Gregory Sierra, ‘Sanford and Son’ and ‘Barney Miller’ Star, Dies at 83

Born Gregory Joseph Sierra on January 25, 1937 in Manhattan’s Spanish Harlem, he was raised by an aunt. Of Puerto Rican heritage, he later served in the U.S. Air Force before pursuing acting—landing his first role after accompanying a friend to an audition and getting noticed himself.

He was best known for his standout roles on the 1970s sitcoms Sanford and Son, where he played Julio Fuentes, and Barney Miller, portraying Detective Chano Amengual. Over the decades, he made memorable appearances on a wide range of popular television shows, including All in the Family, Hawaii Five-O, The X-Files, Miami Vice, and The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.

At the time of his death, Sierra’s estimated net worth was around $2 million, per Celebrity Net Worth.

Personal Life

The actor’s personal life was marked by both love and heartache. He was first married to Eileen Defelitta from 1969 until 1972. A few years later, he married Susan Pollock in 1976. Tragically, their time together was cut short when Susan died by suicide in January 1978.

In later years, he found lasting companionship with Helene Tabor. The couple shared a quiet life together in Laguna Woods, California, far removed from the bustle of Hollywood. Helene remained by his side until his passing.

Later Years & Death

Sierra passed away on January 4, 2021 at age 83—just three weeks shy of his 84th birthday—from complications related to stomach and liver cancer, as confirmed by his wife Helene Tabor