Who Is Redd Foxx? Age, Biography and Wiki
Redd Foxx was born on December 9, 1922, in St. Louis, Missouri. Known for his groundbreaking career in stand-up comedy and as a prominent actor, Redd became a household name through his role in the classic sitcom Sanford and Son, which aired from 1972 to 1977. His sharp wit and unique delivery set the stage for future generations of comedians. Foxx passed away on October 11, 1991, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to influence the entertainment industry.
| Occupation | Stand-up Comedians |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | December 9, 1922 |
| Age | 68 Years |
| Birth Place | St. Louis, Missouri, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Sagittarius |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 11 October, 1991 |
| Died Place | Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
Popularity
Redd Foxx's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
During his life, Redd Foxx stood at approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall (178 cm) and maintained a fluctuating weight typical of his era's natural physique. Specific measurements are not documented but were reflective of a fit and active individual who engaged in performance arts regularly.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Redd Foxx was married four times throughout his life. His last wife was Kina Tavaro. Despite his numerous relationships, he often focused more on his career than on consistent long-term partnerships. Redd had one daughter, Dee Dee Foxx, from a previous marriage, who has occasionally spoken about her father's influence both in her life and in the broader context of comedy.
John Elroy Sanford (December 9, 1922 – October 11, 1991), better known by his stage name Redd Foxx, was an American stand-up comedian and actor. Foxx gained success with his raunchy nightclub act before and during the civil rights movement. Known as the "King of the Party Records", he performed on more than 50 records in his lifetime.
He portrayed Fred G. Sanford on the television show Sanford and Son and starred in The Redd Foxx Show and The Royal Family, where he played the husband of Della Reese and grandfather of Larenz Tate.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing, Redd Foxx’s net worth was estimated to be around $3 million. Although this number may have changed in discussions surrounding his legacy, his earnings reflected the success he built over decades in show business, particularly through television and live performances.
In 1983, he filed for bankruptcy with proceedings continuing at least through 1989. The IRS filed tax liens against Redd Foxx's property for income taxes he owed for the years 1983 to 1986 totaling $755,166.21.
On November 28, 1989, the IRS seized his home in Las Vegas and seven vehicles (including a 1927 Model T, a 1975 Panther J72, a 1983 Zimmer, and a Vespa motor scooter) to pay the taxes which by then had grown to $996,630, including penalties and interest.
Agents also seized "$12,769 in cash and a dozen guns, including a semiautomatic pistol," among some 300 items in total, reportedly leaving only Foxx's bed. Foxx stated that the IRS "took my necklace and the ID bracelet off my wrist and the money out of my pocket ...
I was treated like I wasn't human at all." It has been reported that at the time of his death in 1991, Foxx owed more than $3.6 million in taxes.
Career, Business and Investments
Redd Foxx started his career performing in nightclubs and theaters before breaking into television and film. Beyond Sanford and Son, he made numerous guest appearances on various talk shows and sitcoms, releasing comedy albums that showcased his quick humor and storytelling abilities. In addition to his entertainment career, he invested in several ventures, including a Las Vegas casino and various business enterprises that expanded his brand.
At some point in the late 1970s and/or early 1980s, Foxx had a business on Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood where car owners could have their vehicles' roofs "velvetized"—a process that added a fuzzy, velvety texture to the brougham vinyl tops of some cars of that period. It was called "Redd Foxx's Car Velvetizing".
Social Network
While Redd Foxx had a significant presence during his career, his social network primarily revolved around colleagues in the comedy world, including legends like Richard Pryor and Eddie Murphy. His influence is still felt on social media today, with fans celebrating his work on platforms like Twitter and Instagram, ensuring that new audiences discover his comedic genius.
In 1977, Foxx left Sanford and Son after six seasons to star in a short-lived ABC variety show, resulting in the cancellation of the NBC series. In 1980 he was back playing Fred G. Sanford in a short-lived revival/spin-off, Sanford.
In 1986, he returned to television in the ABC series The Redd Foxx Show, which was canceled after 12 episodes due to low ratings. Foxx appeared as an Obi-Wan Kenobi-like character in the Star Wars special of the Donny & Marie show. In an homage to his show, he mentioned the planet Sanford, which has no sun.
Education
Redd Foxx attended various schools but eventually dropped out to pursue a career in entertainment. He was largely self-taught in his craft, learning through experience and embracing numerous challenges along the way. His dedication to refining his comedic style established him as a pioneer in the field.
