Sanford and Son/Funny

Everything About Fiction You Never Wanted to Know.


  • Fred's reaction to Mr. Wilcox's martial arts demonstration in the episode "Jealousy" is a Crowning Moment of Funny.

Fred: "This nigga's crazy!!".

    • Frankly, in those days, he really should not have been allowed to use the "n" word on television. But then again, Redd Foxx IS -- or WAS -- infamous for his undisciplined style of comedy.
    • In "Mama's Baby, Papa's Maybe," we hear Esther do the same thing upon hearing Big Money Grip declare that HE is Lamont's real father.

Esther: "What did you say, NIGGA?!"

  • In "Lamont Goes African," the Nigerian woman Olaiya scolds Lamont for constantly chastizing Fred.

Olaiya: "In my country, such behavior is unheard of! You would be beaten!"
Fred: "I wish I'd had you In Nigeria: I'd knock you out!"

Fred: *throws his smoking jacket at Juanita* "TAKE THIS FAGGOTTY JACKET WITH YOU!"

  • Every. Single. Time. Fred. Says. Something. About Esther.
    • "My Dear Esther":

Fred: "Goodbye, dear."
Esther: "Oh, you called me dear."
Fred: "Why shouldn't I call you "deer"? You look like Bambi's father."

    • "The Wedding":

Esther: Fred Sanford, the wrath of God will strike you down.
Fred: *picks up a bat and waves it at Esther* And this Louisville slugger will knock you out!

    • "The Surprise Party", after Fred returns from St. Louis and starts giving souveneirs to his family:

Fred: "I brought you somethin' too, Esther."
Esther: "Why, that's nothing but a clear piece of plastic."
Fred: "No, it ain't. Put it up to your face. That's your Hallowe'en mask."