, Albums, & Streaming Radio | AllMusic
