LaWanda Page was an American actress who is best known for her role as Aunt Esther Anderson on “Sanford and Son,” along with appearances in films such as “Friday,” “Don’t Be A Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice In The Hood,” and “The Legend of Dolemite.” With a career spanning decades, she became a beloved figure in comedy and television.
Personal and Family Life
LaWanda Page was born Alberta Peal on October 19, 1920, in Cleveland, Ohio. She was married to John Peal from 1934 until his death in 1939, and they had two children together. Her parents were Willie Richmond and Estella Small, who likely influenced her artistic passions.
Career Highlights
Page’s career took off with her memorable portrayal of Aunt Esther on “Sanford and Son,” a role that made her a household name. She featured in numerous films throughout her career, including “Friday” and “The Meteor Man.” Additionally, Page appeared in various popular TV shows such as “Martin,” “Family Matters,” and “The Love Boat,” showcasing her talent across different genres.
Death and Legacy
LaWanda Page passed away on September 14, 2002, in Los Angeles, California, due to complications from diabetes. She left behind a rich legacy as a pioneering African American actress in the entertainment industry, known for her strength, humor, and unforgettable performances.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Shakes the Clown | 1991-08-28 | Female Clown Barfly |
| Mausoleum | 1983-05-01 | Elsie |
| Goodbye Cruel World | 1983-01-02 | Wilma |
| Zapped! | 1982-07-23 | Mrs. Jones |
| The Legend of Dolemite! Bigger & Badder | 1994-01-01 | Self |
| Women Tell the Dirtiest Jokes | 1985-08-31 | |
| The Complete Richard Pryor Roast | 1977-01-01 | |
| Stonestreet: Who Killed the Centerfold Model? | 1977-01-16 | Erna |
| The Meteor Man | 1993-08-06 | Old Nurse |
| Friday | 1995-04-26 | Old Lady |
| CB4 | 1993-03-12 | Grandma |
| My Blue Heaven | 1990-08-17 | Hotel Maid |
| The Richard Pryor Special? | 1977-05-05 | Sister Mabel Williams |
| The Redd Foxx Comedy Hour | 1977-09-15 | |
| The Dean Martin Celebrity Roasts | 1973-09-14 | Self |
| Amazing Stories | 1985-09-29 | Aunt Esther |
| Dinah! | 1974-10-21 | Self |
| Starsky & Hutch | 1975-09-10 | Lady Bessie |
| Diff’rent Strokes | 1978-11-03 | |
| The Love Boat | 1977-09-24 | Stella Marshall |
| Brothers and Sisters | 1979-01-21 | Hattie |
| 227 | 1985-09-14 | |
| The Parent ‘Hood | 1995-01-18 | |
| Family Matters | 1989-09-22 | Elmerita Puckerwood |
| Dream On | 1990-07-08 | |
| Martin | 1992-08-27 | |
| The Richard Pryor Show | 1977-09-13 | |
| Sanford Arms | 1977-09-16 | Aunt Esther Anderson |
| B.A.D. Cats | 1980-01-04 | |
| Detective School | 1979-07-31 | |
| Sanford | 1980-03-15 | Esther Anderson |
| Sanford and Son | 1972-01-14 |