Redd Foxx Biography: Wives, Net Worth, Real Name, Movies, Awards, Age, Parents, Siblings, Children

---

Redd Foxx, born John Elroy Sanford, was an iconic American stand-up comedian and actor. Known for his raunchy, often controversial humor, he delivered with a unique style and infectious energy that captivated audiences.

His comedic talent and trailblazing performances made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, with an enduring impact on stand-up comedy.

Profile

• Full Name: John Elroy Sanford
• Stage Name: Redd Foxx
• Born: December 9, 1922
• Died: October 11, 1991 (Age: 68 years)
• Birthplace: St. Louis, Missouri, United States
• Nationality: American
• Occupation: Comedian and Actor
• Height: 1.72m
• Parents: Mary Sanford Carson and Fred Sanford
• Siblings: Fred Jr. and Leonard
• Spouse: Evelyn Killebrew (m. 1948–1951), Betty Jean Harris (m. 1956–1975), Yun Chi Chung (m. 1976–1981), Ka Ho Cho (m. 1991–1991)
• Children: None
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: -$5 million

Early Life and Education

John Elroy Sanford was born on December 9, 1922, in St. Louis, Missouri, United States, to Mary Sanford Carson and Fred Sanford. He grew up with his two siblings, Fred Jr. and Leonard. Foxx attended DuSable High School in Chicago, where he spent his formative years. Of white ethnicity, he identified with the Christian faith, which played a role in shaping his upbringing.

Career

Redd Foxx began his career in the 1940s and 1950s, performing stand-up comedy on the “Chitlin’ Circuit,” which catered to Black audiences.

His explicit and bold comedic style, known as “blue humor,” resonated deeply with his fans, earning him the nickname “King of the Party Records.” Despite initial challenges due to the controversial nature of his material, Foxx’s undeniable talent and charisma brought him wider recognition.

He gained popularity in the 1960s with his numerous comedy albums and television appearances on programs such as The Ed Sullivan Show and The Red Skelton Hour. However, his breakthrough came with his portrayal of Fred G. Sanford on the iconic sitcom Sanford and Son (1972–1977). The show became a cultural phenomenon, breaking racial barriers and establishing Foxx as a household name.

After Sanford and Son, Foxx continued his television career with projects like The Redd Foxx Comedy Hour and The Redd Foxx Show. His final work was the sitcom The Royal Family in 1991, which was interrupted by his untimely passing.

Foxx’s fearless comedy and trailblazing achievements broke down barriers for Black performers, inspiring future legends such as Richard Pryor and Eddie Murphy.

Awards and Nominations

• Primetime Emmy Awards
• Golden Globe Awards
• NAACP Image Award

Social Media

• Instagram: @reddfoxxofficial
• Facebook: Redd Foxx

Personal Life

Redd Foxx experienced a tumultuous personal life, marked by four marriages. He first married Evelyn Killebrew in 1948, but the couple divorced in 1951. His second marriage to Betty Jean Harris in 1956 lasted until 1975 and was the longest of his unions. Foxx adopted Debraca Denise, Betty Jean’s daughter, during this marriage.

In 1976, Foxx married Yun Chi Chung, but their relationship ended in divorce in 1981. His final marriage was to Ka Ho Cho in 1991, tragically cut short by his death that same year.

Film

• All the Fine Young Cannibals (1960)
• Cotton Comes to Harlem (1970)
• Norman… Is That You? (1976)
• Days of Heaven (1978)
• Harlem Nights (1989)
• Surely, You Jest (2019)

Net Worth

At the time of his death, Redd Foxx had a net worth of -$5 million, reflecting significant financial challenges. Despite his fame and immense contributions to comedy, Foxx faced financial mismanagement and tax issues that led to bankruptcy and substantial debt.

---

---

---

---

---

---

---

---