*Unfortunately we have sad news to report about an old school TV actor. Nathaniel Taylor, known to millions around the world as “Rollo” from the classic comedy series “Sanford and Son,” has passed away. He was 80.

According to his friend, entertainer/promoter Alonzo Williams, Taylor suffered a heart attack and was hospitalized on Saturday (02-23-19). He transitioned yesterday (02-27-19). He would have celebrated his 81st birthday next month on March 31.

Here’s what Williams had to say in honor of his longtime friend and mentor:

“Today black Hollywood lost a 70’s legend Nathaniel Taylor better known as “Rolo” of the hit show Sanford and son past Feb 27th at UCLA medical center of complications from a recent heart attack. Taylors character on Sanford and was the lovable, funny but questionable friend of Lamont the co-star of the show. Services are yet to be announced.”

Nathaniel ‘Rollo’ Taylor

Taylor leaves behind his wife Loretta as well as 4 daughters, two sons and numerous grandkids and great grandkids. Services are yet to be announced

Nathaniel Taylor (born March 31, 1938) is an American television actor, best known for his recurring role as Rollo Lawson in the 1970’s sitcom “Sanford and Son,” a role he later reprise on its short-lived 1980-1981 spin-off “Sanford.”

He later played the first version of Jim-Jam with Redd Foxx on the 1986 series “The Redd Foxx Show.” Later, he played Rerun’s (Fred Berry) brother-in-law Ike in the sitcom “What’s Happening!!.”

Taylor also was featured in “Trouble Man” starring Robert Hooks as one of Mr. Big’s henchmen.