Hal Williams, a character actor with a career spanning multiple decades of television and film, died on 15 July at his residence in California. He was 91 years old.
Williams became widely recognized for his recurring role as Officer “Smitty” Smith in the NBC sitcom Sanford and Son, which ran from 1972 to 1977. The series, adapted by Norman Lear from the British program Steptoe and Son, became a significant cultural touchstone. Despite his television work, Williams maintained financial stability by working overnight shifts at the post office during the show’s production, as he did not feel sufficiently secure to rely solely on acting income. In interviews, Williams reflected on the realities of pursuing an entertainment career, advising aspiring performers to develop skills in other fields and prepare for extended periods of professional development before achieving recognition.
Beyond his best-known role, Williams appeared in the sitcom 227, which aired between 1985 and 1990, playing the character Lester Jenkins alongside cast members Marla Gibbs, Regina King, and Jackée Harry. His filmography included appearances in Hardcore, Herbie Rides Again, Private Benjamin, The Rookie, and Guess Who. He later reprised his Private Benjamin role in a television adaptation of the theatrical film.
Williams’ television credits extended across numerous series including The Waltons, The Sinbad Show, The Dukes of Hazzard, Knots Landing, Moesha, Hill Street Blues, and a recent appearance in the Kathy Bates-led Matlock reboot. Before transitioning to entertainment, Williams worked as a postal employee and corrections officer before relocating to Los Angeles in 1968 to pursue acting in his 30s. His later commentary on the entertainment industry reflected on increased opportunities for Black producers, writers, and directors, noting generational changes in representation.