LaWanda Page

LaWanda Page (born Alberta Richmond; October 19, 1920 – September 14, 2002) was an American actress, comedian and dancer whose career spanned six decades. Crowned “The Queen of Comedy” or “The Black Queen of Comedy”, Page melded blue humor, signifyin’ and observational comedy with jokes about sexuality, race relations, African-American culture and religion. She released five solo albums, including the 1977 gold-selling Watch It, Sucker!, and collaborated on two albums with the comedy group Skillet, Leroy & Co. As an actress, Page is best known for portraying the Bible-toting and sharp-tongued Esther Anderson on the popular television sitcom Sanford and Son, which aired from 1972 until 1977. Page reprised the role in the short-lived television shows Sanford Arms (1976–1977) and Sanford (1980–1981). She also costarred in the 1979 short-lived series Detective School. Throughout her career, Page advocated for fair pay and equal opportunities for black performers.