Sherman Hemsley, best known for his work as George Jefferson on the CBS hit series "The Jeffersons," has passed away today in El Paso, according to TMZ. The television actor was discovered by his nurse, who had initially assumed he was asleep.

Upon the realization that something was not right, she immediately called for assistance. Although the reason for his death has not been diagnosed as of yet, it seems that the 74 year-old died from natural causes.

Born in South Philadelphia, Hemsley had been solely raised by his factory worker mother. He eventually left school to enroll in the Air Force, where he went on to serve for four years. Soon after, the sitcom star landed a job for the Post Office during the daytime and began taking acting lessons by night.

After starting his early career on stage, Hemsley later became well-known on the hit show "All in the Family," which is what led him to his infamous role on its spin-off, "The Jeffersons." He later continued as Ernest Frye, a church deacon on NBC's "Amen" in 1986.

Three years later, Hemsley unsuccessfully tried his hand in music by releasing a single in 1989 called "Ain't That A Kick In The Head." Although he made a few appearances on television in the late 90's and early 2000's, the actor had since been retired.

The late actor is not survived by a wife or any kids. However, our prayers and condolences do go out to the rest of his family.

Tags
Television, Celebrities