Over a career spanning more than five decades, Williams became a recognizable presence on television, earning lasting recognition for his performances in sitcoms and dramas that introduced him to generations of viewers, while also appearing in a number of notable Hollywood films.
Hal Williams Built a Career Through Television Classics and Memorable Film Roles
Born Halroy Candis Williams in Columbus, Ohio, on December 14, 1934, he did not enter the entertainment industry immediately. After working as a postal employee and corrections officer, he relocated to Hollywood in the late 1960s to pursue acting full-time. His persistence paid off as he steadily secured television work throughout the following decade.
Williams became widely known for portraying Officer “Smitty” Smith on “Sanford and Son,” a recurring role that helped establish him as a familiar television face. He later joined “The Waltons” as Harley Foster before reaching another career milestone as Lester Jenkins, the dependable family patriarch on NBC’s “227,” where he appeared throughout the sitcom’s five-season run.
Alongside his television success, Williams maintained an active film career. His credits included “Private Benjamin,” where he played Drill Sergeant Ted Ross, a role he later reprised in the television adaptation. He also appeared in pictures such as “Hardcore,” “The Rookie,” “Guess Who,” and “Flight,” demonstrating his versatility across comedy and drama.
Williams continued acting well into his later years. Most recently, he appeared in the reboot of “Matlock,” playing Autry in 2024 before returning to the role the following year. His final screen appearances capped a career that stretched across more than 50 years and included performances alongside some of television and film’s most recognizable stars.