Nathaniel Taylor, the actor best known for his role as Rollo Lawson, the street-smart best friend of Lamont Sanford on the 1970s sitcom “Sanford and Son”, died on February 27, 2019, at the age of 80. His death was confirmed by his friend and music promoter, Alonzo Williams. [according to DoYouRemember?]
Heart Attack: The Culprit Behind Nathaniel Taylor Cause of Death
According to his son Kaedi Taylor, Nathaniel Taylor died from a heart attack at the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles. [according to The Hollywood Reporter] He had been hospitalized since February 23, 2019, after suffering the cardiac arrest. [according to DoYouRemember?]
A Storied Career in Television and Film
Nathaniel Taylor was born on March 31, 1938, in St. Louis, Missouri. [according to Wikipedia] He started his acting career as an electrician at the Performing Arts Society of Los Angeles (PASLA), where he was discovered by his mentor, Larry Clark, who suggested he audition for a part in “Sanford and Son”. He met Redd Foxx, the star of the show, and impressed him with his hometown connection and his comedic talent. He landed the role of Rollo Lawson, Lamont’s friend who often clashed with Fred Sanford over his shady past and lifestyle. [according to Wikipedia]
Taylor reprised his role as Rollo Lawson in the spin-off series “Grady” and “Sanford”. He also appeared in other sitcoms such as “The Redd Foxx Show”, “What’s Happening!!”, and “The Bill Cosby Show”. He also acted in several movies, such as “Trouble Man”, “Willie Dynamite”, “As Above, So Below”, and “The Hunter”. [according to Wikipedia]
Taylor later became the executive director of PASLA, where he mentored aspiring actors and artists. He also starred in a short film called “Auditioning for Nathaniel” in 2016, directed by Kevin Jerome Everson. [according to Wikipedia]
A Legacy of Laughter and Love
Nathaniel Taylor is survived by his wife Loretta Taylor, whom he married in 2000, and his seven children. [according to Wikipedia] He is remembered by his fans and colleagues as a funny, charismatic, and generous person who brought joy and laughter to millions of viewers.
His co-star Demond Wilson, who played Lamont Sanford, paid tribute to him on Facebook: “Today black Hollywood lost a 70’s legend Nathaniel Taylor better known as Rolo!!! R.I.P. condolences to his family.” [according to Fox News]
His friend Alonzo Williams said: “He was a talented actor who could do drama and comedy. He was one of those guys that when you saw him on TV you said ‘I know that guy’. He had a familiar face.” [according to DoYouRemember?]