LIMBO: Sherman Hemsley
Sherman Hemsley’s George Jefferson was “movin’ on up” — but Hemsley’s journey 6 feet under has been delayed.
The actor, who died July 24 at the age of 74, still hasn’t been buried — and his body remains on ice in an El Paso, Texas, funeral home while his will is being contested.
A man named Richard Thornton, who lives in Philadelphia, has claimed to be Hemsley’s brother.
He says that Hemsley’s will — in which he left an estate valued at $50,000 to his longtime friend and manager, Flora Enchinton — might not have been made by Hemsley, and vows to contest it in court, according to reports.
Enchinton, 56, told the Associated Press that she knew Hemsley for more than 20 years and lived with him and his friend Kenny Johnston.
During that time, “The Jeffersons” star never mentioned any family members to her, Enchinton said.
Hemsley, who was born in Philadelphia, originated the role of gruff, opinionated George Jefferson on “All in the Family,” and played him on “The Jeffersons” opposite Isabel Sanford (“Weezy”) for 10 years (1975-85).
He also starred as Deacon Ernest Frye on the NBC sitcom “Amen” from 1986-91.
Hemsley signed his will six weeks before his death from lung cancer, according to reports.
“It is disgraceful,” Enchinton told local TV station KVIA. “It is sad. This was a man with dignity.
“This is not what Sherman would have wanted.”