Whitman Mayo was a popular American actor who starred in several movies and TV shows, but he was best known for his role as Grady Wilson on the 1970s sitcom Sanford and Son. He was a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, but he also faced some health challenges in his later years. Here is a look at his life, career, and tragic death.
Early Life and Career
Whitman Mayo was born on November 15, 1930, in New York City. He grew up in Harlem and Queens, and moved to Southern California with his family when he was 17. He attended Fontana High School, and later served in the US Army during the Korean War. After his discharge, he studied at Chaffey College, Los Angeles City College, and UCLA.
Mayo began acting in small parts while attending college, and held various jobs to support himself and his family. He worked as a waiter, a vineyard worker, a probation officer, and a counselor for delinquent boys. He also joined some theater groups in Los Angeles, where he met his mentor Frank Silvera, a renowned actor and director.
In 1965, Mayo landed his first professional role in the play The Amen Corner, written by James Baldwin. He continued to perform on stage and in films, such as Boyz n the Hood, The Main Event, and D.C. Cab. He also appeared on several TV shows, such as The Cape, In the Heat of the Night, Full House, and Different Strokes.
Fame and Fortune as Grady Wilson
Mayo’s most famous role came in 1973, when he was cast as Grady Wilson on Sanford and Son. The show was a hit comedy series created by Norman Lear, starring Redd Foxx as Fred Sanford, a junk dealer who lived with his son Lamont (Demond Wilson). Mayo played Fred’s friend and neighbor Grady, who often helped him with his schemes and problems.
Mayo’s character was named after Demond Wilson’s real first name, and he became a fan favorite for his humorous catchphrase “good goobly goop”. He appeared in 44 episodes of the show, and even took over as the lead character for six episodes when Foxx had a contract dispute with the producers.
Mayo also starred in Grady, a spin-off series that aired in 1975-1976. The show followed Grady as he moved in with his daughter and son-in-law in Beverly Hills. However, the show was not successful and was canceled after 10 episodes. Mayo returned to Sanford and Son afterwards, and reprised his role in two other spin-offs: Sanford Arms (1977) and Sanford (1980-1981).
Teaching and Hosting
Besides acting, Mayo also had a passion for teaching and mentoring young talents. He taught drama classes at Clark Atlanta University from 1996 to 2001, focusing on scene study and audition techniques. He also coached students for graduate school auditions.
Mayo also hosted a weekly series called Liars & Legends on Turner South from 2000 to 2001. The show featured stories and legends from the Southern states of America. Mayo interviewed celebrities, historians, authors, and ordinary people who had interesting tales to tell.
Personal Life and Family
Mayo was married three times in his life. His first wife was Melva Washington, whom he married in 1956 and divorced shortly after. His second wife was Patricia Yorck, whom he married in 1966 and divorced in 1974. His third wife was Gail Reid Mayo, whom he married in 1974 and remained with until his death.
Mayo had three children: two sons (Gerrard Gibbons and Rahn Mayo) and one daughter (Tonya Mayo). He also had several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was close to his family and often spent time with them.
Death and Legacy
On May 22, 2001, Mayo died of a heart attack at the age of 70. He was on vacation with his wife in Atlanta, Georgia, when he fell ill. He was taken to Crawford Long Hospital, where he passed away at 5:15 am.
Mayo’s death saddened many fans and colleagues who admired him for his talent and personality. He was remembered as a warm-hearted, generous, funny, and humble man who loved to make people laugh. He was also praised for his contributions to the African American community and culture.
Mayo’s funeral was held on May 29 at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta. He was buried at Lincoln Memorial Park Cemetery in Los Angeles.
Mayo’s legacy lives on through his memorable performances on screen and stage. He is widely regarded as one of the best comedic actors of his generation, and his role as Grady Wilson is considered a classic in TV history. He is also honored for his work as a teacher and a host, and for his positive impact on the lives of many people.