Lynn Hamilton, widely cherished for her memorable role as Donna Harris on the beloved sitcom Sanford and Son, has passed away at the age of 95.
Her career, marked by grace, strength, and quiet brilliance, spanned more than five decades across television and theater, leaving an enduring impact on audiences and the entertainment industry alike.
While many fans best remember her as the patient and loving partner of Fred Sanford, Hamilton’s talent extended far beyond that iconic role from the 1970s.
Throughout her extensive career, she took on a variety of roles in shows such as The Waltons, Roots: The Next Generation, The Golden Girls, 227, Generations, and The Practice.
Her versatility was evident in her seamless transition between comedy, drama, and soap operas, consistently delivering performances that resonated deeply.
Early Beginnings and Theatrical Roots
Born Alzenia Lynn Hamilton in Yazoo City, Mississippi, she relocated to Chicago Heights, Illinois, at the age of 12. From a young age, Lynn aspired to pursue acting, attending Bloom High School before sharpening her skills at the esteemed Goodman Theatre. There, she often worked backstage or took on minor roles and stood out as one of the very few Black women who focused exclusively on acting during a time when many Black artists were steered toward behind-the-scenes work.
Her stage career blossomed with appearances on Broadway, including the 1959 production of Only in America, as well as various Off-Broadway plays. She also developed a strong foundation through her involvement with the New York Shakespeare Festival before transitioning into film and television.
Moving to Los Angeles in the late 1960s, Hamilton arrived during a pivotal moment when Hollywood was beginning to offer more opportunities to Black actors, influenced by the civil rights movement’s momentum. This cultural shift paved the way for her television breakthrough.
Rise to Fame as Donna Harris
Hamilton’s significant break came in 1972 with Sanford and Son. Initially cast in a brief role as a landlady, her powerful presence convinced producers to expand her part, transforming her into Donna Harris. Reflecting on the opportunity, Hamilton once said, “They told me, ‘You can be as big as you want,’ and I thought, ‘Finally, I can put my theater experience to use.’”
Her character became a steady and calming influence on the show, providing balance to Fred Sanford’s antics with intelligence and warmth. Beyond Sanford and Son, she made notable appearances on The Waltons, standing out as one of the few Black actresses featured on that series at the time.
According to records, her last on-screen performance was a guest role on Cold Case in 2009.
A Gentle Goodbye
Lynn Hamilton passed away peacefully from natural causes on June 19, 2025, at her home in Chicago, Illinois. Her former publicist, Reverend Calvin Carson, confirmed the news, noting she was surrounded by family members, including grandchildren and caregivers.
Her family released a heartfelt statement on Instagram, honoring her “extraordinary life” and lasting contributions. They highlighted how her work on stage and screen continues to inspire new generations of artists and viewers.
Hamilton was married to playwright and poet Frank Jenkins for nearly five decades until his death in 2014. She leaves behind a rich legacy marked by resilience, compassion, and a timeless body of work.
More than just an actress, Lynn Hamilton embodied grace, wisdom, and strength in her roles. Her performances remain enduring testaments to her talent, continuing to touch the hearts of audiences who revisit her work on reruns.
Lynn Hamilton’s passing closes a significant chapter in television and theater history—one characterized by dignity, depth, and perseverance. Through her work, she brought life to characters and stories that often went unrecognized, lending dignity and nuance to roles rarely seen before.
As fans continue to celebrate her contributions to Sanford and Son, The Waltons, and beyond, her light shines on—an everlasting influence on both entertainment and culture.