As Lamont Sanford, he played the practical, often exasperated son of Fred Sanford, a cantankerous junk dealer whose dramatic complaints and outrageous schemes regularly tested his son's patience.

The contrast between the two characters became the heart of the show's comedy. Fred's unpredictable behavior created one problem after another, while Lamont responded with frustration, sarcasm, and occasional attempts to restore order.

Wilson's performance gave the character a recognizable personality of his own. Lamont was not simply the straight man in a comedy routine; he was a son navigating the complicated relationship he shared with his father.

The series ran for six seasons, ending in 1977. Its humor, memorable dialogue, and focus on a Black family helped secure its place in American television history.