Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Hal Williams

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: July 16, 2026

From career breakthroughs to professional milestones, explore how Hal Williams made an impact.

Hal Williams is an accomplished American actor best recognized for his prolific television career spanning several decades. He is most famous for his recurring role as Lester Jenkins on the hit sitcom 227, where he showcased his comedic timing and screen presence. Williams also garnered significant attention for his portrayal of Police Officer Smith on the popular series Sanford and Son. His filmography includes a variety of guest appearances and supporting roles in both television and cinema throughout the 1970s, 1980s, and beyond. Throughout his professional life, Williams has been praised for his ability to bring warmth and reliability to his characters, making him a familiar and respected face in classic American television. His body of work remains a notable contribution to the landscape of 20th-century sitcoms and family-oriented programming.

Sections (2)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements

1968: Relocation to Hollywood to Pursue Acting

In 1968, after previously working as a postal worker and a corrections officer, Hal Williams moved to Hollywood to dedicate himself to a professional acting career.

1970: Beginning of full-time acting career

In 1970, Hal Williams made the professional decision to dedicate himself entirely to his acting career.

1972: Beginning of role on Sanford and Son

In 1972, Hal Williams began his recurring role as Police Officer Smith, also known as Smitty, on the television series Sanford and Son.

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1973: Guest appearance on Kung Fu

In 1973, Hal Williams appeared as a guest star in the second-season premiere of the television series Kung Fu, portraying the character Caleb, who is a friend of Caine.

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1973: Beginning of role on The Waltons

Starting in 1973, Hal Williams took on the role of Harley Foster in the long-running series The Waltons.

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1975: Return to the role of Caleb

In 1975, Hal Williams reprised his character role of Caleb during the 24th episode of the third season of the television series Kung Fu.

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1976: Conclusion of role on Sanford and Son

In 1976, Hal Williams concluded his time portraying the character Smitty on the show Sanford and Son.

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1980: Film appearance in Private Benjamin

In 1980, Hal Williams appeared in the film Private Benjamin.

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1985: Debut of sitcom 227

In 1985, Hal Williams began his role as Lester Jenkins on the NBC sitcom 227.

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1990: Appearance in The Rookie

In 1990, Hal Williams appeared in the action film The Rookie, which was directed by and starred Clint Eastwood.

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1990: Conclusion of 227

The run of the television sitcom 227, featuring Hal Williams as Lester Jenkins, ended in 1990.

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2005: Film appearance in Guess Who

Hal Williams was featured in the 2005 film titled Guess Who.

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2005: Role in Guess Who

In 2005, Hal Williams appeared in the feature film Guess Who, where he took on the supporting role of Howard Jones, the father of the character portrayed by Bernie Mac.

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