`The Jeffersons` star Sherman Hemsley found dead at his home

Los Angeles: Actor Sherman Hemsley, who is best known for his portrayal of George Jefferson in 1970`s "All in the Family" and its spin-off "The Jeffersons", has died. He was 74.

The police confirmed that the actor was found "without signs of life" at his home in The El Paso, Texas, the Ace Showbiz reported. The cause of death is not known yet. Hemsley was unmarried and had no children. Norman Lear, producer of "The Jeffersons" and "All in the Family", remembered Hemsley as a immensely talented actor. "When the Jeffersons moved in next door to the Bunkers, I wanted to deliver the George Jefferson who could stand up to Archie Bunker. The minute he opened his mouth he was George Jefferson," he said. Hemsley`s co-star Marla Gibbs said, "Sherman was one of the most generous co-stars I have ever worked with. He happily set me up so that I could slam him, and I did the same for him. I shall miss him deeply." Gibbs played the Jeffersons` mouthy maid, Florence Johnston, in the show. Besides acting, Hemsley pursued career in music. He released a single `Ain`t That a Kick in the Head` in 1989, and planned to tour in musical "Ain`t Misbehavin" with longtime friend Jackee Harry. PTI IANS