We’re watching Sanford and Son dummy! The father and son sitcom about junk dealers in LA with family insults and arguments.
You can pick up the entire series of Sanford and Son on dvd. (affiliate link)
Synopsis
Sanford and Son is a classic American sitcom that aired from 1972 to 1977, centering on the comedic adventures of Fred Sanford, a sharp-tongued junk dealer in Los Angeles, and his patient son, Lamont. Played by Redd Foxx and Demond Wilson, the duo navigates their chaotic junk business while clashing over their differing outlooks on life. Fred’s outrageous schemes and exaggerated antics, like his famous fake heart attacks (“I’m coming, Elizabeth!”), contrast with Lamont’s responsible nature. With memorable supporting characters like Aunt Esther and Grady, the show blends sharp humor with social commentary, becoming a landmark in African American television history.
Straight from the Couch
- Lots of racial humor from a black perspective in the 1970s.
- Lamont is kind of a jerk to his dad. Sure, it’s comedy and you have to conflict – but sometimes it feels excessive.
- Fred is needy.
Season 1
We’ve just finished Season One. Like most series, these first episodes are warming up and settling in. We see the familiar police officer duo, and a friend named Melvin, but the characters of Grady and Esther haven’t joined in yet.
So far we’ve seen the cries about the big one! He’s coming Elizabeth. Fred and Lamont spend a lot of the time arguing and accidentally sabotages each others attempts at a better life. There’s also the racial and homosexual based humor that would be written differently or not at all in modern times. This is one of the product of the times.
Season 2
Season Two continues to establish the dynamic between Fred and Lamont. We get more stories from Fred’s hometown of Saint Louis. This is always the first time we see Aunt Ester (LaWanda Page) and find out just how ugly Elizabeth’s side of the family is.
Outstanding Episodes
Fred & Carol & Fred & Donna – Fred is still dating around on the Barracuda (Donna). This time he almost gets engaged twice.
Rated X – Fred and Lamont accidentally sign on to act in a dirty movie.
Season 3
We’re underway on Season 3!
