Debraca Denise is best known as the adopted daughter of legendary comedian Redd Foxx, the star of the classic TV show “Sanford and Son.” While her father became one of America’s most famous entertainers, Debraca chose a different path. She has lived most of her life away from the spotlight, keeping her personal affairs private while managing her father’s legacy behind the scenes.
Detailed Bio Table
| Full Name | Debraca Denise (Debraca Denise Foxx) |
|---|---|
| Birth Year | 1947 |
| Birthplace | United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Biological Mother | Betty Jean Harris |
| Adoptive Father | Redd Foxx (John Elroy Sanford) |
| Spouse | Ralph Russell (married June 1975) |
| Children | One son, Paul Hiles |
| Known For | Being Redd Foxx’s adopted daughter, Estate executor |
| Occupation | Former actress, Estate administrator |
| Notable Appearances | Sanford and Son (1977), Sanford (1980), Unsung Hollywood (2015) |
Early Life and Adoption
Debraca was born to Betty Jean Harris, a talented singer and showgirl who performed in nightclubs. Her life changed when her mother met Redd Foxx at a nightclub where both were performing. They married in July 1956, and nine-year-old Debraca was officially adopted by Redd, taking the Foxx surname.
This adoption brought her into a world of Hollywood stars and comedy legends. Betty Jean left her performing career to become a housewife and later managed Redd’s business affairs during his career peak.
Life with Redd Foxx
Redd Foxx, born John Elroy Sanford, was one of America’s most influential comedians. He became famous for his role as Fred G. Sanford in “Sanford and Son” (1972-1978), which made him a household name.
As his adopted daughter, Debraca witnessed both the exciting successes and difficult challenges of show business. Their relationship was built on genuine love. However, when Redd and Betty’s marriage ended in 1974 after 18 years, it created family tension. The divorce was difficult and temporarily affected Debraca’s relationship with her father.
Marriage and Family Life
Debraca married Ralph Russell, a Los Angeles businessman, in June 1975 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel. The grand ceremony cost $40,000. However, Redd Foxx did not attend due to lingering bitterness from his divorce from Betty Harris.
Despite this difficult start, Debraca and Ralph built a strong marriage lasting nearly 50 years. They have one son, Paul Hiles, who is now married with children. Debraca and Redd later reconciled, repairing their father-daughter bond.
Today, the family lives quietly in the United States, consistently avoiding media attention and valuing their privacy.
Brief Career in Entertainment
Unlike her famous father, Debraca never pursued a long career in show business. She appeared in one episode of “Sanford and Son” in 1977 as Doris Martin and had a small role in its sequel “Sanford” (1980). Her last public appearance was in 2015 on “Unsung Hollywood,” a documentary about influential Black entertainers.
Managing Redd Foxx’s Estate
When Redd Foxx died in October 1991 at age 68 from a heart attack on set, Debraca faced her biggest challenge. He had died without a will, and the estate owed $3.5 million in taxes to the IRS.
Debraca was appointed executor but faced disputes with Redd’s fourth wife, Ka Ho Cho, whom he had married just two months before his death. Ka Ho Cho claimed Debraca mishandled money from licensing deals and royalties.
In 2006, a Nevada court appointed a public administrator to manage the estate. The main asset was the rights to Redd’s life story. Through these challenges, Debraca showed dedication to protecting her father’s legacy.
Life Today
Debraca Denise continues living privately, successfully avoiding interviews and public appearances for years. Fans of Redd Foxx remain interested in her story because “Sanford and Son” is still watched by new generations.
Her story is one of quiet strength. She grew up in fame’s shadow but never let it define her. She built her own life while honoring her father’s memory privately, balancing legacy with her desire for a peaceful family life.
Conclusion
Debraca Denise’s life shows us that being connected to fame does not mean you must live in public view. As the adopted daughter of comedy legend Redd Foxx, she experienced both the excitement of Hollywood and the challenges that came with it. Through family struggles, estate battles, and public interest, she has remained committed to privacy and family values. Her story reminds us that behind every famous person, there are family members who carry their own stories, make their own choices, and seek happiness in their own ways.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is Debraca Denise?
Debraca Denise is the adopted daughter of famous comedian Redd Foxx, known for the TV show “Sanford and Son.” She was born in 1947 and adopted by Redd when he married her mother, Betty Jean Harris, in 1956.
2. Is Debraca Denise still alive?
Yes, Debraca Denise is believed to be alive and living privately in the United States with her husband Ralph Russell. There are no public records of her death.
3. Who did Debraca Denise marry?
She married Ralph Russell, a Los Angeles businessman, in June 1975. They had a large wedding at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel. They are still married today and have been together for nearly 50 years.
4. Did Debraca Denise have children?
Yes, Debraca and Ralph Russell have one son named Paul Hiles. Paul is now married and has children of his own, making Debraca a grandmother.
5. What happened to Redd Foxx’s estate?
After Redd Foxx died in 1991 without a will, his estate faced a $3.5 million tax debt to the IRS. Debraca was appointed executor but faced legal disputes with Redd’s fourth wife. A public administrator was later appointed to manage the estate and settle the debts.
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