Redd Foxx Obituary and Cause of Death
Redd Foxx, born John Elroy Sanford, died on October 11, 1991, at age 68 from a heart attack on set in Las Vegas, Nevada. The comedian and actor was best known for starring in the 1970s sitcom Sanford and Son and later in The Royal Family. His death was confirmed by the Los Angeles County Coroner and reported by major outlets including the Associated Press and The New York Times. At the time of his passing, Foxx remained one of the highest-earning Black entertainers in American television history, with a career spanning stand-up, film, and network TV. His obituary noted that he had been working on The Royal Family with longtime collaborator Demond Wilson shortly before his death. Full obituary coverage.
Foxx's final years were marked by financial turbulence despite earlier success. He filed for bankruptcy in 1987, listing debts that included unpaid taxes and failed business ventures. The bankruptcy case was filed in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Central District of California. Even after bankruptcy, Foxx continued performing and acting, attempting to rebuild his wealth through live tours and new television projects. His death interrupted several ongoing entertainment commitments and left unresolved contractual and estate matters. Estate analysis.
Redd Foxx Net Worth and Career Earnings
At its peak, Redd Foxx's net worth was estimated at around 60 million dollars, driven by his salary from Sanford and Son, stand-up concert tours, and film roles. The show ran from 1972 to 1977 on ABC and was among the top-rated series in the United States during its run. Foxx earned one of the highest per-episode salaries of any Black actor on television at that time, according to industry reports and trade publications. His stand-up specials and nightclub appearances also generated significant income, particularly in Las Vegas and major urban markets. Forbes career earnings breakdown.
After Sanford and Son ended, Foxx's income declined as he faced costly divorces, tax liens, and failed business investments. He launched a short-lived variety show in the 1970s and later starred in less successful sitcoms and films. The IRS filed multiple tax liens against him during the late 1970s and 1980s, contributing to his 1987 bankruptcy filing. Despite these setbacks, Foxx retained ownership of his name and likeness, which continued to generate licensing revenue. SEC filings for entertainment companies.
Redd Foxx Financial Legacy and Estate
Redd Foxx's estate was valued at several million dollars at the time of his death, with the majority of assets tied to intellectual property rights and royalties from his television work. His will named multiple beneficiaries, including his wife and children, and the estate was handled through probate court in Los Angeles County. The estate continues to manage licensing deals for his name, image, and classic show reruns, generating ongoing revenue streams.