Siva Afi obit

Siva Afi Passes Away

 He was not on the list.

Siva Afi’s family relayed the news.

It was confirmed by the family of former wrestler Siva Afi that Afi has passed away. The news was relayed by Book Pro Wrestlers, who wrote the following about Afi:

“We are saddened to learn that Siva Afi has passed away, as confirmed by his family.

From his memorable WWF run to his work as Burt Reynolds’ bodyguard and stuntman, Siva lived a remarkable life. More importantly, he earned the respect of those who shared a locker room with him—so many of the wrestlers we’ve spoken with over the years remembered him as a genuinely kind and well-liked man.

Rest in peace, Siva Afi. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. ❤️🙏”

Afi, real name Papali’itele Max Amata Taogaga, began his in-ring career in the 1970s. In 1985, he wrestled nearly 30 matches for New Japan Pro-Wrestling.

He would then make his way to WWF, where he wrestled from 1986 to 1988. The last match of Afi’s career was in 1997.

Fightful would like to extend our condolences to the family and friends of Siva Afi.

Alan Walden obit

Macon music manager, Capricorn Records co-founder Alan Walden dies at 83

 He was not on the list.

MACON, Ga. (WGXA) — Longtime Macon music manager, booking agent and publisher Alan Walden has died at the age of 83.

Walden died Thursday morning while in hospice care as a result of an illness, his wife, Tosha Walden, confirmed that afternoon.

Walden helped put Macon and numerous musicians on the map in the music industry, signing dozens of artists. Over the years, Walden managed careers for Lynyrd Skynyrd, the Outlaws and early on, Otis Redding.

During those years, Walden and Redding worked closely together, forming a friendship.

“Otis Redding became my best friend in life, and when we moved to Round Oak, Georgia, I moved right next to him,” Walden shared with WGXA News during a 2021 interview while reflecting on his life up to the release of his memoir, "Southern Man: Music and Mayhem in the American South."

Walden opened Redwal Music with his brother Phil Walden and the great Otis Redding in 1965, publishing hit songs like "Respect", "I Can't Turn You Loose", "Sweet Soul Music", "I've Been Loving You Too Long", and "(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay". He also co-founded Capricorn Records with his brother and later formed Hustler's Inc., a management and publishing company.

Walden started Redwal Music alongside his brother, Phil Walden. Redwal was one of the first integrated music publishing companies in the South, representing and publishing R&B and soul artists such as Otis Redding, Percy Sledge, Johnny Taylor and Etta James.

“I had 55 African American recording artists. Black artists were treated unfairly, and my brother and I brought a lot of respect to those artists, to that industry,” Walden told WGXA News in 2021.

Following Otis Redding’s death, the Walden brothers shifted from R&B music management. Their new focus centered on developing a record label and studio. They would go on to co-found Capricorn Records, known for developing the southern rock genre with acts such as the Allman Brothers Band, Wet Willie and many others.

Walden went on to manage many artists through his management and publishing company, Hustler’s Inc., often searching for the right talent to represent.

Walden is survived by his wife, Tosha, his daughters, Jessica and Georgeanna, his son, Roger "Christian," a grandson and several nieces and nephews.

He worked with musical acts including Otis Redding, Sam & Dave, Percy Sledge, Johnnie Taylor, Clarence Carter, Arthur Conley, Al Green, Joe Tex, Z. Z. Hill, Candi Staton, Albert King, William Bell, Eddie Floyd, Etta James, Boz Scaggs, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Outlaws, and September Hase. He opened Redwal Music with his brother Phil Walden in 1965, publishing hit songs like "Respect", "I Can't Turn You Loose", "Sweet Soul Music", "I've Been Loving You Too Long", and "(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay". He also co-founded Capricorn Records with his brother and later went on to form Hustler's Inc., a management and publishing company.

Brenda Fricker obit

Brenda Fricker Dies: Oscar-Winning Actor & ‘Home Alone 2’s Central Park Pigeon Lady Was 81

 

She was not on the list.

Brenda Fricker, a Best Supporting Actress Oscar winner with memorable roles in My Left Foot and Home Alone 2, has died after a period of ill health, according to her agent. She was 81.

In a statement, her agent Phil Belfield confirmed Fricker’s death and said: “We will never see her like again and the world is lesser for the lack of her.”

“I was honored to know, love and work with her and she will always have a place in my heart and in the heart of so many film and TV fans the world over,” added Belfield.

Born in Dublin in 1945, Fricker started her career as a journalist before moving to TV and landing roles in British shows Coronation Street and Casualty, playing Megan Roach in the latter for 65 episodes.

She landed international acclaim playing Bridget Fagan Brown, mother of Daniel Day-Lewis’ Christy Brown, in Jim Sheridan’s My Left Foot.

Along with Day-Lewis, Fricker won an Oscar for her performance in the movie about an Irish man born with cerebral palsy who could control only his left foot. Fricker became the first Irish actress to win an Oscar and beat huge stars like Julia Roberts and Anjelica Huston to the prize.

Two years later, she appeared in Home Alone 2: Lost in New York in the iconic role of Central Park Pigeon Lady, which gave her worldwide recognition.

Fricker subsequently appeared in the likes of So I Married an Axe Murderer, Moll Flanders, Veronica Guerin and Albert Nobbs.

Before becoming an actress, Fricker was assistant to the art editor of The Irish Times, with hopes of becoming a reporter. At age 19, she became an actress "by chance". Her feature-film career began with a small uncredited part in the 1964 film Of Human Bondage, based on W. Somerset Maugham's 1915 novel. She also appeared in Tolka Row, Ireland's first soap opera.

Actress

The Swallow (2024)

The Swallow

Woman

2024

 

Kathy Bates, Laura Linney, Maggie Smith, Agnes O'Casey, and Eric D. Smith in The Miracle Club (2023)

The Miracle Club

6.4

Maureen (voice)

2023

 

Jason Watkins, Poppy Gilbert, and Aneurin Barnard in The Catch (2023)

The Catch

5.9

TV Mini Series

Phyllis

2023

4 episodes

 

Dead Trace (2022)

Dead Trace

(rumored)

2022

 

Holding (2022)

Holding

6.7

TV Series

Mrs Meany

2022

4 episodes

 

Callum Dunphy in Cam Boy (2021)

Cam Boy

6.8

TV Mini Series

Tilda

2021

1 episode

 

Forgive Me (2013)

Forgive Me

6.9

TV Series

Mrs. Smith

2013–2015

3 episodes

 

Deadly (2014)

Deadly

8.5

Short

Bridie

2014

 

James Fox and Natalie Dormer in A Long Way from Home (2013)

A Long Way from Home

5.4

Brenda

2013

 

The Body Farm (2011)

The Body Farm

6.7

TV Mini Series

Eileen Quinn

2011

1 episode

 

Cloudburst (2011)

Cloudburst

7.2

Dot

2011

 

Glenn Close, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and Mia Wasikowska in Albert Nobbs (2011)

Albert Nobbs

6.7

Polly

2011

 

Eliza Dushku, Ben Barnes, and Sarah Roemer in Locked In (2010)

Locked In

4.7

Joan

2010

 

Casualty (1986)

Casualty

6.2

TV Series

Megan Roach

1986–2010

72 episodes

 

Tameka Empson, Aidan McArdle, Olivia Colman, Luke Ward-Wilkinson, Layton Williams, and Sophie Ash in Beautiful People (2008)

Beautiful People

8.5

TV Series

Narg

2008

1 episode

 

Stone of Destiny (2008)

Stone of Destiny

6.7

Mrs. McQuarry

2008

 

How About You (2007)

How About You

6.6

Heather Nightingale

2007

 

Shirley MacLaine, Christopher Plummer, and Mischa Barton in Closing the Ring (2007)

Closing the Ring

6.5

Eleanor

2007

 

Andie MacDowell and Olivia Williams in Tara Road (2005)

Tara Road

6.0

Mona McCarthy

2005

 

Milk (2005)

Milk

6.0

Short

Nan

2005

 

Razor Fish

8.4

Short

Molly

2004

 

Rory O'Shea Was Here (2004)

Rory O'Shea Was Here

7.7

Eileen

2004

 

Omagh (2004)

Omagh

7.2

TV Movie

Police Ombudsman Nuala O'Loan

2004

 

Jamie Lynn Sigler in Call Me: The Rise and Fall of Heidi Fleiss (2004)

Call Me: The Rise and Fall of Heidi Fleiss

5.6

TV Movie

Madame Alex

2004

 

Colin Firth in Trauma (2004)

Trauma

4.7

Petra

2004

 

Cate Blanchett in Veronica Guerin (2003)

Veronica Guerin

6.8

Bernie Guerin

2003

 

Conspiracy of Silence (2003)

Conspiracy of Silence

6.5

Annie McLaughlin

2003

 

Jamie Draven, Anna Friel, and Sean McGinley in Watermelon (2003)

Watermelon

5.8

TV Movie

Teresa Ryan

2003

 

The Intended (2002)

The Intended

5.7

Mrs. Jones

2002

 

Kathleen Robertson in Torso: The Evelyn Dick Story (2002)

Torso: The Evelyn Dick Story

6.0

TV Movie

Alexandra MacLean

2002

 

Brenda Fricker, Tina Kellegher, and Maria Doyle Kennedy in No Tears (2002)

No Tears

7.6

TV Mini Series

Grainne McFadden

2002

4 episodes

 

Mother Me Daughter

Short

Theresa

2001

 

I Was a Rat (2001)

I Was a Rat

6.3

TV Mini Series

Joan Jones

2001

3 episodes

 

War Bride (2001)

War Bride

6.8

Betty

2001

 

Cupid & Cate (2000)

Cupid & Cate

6.1

TV Movie

Willie Hendley

2000

 

Relative Strangers (1999)

Relative Strangers

6.8

TV Mini Series

Maureen Lessing

1999

2 episodes

 

Durango (1999)

Durango

6.3

TV Movie

Aunt Maeve

1999

 

Dana Delany in Resurrection (1999)

Resurrection

5.8

TV Movie

Clare's mother

1999

 

Matthew Modine in The American (1998)

The American

5.9

TV Movie

Mrs. Bread

1998

 

Mike Myers, Alfred Molina, and Brenda Fricker in Pete's Meteor (1998)

Pete's Meteor

4.6

Lily

1998

 

Stuart Townsend in Resurrection Man (1998)

Resurrection Man

5.4

Dorcas Kelly

1998

 

Painted Angels (1998)

Painted Angels

5.1

Annie Ryan

1998

 

Patrick Stewart and Vincent Kartheiser in Masterminds (1997)

Masterminds

5.3

Principal Maloney

1997

 

Swann (1996)

Swann

5.2

Rose Hindmarch

1996

 

Sandra Bullock, Samuel L. Jackson, and Matthew McConaughey in A Time to Kill (1996)

A Time to Kill

7.5

Ethel Twitty

1996

 

Morgan Freeman and Robin Wright in Moll Flanders (1996)

Moll Flanders

6.4

Mrs. Mazzawatti

1996

 

Journey (1995)

Journey

6.5

TV Movie

Lottie

1995

 

Out of Ireland (1995)

Out of Ireland

7.1

TV Movie

Narrator (voice)

1995

 

A Woman of Independent Means (1995)

A Woman of Independent Means

6.7

TV Mini Series

Mother Steed

1995

3 episodes

 

Albert Finney in A Man of No Importance (1994)

A Man of No Importance

6.7

Lily Byrne

1994

 

Angels in the Outfield (1994)

Angels in the Outfield

6.2

Maggie Nelson

1994

 

Jane Horrocks, John Mills, Billie Whitelaw, and Edward Woodward in Deadly Advice (1994)

Deadly Advice

6.0

Iris Greenwood

1994

 

Mike Myers and Nancy Travis in So I Married an Axe Murderer (1993)

So I Married an Axe Murderer

6.5

May MacKenzie

1993

 

Josette Simon in Seekers (1993)

Seekers

6.3

TV Series

Stella Hazard

1993

2 episodes

 

Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, and Daniel Stern in Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)

Home Alone 2: Lost in New York

6.9

Pigeon Lady

1992

 

Utz (1992)

Utz

6.5

Marta

1992

 

Alexander Graham Bell: The Sound and the Silence (1991)

Alexander Graham Bell: The Sound and the Silence

7.1

TV Movie

Eliza

1991

 

Lethal Innocence

6.7

TV Movie

Vinnie

1991

 

Brides of Christ (1991)

Brides of Christ

8.2

TV Mini Series

Sister Agnes

1991

6 episodes

 

Richard Harris in The Field (1990)

The Field

7.3

Maggie McCabe

1990

 

My Left Foot (1989)

My Left Foot

7.8

Mrs. Brown

1989

 

Screen Two (1984)

Screen Two

6.6

TV Series

Ray's mother

1989

1 episode

 

To Have and to Hold (1986)

To Have and to Hold

7.5

TV Mini Series

Mrs. Archer

1986

2 episodes

 

Charlie Condou in Exploits at West Poley (1985)

Exploits at West Poley

6.6

TV Movie

Aunt Draycott

1985

 

The Woman Who Married Clark Gable (1985)

The Woman Who Married Clark Gable

8.0

Short

Mary

1985

 

Eh Brian! It's a Whopper (1984)

Eh Brian! It's a Whopper

7.8

TV Series

Bridget

1984

6 episodes

 

Don Henderson, Diane Keen, Peter Sallis, and Don Warrington in Crown Court (1972)

Crown Court

7.4

TV Series

Ann WillettMrs. GarlandMrs. Harland

1979–1984

6 episodes

 

Cockles (1984)

Cockles

6.3

TV Series

Ms Kyte

1984

1 episode

 

Paul McGann, David Daker, Robert Lindsay, and Shirin Taylor in Give us a Break (1983)

Give us a Break

7.8

TV Series

Anna Kirby

1983

1 episode

 

The Gathering Seed (1983)

The Gathering Seed

7.5

TV Series

Kitty Henshaw

1983

6 episodes

 

The Ballroom of Romance (1982)

The Ballroom of Romance

7.8

Bridie

1982

 

Julie Dawn Cole and Janina Faye in Angels (1975)

Angels

6.6

TV Series

Margaret O'Donnell

1982

2 episodes

 

Russian Night... 1941

TV Movie

Antonina

1982

 

Juliet Bravo (1980)

Juliet Bravo

6.7

TV Series

Marion Kershaw

1981

1 episode

 

Mr & Mrs Edgehill (1985)

BBC2 Playhouse

6.7

TV Series

Dorothy

1981

2 episodes

 

Bloody Kids (1980)

Bloody Kids

6.1

TV Movie

Nurse

1980

 

Barbara Kellerman, Simon MacCorkindale, and John Mills in Quatermass (1979)

Quatermass

7.0

TV Mini Series

Alison Thorpe

1979

2 episodes

 

The Quatermass Conclusion (1979)

The Quatermass Conclusion

5.6

Alison Thorpe

1979

 

The Music Machine (1979)

The Music Machine

5.8

Mrs. Pearson

1979

 

Peter Barkworth and Hannah Gordon in Telford's Change (1979)

Telford's Change

8.7

TV Series

Pat Burton

1979

1 episode

 

Z Cars (1962)

Z Cars

7.1

TV Series

Tina Stevens

1978

2 episodes

 

People Like Us (1978)

People Like Us

7.4

TV Mini Series

Gloria

1978

1 episode

 

Play for Today (1970)

Play for Today

7.8

TV Series

Eileen GrahamMollie

1976–1978

2 episodes

 

Peter Adamson, Jean Alexander, Johnny Briggs, Margot Bryant, and Doris Speed in Coronation Street (1960)

Coronation Street

5.6

TV Series

Staff Nurse Maloney

1977

4 episodes

 

Armchair Theatre (1956)

Armchair Theatre

7.7

TV Series

Pat Moran

1974

1 episode

 

Alison Fiske and Martin Shaw in Helen: A Woman of Today (1973)

Helen: A Woman of Today

7.9

TV Series

Caroline Ainsley

1973

2 episodes

 

Black and Blue (1973)

Black and Blue

5.9

TV Series

Ellie

1973

1 episode

 

High Kampf

TV Movie

1973

 

Rupert Davies in The Man Outside (1972)

The Man Outside

5.5

TV Series

Molly

1972

1 episode

 

Tales from the Lazy Acre

TV Series

Concepta Mahood

1972

1 episode

 

BBC Play of the Month (1965)

BBC Play of the Month

7.0

TV Series

Emma

1972

1 episode

 

Evin Crowley, Mary Larkin, Eamon Morrissey, and Aidan Murphy in The Sinners (1970)

The Sinners

TV Series

Joan Twomey

1971

1 episode

 

John Hurt in Sinful Davey (1969)

Sinful Davey

5.7

(uncredited)

1969

 

Deirdre

TV Movie

Third Musician

1965

 

Kim Novak in Of Human Bondage (1964)

Of Human Bondage

6.5

Bit Part (uncredited)

1964

 

Tolka Row (1964)

Tolka Row

TV Series

Joan Broderick

1964–1968

 

Thanks

Daniel Lamont and James Norton in Nowhere Special (2020)

Nowhere Special

7.4

thanks to

2020

 

Self

The Tommy Tiernan Show (2017)

The Tommy Tiernan Show

7.9

TV Series

Self

2021

1 episode

 

Living the Life (2011)

Living the Life

6.5

TV Series

Self

2012

1 episode

 

Muide Éire

6.9

Self

2011

 

Ryan Tubridy in Tubridy Tonight (2004)

Tubridy Tonight

5.6

TV Series

Self

2006

1 episode

 

Patrick Kielty in The Late Late Show (1962)

The Late Late Show

6.1

TV Series

Self

2004

1 episode

 

The 75th Annual Academy Awards (2003)

The 75th Annual Academy Awards

6.5

TV Special

Self - Past Winner

2003

 

The 70th Annual Academy Awards (1998)

The 70th Annual Academy Awards

6.8

TV Special

Self - Past Winner (uncredited)

1998

 

Pebble Mill at One (1972)

Pebble Mill at One

6.2

TV Series

Self

1995

1 episode

 

Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, and Daniel Stern in Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)

The Making of Home Alone 2: Lost in New York

7.1

TV Movie

Self

1992

 

Jo Maxi (1989)

Jo Maxi

TV Series

Self

1991

1 episode

 

The 63rd Annual Academy Awards (1991)

The 63rd Annual Academy Awards

6.3

TV Special

Self - Presenter

1991

 

Terry Wogan in Wogan (1982)

Wogan

6.2

TV Series

Self

1990–1991

2 episodes

 

Open Air (1986)

Open Air

6.8

TV Series

Self

1990

1 episode

 

The 62nd Annual Academy Awards (1990)

The 62nd Annual Academy Awards

6.4

TV Special

Self - Winner

1990

 

Angela Lansbury in The 47th Annual Golden Globe Awards 1990 (1990)

The 47th Annual Golden Globe Awards 1990

4.5

TV Special

Self - Nominee

1990

 

The 55th Annual New York Film Critics Awards

TV Special

Self - Nominee

1990

 

Archive Footage

The Sandlerverse 2 (2023)

The Sandlerverse 2

8.3

Short

May Mckenzie (archive footage)

2023

 

Doug Walker in The Nostalgia Critic (2007)

The Nostalgia Critic

7.5

TV Series

Self (archive footage)

2021

1 episode

 

Coronation Street: Compilations (2020)

Coronation Street: Compilations

6.9

TV Series

Self - Staff Nurse Maloney (archive footage)

2020

1 episode

 

Casualty (1986)

Casualty

6.2

TV Series

Megan Roach (archive footage, uncredited)

2015

1 episode

 

Catflap

6.4

Video

Self - Megan Roach (archive footage, uncredited)

2007

 

Making It at Holby

7.2

TV Movie

Self (archive footage)

2004

 

Reeling in the Years (1999)

Reeling in the Years

9.2

TV Series

SelfSelf - Bridget BrownSelf (archive footage, uncredited, archive footage, uncredited)

1999

2 episodes

 

Mary Jo “MJ” Shannon obit

Mary Jo “MJ” Shannon Dies: Kris Jenner’s Mom & The Kardashians’ Grandmother Was 91

 

She was not on the list.

Kris Jenner‘s mother, Mary Jo “MJ” Shannon, has died. She was 91.

In a post on social media, the Kardashian matriarch shared news that her mother had died on July 16.

“Today, we said goodbye to my beautiful Mommy MJ,” Jenner posted on Instagram. “There are no words that could ever capture what she has meant to me or the heartbreak of having to say goodbye.”

She continued, “My mom was the heart of our family. She taught me everything that truly matters… to love your family fiercely, to be kind, to show up for the people you love, and to never take a single moment together for granted. She taught us that family is everything. She showed us how to love unconditionally and how to find joy in the little moments. She showed me how to face life’s challenges with resilience and faith.”

MJ was featured on E!’s Keeping Up with the Kardashians throughout its run as well as Hulu’s The Kardashians. She was grandmother to Kim Kardashian, Kourtney Kardashian, Khloé Kardashian, Rob Kardashian, Kendall Jenner and Kylie Jenner.

“Mom, thank you for every sacrifice you made, every piece of wisdom you shared, and every moment you loved us so completely,” Jenner said in her post memorializing her mother. “I will miss our daily talks, your smile, your laughter… Our hearts are broken, but we find comfort knowing that love like yours never truly leaves us. Your love will live on in our family, in our traditions, in every moment we are together, and in every life you touched.”

Jenner noted that when she see’s her kids and grandkids, she see’s “pieces” of MJ in all of them, adding, “There is not a part of me that isn’t shaped by you. And if I have done anything right in this world, it’s because I spent my life trying to live in a way that would make you proud. Every memory, every moment, every blessing, it was all because of you, and I will forever thank God every single day for making you my mommy.”

“My heart is broken into a million pieces… thank you for giving me the greatest childhood and oh what a beautiful blessed life… I love you forever Mommy. Thank you for giving us everything,” she ended.

Guy Scott obit

Former Vice President Guy Scott dies at 82

 He was not on the list.

Former Republican Vice-President and Acting President Dr Guy Lindsay Scott has died at the age of 82, bringing to a close one of the most remarkable and unconventional political careers in Zambia’s post-independence history.

Dr Scott died today Wednesday 15th this afternoon. By press time, details surrounding the cause of his death and official funeral arrangements had not yet been announced.

Former Republican Vice-President Dr Nevers Mumba, who visited the funeral house shortly after receiving the news, confirmed the passing and called on Zambians to mourn the late statesman with dignity and national unity.

He appealed to politicians and citizens alike to refrain from using the period of mourning to advance partisan interests, saying the occasion should instead be one of reflection and respect for a man who devoted decades of his life to serving the country.

Dr Scott served as Zambia’s Vice-President from September 2011 until October 2014 under President Michael Sata. Following President Sata’s death on October 28, 2014, he assumed office as Acting President, steering the country through one of the most delicate constitutional transitions in its history until Edgar Lungu was sworn in after the January 2015 presidential by-election.

His appointment drew worldwide attention, making Zambia the focus of international headlines. Dr Scott became the first white person to serve as head of state in mainland Africa since the end of apartheid-era rule in South Africa. While many outside the country focused on that distinction, Dr Scott repeatedly maintained that he was simply a Zambian and regarded Zambia as the only home he had ever known.

Born in Livingstone on June 1, 1944, Dr Scott built a career that combined economics, farming, business and public service. Educated as an economist, he entered active politics during the reintroduction of multi-party democracy and was elected Member of Parliament for Mpika in 1991 under the Movement for Multi-Party Democracy (MMD). He later served as Minister of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries during the administration of President Frederick Chiluba.

After leaving the MMD, Dr Scott became one of the founding members of the Patriotic Front, working alongside Michael Sata to transform the party from a fledgling opposition movement into a formidable political force. His contribution to building the PF into a governing party remains one of the defining chapters of his political career.

Known for his sharp intellect, quick wit and often candid style, Dr Scott developed a reputation as one of Zambia’s most distinctive political figures. Admirers viewed him as refreshingly outspoken, while critics sometimes found his remarks controversial. Even so, few disputed his deep knowledge of public policy, agriculture and governance.

His tenure as Acting President coincided with intense political uncertainty as the Patriotic Front grappled with a succession battle following President Sata’s death. Despite the pressures of the moment, Zambia remained constitutionally stable, preserving its democratic tradition during a period closely watched both regionally and internationally.

Although constitutional provisions relating to the parentage of presidential candidates prevented him from contesting the 2015 presidential election, Dr Scott fulfilled his constitutional responsibility of overseeing the transition until a new Head of State was elected and peacefully assumed office.

His political career spanned more than three decades and witnessed many of the country’s defining democratic milestones, from the return of multi-party politics in 1991 to Zambia’s first peaceful transfer of power following the death of a sitting President. His influence extended beyond political office into agriculture, economic policy and national governance.

The passing of Dr Scott marks the loss of one of the last remaining architects of Zambia’s modern political landscape. Whether admired or criticised for his political positions, he occupied a unique place in the nation’s history and leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered as part of Zambia’s democratic journey.

Dr Scott is survived by his wife, Dr Charlotte Harland Scott, their children and grandchildren.

The Government and the Scott family are expected to announce the official funeral programme and burial arrangements in due course.

Hal Williams obit

Hal Williams Dies: ‘Sanford And Son’ Cop & ‘227’ Co-Star Was 91

 He was not on the list.

Veteran actor Hal Williams, who played Officer “Smitty” Smith on the hit 1970s comedy Sanford and Son and also starred on ’80s hit 227 during a long screen career, died July 15 at his home in Rancho Mirage, CA, according to his representative. He was 91.

As Smitty, Williams was one half of a crimefighting duo who appeared on 22 episodes of the classic 1972-77 NBC show adapted by Norman Lear from a British format. His partner, Officer “Hoppy” Hopkins — played by Howard Platt — would often lead off a scene with an “official” stiff police explanation of their investigation. Smitty would then interpret in plain English for Fred and Lamont — played by Redd Foxx and Demond Wilson, respectively.

For viewers, watching the duo walk into a scene was akin to seeing Aunt Esther appear: You knew something funny was about to happen.

Williams once told WKYC that the origins of the characters’ shtick came in rehearsal.

“We did it in one time in rehearsal, and the producers thought it was funny,” the actor recalled. “We did it in the first or second episode, and it clicked. Some days we would come to rehearsal and they didn’t have anything solid. [So the producers would say,] ‘Go out, take a break for two hours, and bring us something back.'”

He also appeared again as Smitty on five episodes of NBC’s Sanford in 1980, which saw Foxx return to the titular role.

Williams’ career stretched for the better part of six decades, and he worked steadily. Although his role on Sanford may be the most recognizable, he had even longer stints on ABC’s On the Rocks (24 episodes) and the full run of the Private Benjamin TV adaptation, on which he played the curmudgeonly Sgt. Ted Ross. Another extended stint came as Rudy Bryan on 20 episodes of The Sinbad Show.

From 1985-90, Williams was a key part of 227, on which he played Lester Jenkins, the husband of star Marla Gibbs’ Mary Hurley Jenkins. That show was a cultural touchstone as the only other Black middle-class family series on at the time besides The Cosby Show. The star-studded cast also included Helen Martin, Regina King, Jackée Harry, Paul Winfield and others.

Throughout his 55-year career, Williams earned guest appearances on TV staples such as That Girl, The Dick Van Dyke Show, Cannon, Police Woman, Gunsmoke, Police Story, Quincy M.E, Good Times, Knots Landing, The Waltons, The Dukes of Hazzard, Webster, Hill Street Blues, Magnum P.I., Night Court, L.A. Law, Suddenly Susan, Moesha and Parks and Recreation.

Most recently, he made two special guest appearances on the rebooted Matlock starring Kathy Bates. He recurred as “Autry,” a local resident whose testimony impacts the firm’s cases.

On the big screen, Williams appeared opposite George C. Scott in Paul Schrader’s Hardcore, alongside Clint Eastwood in The Rookie, with James Earl Jones, Billy Dee Williams and Courtney B. Vance in Percy & Thunder, opposite Ashton Kutcher, Bernie Mac and Zoe Saldaña in Guess Who and as Denzel Washington’s father in Flight.

The actor was a longtime board member of the Los Angeles Actors’ Theatre (LAAT) founded by Ralph Waite. Decades ago, Williams established the Mark K.A. Williams Memorial Scholarship Foundation to provide funds to students of color pursuing college degrees in television/communications. The Foundation is named for the actor’s late son, Mark, a broadcasting major, who died on a camping trip in the Angeles National Forest at 20 years old.

Williams is survived by two children, three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by Mark.

Actor

Kathy Bates, Jason Ritter, Leah Lewis, David Del Rio, and Skye P. Marshall in Matlock (2024)

Matlock

7.5

TV Series

AutryAutry Tucker

2024–2025

2 episodes

 

Goodnight, My Love (2024)

Goodnight, My Love

Short

Present Alvin

2024

 

Holly Hunter, Ted Danson, Bobby Moynihan, Kyla Kenedy, Mike Cabellon, and Vella Lovell in Mr. Mayor (2021)

Mr. Mayor

6.4

TV Series

Walt

2022

1 episode

 

Disintegration (2020)

Disintegration

5.9

Video Game

Waggoner (voice)

2020

 

Lea Michele and Brandon Micheal Hall in The Mayor (2017)

The Mayor

5.8

TV Series

Mr. Benning

2017

1 episode

 

Adam Scott, Rashida Jones, Jim O'Heir, Nick Offerman, Amy Poehler, Chris Pratt, Retta, Aziz Ansari, and Aubrey Plaza in Parks and Recreation (2009)

Parks and Recreation

8.6

TV Series

Albert Meagle

2015

1 episode

 

Marla Gibbs, Christopher B. Duncan, Jackée Harry, Gladys Knight, Michael D. Roberts, Kellita Smith, John Witherspoon, Yara Shahidi, Khylin Rhambo, and Layla Crawford in The First Family (2012)

The First Family

3.6

TV Series

George

2013

1 episode

 

Denzel Washington, Don Cheadle, John Goodman, Kelly Reilly, and Jacqueline Marie Zwick in Flight (2012)

Flight

7.3

Whip's Dad (voice)

2012

 

Night Club (2011)

Night Club

5.8

Resident Playing Cards at Casino Night

2011

 

Tom Cavanagh and Ashley Williams in Snow 2: Brain Freeze (2008)

Snow 2: Brain Freeze

6.1

TV Movie

Henry Mays

2008

 

Edward Asner, Rue McClanahan, and Alex Black in Generation Gap (2008)

Generation Gap

6.6

TV Movie

Mac

2008

 

Moonlight (2007)

Moonlight

7.6

TV Series

70-Year-Old Det. Bobby Desmond

2007

1 episode

 

Ashton Kutcher and Bernie Mac in Guess Who (2005)

Guess Who

5.9

Howard Jones

2005

 

Brandy Norwood in Moesha (1996)

Moesha

6.0

TV Series

Rosevelt Mitchell

1997

1 episode

 

James Coburn, Burt Reynolds, Ernie Hudson, Gregory Hines, Sinbad, and A Martinez in The Cherokee Kid (1996)

The Cherokee Kid

6.0

TV Movie

Rev. Peel

1996

 

Brooke Shields, Judd Nelson, Eric Idle, Nestor Carbonell, Rob Estes, Kathy Griffin, Barbara Barrie, Currie Graham, and Sherri Shepherd in Suddenly Susan (1996)

Suddenly Susan

5.9

TV Series

Jim

1996

1 episode

 

Linda Kash, Bobby E. McAdams II, Wendy Raquel Robinson, Sara Rue, Rondell Sheridan, Mitchell Whitfield, and Camille Winbush in Minor Adjustments (1995)

Minor Adjustments

7.0

TV Series

Nathaniel Aimes

1996

1 episode

 

Jennifer Grey, Shirley MacLaine, Kathy Bates, and Liza Minnelli in The West Side Waltz (1995)

The West Side Waltz

5.8

TV Movie

Jonno

1995

 

Tales from the Crypt (1989)

Tales from the Crypt

8.0

TV Series

Nick Ciola

1994

1 episode

 

Sinbad in The Sinbad Show (1993)

The Sinbad Show

6.2

TV Series

Rudy Bryan

1993–1994

20 episodes

 

Percy & Thunder (1993)

Percy & Thunder

6.2

TV Movie

Jiti Kalumbi

1993

 

L.A. Law (1986)

L.A. Law

7.1

TV Series

Councilman Marcus Cooke

1992

1 episode

 

Harry Anderson, Selma Diamond, Ellen Foley, John Larroquette, Charles Robinson, and Richard Moll in Night Court (1984)

Night Court

7.7

TV Series

Head Bailiff Reedy

1991

1 episode

 

Clint Eastwood and Charlie Sheen in The Rookie (1990)

The Rookie

5.9

Powell

1990

 

Marla Gibbs, Regina King, Curtis Baldwin, Kia Goodwin, Alaina Reed-Hall, Jackée Harry, Helen Martin, and Hal Williams in 227 (1985)

227

6.8

TV Series

Lester Jenkins

1985–1990

115 episodes

 

Tom Selleck in Magnum, P.I. (1980)

Magnum, P.I.

7.5

TV Series

Dave, the DJ

1988

2 episodes

 

Robert Clohessy, Michael Warren, and Bruce Weitz in Hill Street Blues (1981)

Hill Street Blues

8.2

TV Series

Ken Edwards

1986

1 episode

 

Nell Carter in Gimme a Break! (1981)

Gimme a Break!

6.5

TV Series

Dr. Phil Gray

1984

1 episode

 

Sherman Hemsley and Isabel Sanford in The Jeffersons (1975)

The Jeffersons

7.5

TV Series

Kent TobinMichael

1977–1984

2 episodes

 

Susan Clark, Alex Karras, and Emmanuel Lewis in Webster (1983)

Webster

5.8

TV Series

Principal Jenkins

1984

1 episode

 

Catherine Bach, Ben Jones, Denver Pyle, John Schneider, and Tom Wopat in The Dukes of Hazzard (1979)

The Dukes of Hazzard

7.1

TV Series

Jonas Jones

1984

1 episode

 

The Young Landlords (1983)

The Young Landlords

TV Movie

Mr. Williams

1983

 

ABC Afterschool Specials (1972)

ABC Afterschool Specials

7.2

TV Series

Mr. CarterTony Grant

1981–1983

2 episodes

 

ABC Weekend Specials (1977)

ABC Weekend Specials

7.8

TV Series

George Stowe

1983

1 episode

 

Private Benjamin (1981)

Private Benjamin

6.2

TV Series

Sgt. Ted Ross

1981–1983

39 episodes

 

Teri Garr, Raul Julia, Desi Arnaz, and Griffin O'Neal in The Escape Artist (1982)

The Escape Artist

6.1

Cop at Mayor's Office

1982

 

T.J. Hooker (1982)

T.J. Hooker

6.1

TV Series

Officer Brian

1982

1 episode

 

Redd Foxx in Sanford (1980)

Sanford

6.7

TV Series

Officer 'Smitty' Smith

1980–1981

5 episodes

 

Don't Look Back: The Story of Leroy 'Satchel' Paige (1981)

Don't Look Back: The Story of Leroy 'Satchel' Paige

6.7

TV Movie

Roberts

1981

 

Thirsty Workers

TV Series

(voice)

1981

 

Richard Thomas, Will Geer, Judy Norton, Ellen Corby, Kami Cotler, David W. Harper, Michael Learned, Mary Beth McDonough, Eric Scott, Ralph Waite, and Jon Walmsley in The Waltons (1972)

The Waltons

7.6

TV Series

Harley Foster

1973–1980

7 episodes

 

Goldie Hawn in Private Benjamin (1980)

Private Benjamin

6.2

Sgt. L.C. Ross

1980

 

William Devane, Nicollette Sheridan, Kevin Dobson, Donna Mills, Joan Van Ark, Michele Lee, and Ted Shackelford in Knots Landing (1979)

Knots Landing

7.0

TV Series

Store Owner

1980

2 episodes

 

On the Nickel (1980)

On the Nickel

7.3

Paul

1980

 

Michael J. Fox, Bill Duke, and Beeson Carroll in Palmerstown, U.S.A. (1980)

Palmerstown, U.S.A.

7.4

TV Series

Clarence

1980

1 episode

 

The Sky Is Gray (1980)

The Sky Is Gray

7.4

TV Movie

Preacber

1980

 

The White Shadow (1978)

The White Shadow

8.0

TV Series

Henry Judd

1979

1 episode

 

What's Happening!! (1976)

What's Happening!!

7.1

TV Series

Mr. Logan

1979

1 episode

 

James Earl Jones, Debbie Allen, Irene Cara, Dorian Harewood, Debbi Morgan, Georg Stanford Brown, Avon Long, and Beah Richards in Roots: The Next Generations (1979)

Roots: The Next Generations

7.8

TV Mini Series

Aleck Haley

1979

1 episode

 

George C. Scott in Hardcore (1979)

Hardcore

7.1

Big Dick Blaque

1979

 

Thou Shalt Not Commit Adultery (1978)

Thou Shalt Not Commit Adultery

4.4

TV Movie

Boneyard

1978

 

John Amos, Ralph Carter, Ja'net DuBois, Esther Rolle, BernNadette Stanis, and Jimmie 'JJ' Walker in Good Times (1974)

Good Times

7.4

TV Series

TomFrank MitchellWillie Washington

1974–1978

3 episodes

 

Off the Wall

TV Movie

Mother

1977

 

Jack Klugman in Quincy, M.E. (1976)

Quincy, M.E.

7.3

TV Series

Cody

1977

1 episode

 

Jo Ann Harris, Shelly Novack, and Robert Stack in Most Wanted (1976)

Most Wanted

6.8

TV Series

Rashad

1977

1 episode

 

Redd Foxx and Demond Wilson in Sanford and Son (1972)

Sanford and Son

7.9

TV Series

Officer 'Smitty' Smith

1972–1977

20 episodes

 

Robert Forster, David Birney, and Richard E. Kalk in Police Story (1973)

Police Story

7.5

TV Series

Little JoeMarshall Rhodes

1973–1977

2 episodes

 

Rick Hurst in On the Rocks (1975)

On the Rocks

7.3

TV Series

Lester DeMott

1975–1976

24 episodes

 

S.W.A.T. (1975)

S.W.A.T.

6.8

TV Series

Bo Tate

1975

1 episode

 

David Carradine in Kung Fu (1972)

Kung Fu

7.6

TV Series

Caleb Brown

1973–1975

2 episodes

 

Carl Franklin and Stacy Keach in Caribe (1975)

Caribe

6.6

TV Series

Tom Clayburn

1975

1 episode

 

Gunsmoke (1955)

Gunsmoke

8.1

TV Series

Widge Spott

1975

1 episode

 

David Janssen in Harry O (1973)

Harry O

7.6

TV Series

ClarenceSgt. Earl Danning

1974–1975

3 episodes

 

Angie Dickinson in Police Woman (1974)

Police Woman

6.6

TV Series

George Thomas

1974

1 episode

 

Sidekicks (1974)

Sidekicks

6.9

TV Movie

Max

1974

 

William Conrad in Cannon (1971)

Cannon

6.8

TV Series

Arthur JonesGen. O'Hara's DoormanChauffeur

1971–1974

3 episodes

 

Herbie Rides Again (1974)

Herbie Rides Again

5.7

Policeman Writing Ticket

1974

 

Bill Bixby in The Magician (1973)

The Magician

7.4

TV Series

Jonathan Gordon

1973

1 episode

 

Cleavon Little, Joan Van Ark, Nancy Fox, Reva Rose, and James Whitmore in Temperatures Rising (1972)

Temperatures Rising

7.3

TV Series

1973

1 episode

 

Dick Van Dyke, Hope Lange, and Angela Powell in The New Dick Van Dyke Show (1971)

The New Dick Van Dyke Show

6.7

TV Series

Pete

1972

1 episode

 

Cool Breeze (1972)

Cool Breeze

5.4

Harry, Policeman (uncredited)

1972

 

The Jimmy Stewart Show (1971)

The Jimmy Stewart Show

7.3

TV Series

Quigley

1971

1 episode

 

That Girl (1966)

That Girl

7.3

TV Series

JohnHerbie RobinsonCourt Clerk

1970–1971

3 episodes

 

Burt Reynolds and Norman Fell in Dan August (1970)

Dan August

7.1

TV Series

Charity

1970

1 episode

 

John Wayne, Ann-Margret, William Shatner, Lucille Ball, Jack Benny, Bing Crosby, Lorne Greene, Bob Hope, Michael Landon, Dean Martin, Roscoe Lee Browne, Celeste Holm, Glen Campbell, Dan Blocker, Johnny Cash, Roy Clark, Phyllis Diller, Stan Harris, Paul Keyes, Ross Martin, Greg Morris, David Nelson, Ricky Nelson, Hugh O'Brian, Dan Rowan, Red Skelton, Tom Smothers, Leslie Uggams, and Dennis Weaver in Swing Out, Sweet Land (1970)

Swing Out, Sweet Land

7.3

TV Movie

Man Representing Iowa (uncredited)

1970

 

Worthy to Stand (1969)

Worthy to Stand

7.7

Short

1969

 

Self

DaMya Gurley, Tamara Jade, Robin Thede, Gabrielle Dennis, Angel Laketa Moore, and Skye Townsend in A Black Lady Sketch Show (2019)

A Black Lady Sketch Show

7.5

TV Series

Self

2019

1 episode

 

American Masters (1985)

American Masters

8.2

TV Series

Self

2016

1 episode

 

Ian Foxx and Ron Brewington in The Actor's Choice (2015)

The Actor's Choice

7.9

TV Series

Self

2016

1 episode

 

Norman Lear and Keaton Nigel Cooke in Norman Lear: Just Another Version of You (2016)

Norman Lear: Just Another Version of You

7.3

Self

2016

 

Earl Hamner Storyteller (2015)

Earl Hamner Storyteller

8.9

Self

2015

 

Unsung Hollywood (2014)

Unsung Hollywood

8.0

TV Series

Self

2015

1 episode

 

Hoda Kotb and Savannah Guthrie in Today (1952)

Today

4.6

TV Series

Self

2010

1 episode

 

Black to the Future (2009)

Black to the Future

7.5

TV Series

Self

2009

 

227: Stories from the Stoop

Video

Self

2004

 

The Annual Women in Film Luminas Awards

TV Special

Self

1986

 

The 2nd Annual Black Achievement Awards (1979)

The 7th Annual Black Achievement Awards

TV Special

Self

1985

 

The NBC All Star Hour

7.0

TV Special

Self

1985

 

The 8th Annual People's Choice Awards

3.8

TV Special

Self - Accepting Award for Favourite New Comedy TV Program

1982

 

The John Davidson Show (1980)

The John Davidson Show

4.7

TV Series

Self

1982

1 episode

 

Archive Footage

Guess Who: Deleted Scenes (2005)

Guess Who: Deleted Scenes

5.0

Video

Howard Jones (archive footage)

2005

 

50 Years of Funny Females

4.6

TV Movie

Self (archive footage)

1995

 

Hollywood: The Gift of Laughter (1982)

Hollywood: The Gift of Laughter

7.8

TV Movie

Self - Actor - 'Private Benjamin' (archive footage, uncredited)

1982

 

Walt Disney in The Magical World of Disney (1954)

The Magical World of Disney

8.3

TV Series

(archive footage)

1981

2 episodes

 

Michael Parkinson in Parkinson (1971)

Parkinson

7.3

TV Series

Sgt. L.C. Ross (archive footage)

1981

1 episode