Sherman Hemsley Dies at 74
The entertainment industry mourns the loss of another great actor. Actor Sherman Hemsley, best known for his starring role on the ‘70s hit sitcom The Jeffersons, died at age 74.
TMZ reported on Tuesday, July 24, that Hemsley passed away at his home in El Paso, Texas. CNN also reported that police found “no evidence of foul play” and “the cause of death will be determined through an autopsy.”
The Emmy- and Golden Globe-nominated actor became a household name for his take on the role of the wise-cracking George Jefferson on the comedy series that ran for 11 seasons. Hemsley also starred in other classic television shows, including Amen, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Family Matters, and The Hughleys.
Not only a veteran actor but also an accomplished singer, the talented Hemsley released the single “Ain’t That a Kick in the Head” in 1989 and an R&B album called Dance in 1992.
The iconic funnyman never married, and he did not have any children.
Celebs React to The Jefferson’s Star’s Passing
When they learned the disheartening news of Mr. Hemsley’s death, celebrities paid their respects to the beloved TV actor via Twitter.
Lenny Kravitz: Rest in peace, Sherman Hemsley. You are legendary. Your contribution changed the fabric of American culture.
Tamera Mowry: RIP SHERMAN HEMSLEY … You were brilliant at your craft! You taught me pure comedy. Such a pleasure working with a such a great talent.
Tom Morello: RIP the great George Jefferson. Thanks so much to comedic pioneer Sherman Hemsley for bringing a black family into my white hometown,
Tavis Smiley: What’s life without laughter? For those of a certain age, we grew up watching Sherman Hemsley. What a loss.
Deion Sanders: God bless, Sherman Hemsley, BKA George Jefferson. He’s gone to be with the Lord. He made me dream I could move on up. Truth.
Bootsy Collins: Man, We lost Another One That Kept Up Cracking Up Through Some Tuff Times. Mr. Sherman Hemsley, aka George Jefferson.
Jeffrey Ross: Sherman Helmsley moved on up. Roast in peace, funny man.
Kevin Smith: G’bye, Sherman Hemsley. Your George Jefferson was so beloved, it earned you your own successful sitcom! Huge bucket of win! Move on up, sir.
Russell Simmons: RIP Sherman Hemsley, aka George Jefferson. Rest peacefully in the de-luxe apartment in the sky.
So long, Mr. Hemsley. You will be missed.
Image Source: Wikipedia
Bea Canuel
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What a lost I still watch Jefferson's & Amen every morning, RIP you are already missed