When Redd Foxx Had a Heart Attack on Set of The Royal Family, No One Thought It Was Real

Legendary comedian and actor Redd Foxx was known for his sharp wit, bold humor, and unforgettable role as Fred Sanford on the classic sitcom Sanford and Son. One of his most iconic running gags on that show was clutching his chest and yelling, “I’m coming, Elizabeth!” — pretending to have a heart attack whenever things got too stressful. It became one of the most memorable catchphrases in television history.

But tragically, that very joke would later lead to confusion during his final moments.

In October 1991, while rehearsing for his new sitcom The Royal Family, Redd Foxx suddenly collapsed on set. Because faking heart attacks had been his trademark for years, many people on set initially thought he was joking. Crew members reportedly laughed at first, believing it was another one of his classic comedic bits.

Sadly, it wasn’t. Foxx was suffering from a massive heart attack. Once the cast and crew realized the situation was serious, paramedics were called, but it was too late. Redd Foxx was pronounced dead shortly after at the age of 68.

The moment was both shocking and heartbreaking — a tragic twist of fate that the very thing he was most famous for became the reason people didn’t recognize his distress right away.

Despite his untimely passing, Redd Foxx’s legacy as a comedy pioneer lives on. From his groundbreaking stand-up routines to his unforgettable performances on television, Foxx broke barriers for Black entertainers and influenced generations of comedians to come.

Redd Foxx made audiences laugh until the very end — and though his passing came suddenly, his impact on comedy will forever remain timeless.