Lynn Hamilton, Star of ‘Sanford and Son’ and ‘The Waltons’, Dies at 95
Lynn Hamilton, the beloved actress best known for her memorable roles in television classics such as ‘Sanford and Son’ and ‘The Waltons’, has passed away at the age of 95. Her career, spanning several decades, left a lasting impression on American audiences and helped shape the fabric of 1970s and 1980s television.
Born in 1930 in Yazoo City, Mississippi, and raised in Chicago, Hamilton studied acting at Goodman Theatre and later honed her craft with the New York stage scene. Her early performances on Broadway and off-Broadway paved the way for a transition to film and television, where she truly gained recognition.
She found widespread acclaim on ‘Sanford and Son’, where she played the role of Donna Harris, the kind-hearted and dignified love interest of Fred Sanford, portrayed by Redd Foxx. Her presence brought balance and warmth to the sitcom and contributed to its enduring appeal. Fans admired the way she portrayed strong, sensitive characters who often stood as moral anchors within the shows.
Another significant chapter of Hamilton’s career was her recurring role on ‘The Waltons’, where she became part of one of television’s most cherished family dramas. There, she expanded her acting range, showcasing her ability to be both commanding and compassionate. Over the years, she became one of the few African American actresses to have consistent, meaningful roles during that television era—a distinction that made her a pioneer for future generations.
Throughout her extensive career, Lynn Hamilton appeared in various television shows and films, often portraying characters that reflected dignity, resilience, and quiet strength.
- TV Highlights: ‘Good Times’, ‘Roots: The Next Generations’, ‘The Rockford Files’
- Film Appearances: ‘Lady Sings the Blues’, ‘Brother John’
- Stage Work: Notable roles on Broadway and in regional theater productions
Beyond her on-screen accomplishments, Hamilton was known among colleagues and friends for her grace and humility. She preferred to let her work speak for itself, and it did—touching millions and influencing the portrayal of African American women on television.
As tributes pour in from fans and fellow actors alike, it’s clear that Lynn Hamilton’s legacy will endure, not only through reruns and archival footage, but through the doors she helped open in entertainment. Her life’s work was a quiet but powerful affirmation: representation matters, dignity is essential, and talent has no bounds.
