Ka Ho Cho is best remembered as the final wife of legendary comedian Redd Foxx, whose wit and groundbreaking role in Sanford and Son made him a household name. Though her time in the spotlight was brief, Cho’s story remains one of resilience, devotion, and quiet dignity. Unlike many associated with Hollywood, she stepped away from fame after Foxx’s sudden death, choosing privacy over publicity. Her journey—from South Korea to Las Vegas, and finally into the heart of a comedy icon—continues to intrigue fans who search for answers about the woman behind Foxx’s final chapter.
Quick Bio
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ka Ho Cho |
| Year of Birth | 1959 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 66 years old |
| Birthplace | Seoul, South Korea |
| Nationality | South Korean |
| Ethnicity | Asian |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Occupation | Former Las Vegas dancer |
| Marital Status | Widow |
| Husband | Redd Foxx (m. 1991 – d. 1991) |
| Children | None (Redd Foxx adopted Debraca Denise earlier) |
| Height | Approx. 5’5” (165 cm) |
| Weight | Approx. 63 kg |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Current Status | Believed to be living privately, away from media spotlight |
Early Life and Background
Ka Ho Cho was born in 1959 in Seoul, South Korea. She is of Asian ethnicity, holds South Korean nationality, and is believed to have been raised in a Christian household. Beyond these basic details, very little is publicly known about her childhood or family background. This lack of information has only fueled curiosity, as her private upbringing contrasts sharply with the celebrity world she later married into.
Like many immigrants of her era, she may have come to the United States in search of better opportunities, a new life, or simply to pursue her passion for entertainment. While specifics remain unknown, her journey from Seoul to the dazzling lights of Las Vegas suggests a woman willing to take risks and carve her own path in a foreign land.
Career in Entertainment Before Redd Foxx
Before meeting Redd Foxx, Ka Ho Cho worked as a dancer in Las Vegas during the 1980s. Las Vegas has long been a global entertainment hub, known for its competitive and high-pressure performance industry. To earn a place on stage in such an environment required both skill and determination, suggesting that Cho possessed not only natural talent but also the discipline needed to succeed.
Her work would have brought her into contact with entertainers, comedians, and celebrities who frequented the Vegas scene. Those who knew her described her as graceful, elegant, and committed to her craft. While details about specific shows or venues she performed in remain scarce, her career in dance served as the gateway that eventually introduced her to one of the most influential comedians of the 20th century.
Meeting Redd Foxx
Ka Ho Cho first met Redd Foxx at Bally’s Hotel in Las Vegas in the late 1980s. At the time, Foxx was in his late 60s, while Cho was in her early 30s, making their age gap more than three decades. Despite these differences in age, culture, and background, the two formed a bond that grew quickly.
Their relationship dynamic was unique: Foxx was known for his loud, brash comedic persona, while Cho was quieter and more reserved. Friends of the comedian noticed that she brought a sense of calmness into his life. Unlike his previous wives, Ka Ho Cho seemed to offer him stability at a time when he was struggling with health and financial issues. Their connection was proof that love often defies expectations, bridging gaps that might otherwise seem insurmountable.
Marriage to Redd Foxx
The couple married in July 1991 in a private ceremony. Their union surprised many because of the significant age difference—Foxx was 68 years old, and Cho was just 32. Despite public skepticism, the marriage was built on companionship and mutual support rather than celebrity glitz. Unfortunately, their time together was clouded by challenges. Foxx was facing serious health concerns and mounting financial troubles, including millions in tax debt owed to the IRS. Even with these difficulties, Ka Ho Cho remained by his side, caring for him and offering emotional strength. Their marriage, though short-lived, was marked by Cho’s loyalty and devotion during what turned out to be the final chapter of Foxx’s life.
Who Was Redd Foxx?
To understand Ka Ho Cho’s significance, it is essential to know who Redd Foxx was. Born John Elroy Sanford in 1922, Foxx rose from modest beginnings to become one of the most iconic comedians in American history. He gained fame in the 1970s as Fred Sanford in the hit television sitcom Sanford and Son, a role that broke barriers for African-American actors in mainstream television. Known for his raw, edgy humor and groundbreaking stand-up routines, Foxx became a household name and a pioneer in comedy.
His influence extended far beyond television; many modern comedians credit him for shaping their careers. Despite his success, Foxx often lived extravagantly, and his financial mismanagement left him vulnerable to debt. By the time he married Ka Ho Cho, his career was still celebrated, but his personal life was filled with struggles.
Redd Foxx’s Death and Its Impact on Ka Ho Cho
Tragedy struck just three months after their wedding. On October 11, 1991, Redd Foxx suffered a fatal heart attack while rehearsing for his new television show, The Royal Family. He collapsed on set, and despite efforts to save him, he passed away at the age of 68. The news shocked fans across the country, but for Ka Ho Cho, the loss was devastating on a deeply personal level.
She had barely begun her new life as a wife, only to be thrust into widowhood overnight. While the world mourned the death of a comedy legend, Cho faced a private heartbreak, compounded by the media frenzy surrounding Foxx’s passing. The sudden loss shaped the rest of her life, as she stepped back from public attention to grieve and rebuild in her own quiet way.
Legal and Financial Struggles After His Death
Foxx’s death left behind not only emotional devastation but also significant financial turmoil. At the time of his passing, he owed the IRS more than $3 million in unpaid taxes. Much of his estate was seized to cover these debts, leaving little for his widow. Ka Ho Cho found herself at the center of estate disputes and legal proceedings that played out in the public eye. She had to navigate a complicated situation in which creditors, lawyers, and family members were all fighting over Foxx’s remaining assets. The financial instability added enormous stress to an already painful loss, forcing Cho to confront not only grief but also harsh economic realities.
Relationship with Debraca Denise
Another source of tension in Cho’s life after Foxx’s death was her relationship with Debraca Denise, Foxx’s adopted daughter from his second marriage. Debraca had been legally recognized as Foxx’s only child, and when he passed, she became his primary heir. This created conflict between her and Ka Ho Cho over inheritance issues and control of the estate. Media outlets reported on the strained dynamic, painting a picture of family disputes fueled by money, debts, and unresolved emotions. For Cho, this was yet another reminder of how complicated life becomes when private matters intersect with public fame. Their rocky relationship highlighted the broader lesson that behind celebrity legacies often lie bitter family and financial struggles.
Life After Redd Foxx – Where Is Ka Ho Cho Now?
After Foxx’s death, Ka Ho Cho largely disappeared from public view. Unlike many widows of celebrities who remain in the spotlight, she chose privacy and distance from Hollywood. Reports suggest that she eventually returned to South Korea, preferring a quiet and dignified life far from media attention. She has not given interviews, written memoirs, or sought to capitalize on her connection to Redd Foxx. Instead, she has quietly focused on preserving his memory in her own way. Her decision to step away from fame demonstrates both strength and independence, making her an even more mysterious and respected figure.
Public Perception and Legacy
Though she avoids publicity, Ka Ho Cho remains an important figure in Redd Foxx’s legacy. Fans remember her as the woman who was by his side during his last months, offering companionship and care. Her life represents the private, often hidden side of celebrity stories—the sacrifices and struggles that never make it into headlines. The media occasionally revisits her story, usually framing her as a mysterious figure who chose dignity over drama. In many ways, her legacy lies not in what she has said or done publicly, but in what she has chosen not to do: she never exploited Foxx’s name or their brief marriage for fame or wealth.
Net Worth and Financial Status
At the time of Redd Foxx’s death, the comedian’s financial situation was dire. The IRS seized many of his belongings, and Ka Ho Cho inherited not riches but a mountain of legal and financial challenges. Because she has lived privately since then, there are no reliable estimates of her personal net worth. What is clear is that she never attempted to turn her marriage into financial gain. Instead, she focused on maintaining a low-profile life. Her quiet dignity stands in contrast to the chaos of Foxx’s financial troubles, reinforcing her image as a woman of strength and resilience.
Personal Traits and Appearance
As of 2025, Ka Ho Cho is 66 years old. She is described as approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing around 63 kilograms. With dark brown hair and eyes, she is said to possess an elegant presence. Beyond physical appearance, she is remembered for her grace, discipline, and quiet strength. These traits allowed her to navigate life with Redd Foxx and endure the challenges that followed his passing. Her ability to remain poised, even in the face of hardship, continues to inspire curiosity and respect.
Is Ka Ho Cho Still Alive?
Yes, Ka Ho Cho is still believed to be alive as of 2025. There have been no public reports of her death or illness. Her decision to remain out of the spotlight has kept her current life largely a mystery, but available information suggests that she is living quietly, possibly back in South Korea. Her choice to maintain privacy has made her an “unseen guardian” of Foxx’s memory—someone who carries his legacy without seeking recognition for herself.
Conclusion
Ka Ho Cho’s story is one of love, loss, and resilience. Her marriage to Redd Foxx may have lasted only a few months, but it left a lasting mark on her life and his legacy. She stood by him during his final days, offering care and companionship when he needed it most. After his death, she faced financial struggles and public scrutiny, yet she chose privacy and dignity over publicity. Today, she remains a mysterious but important figure in the history of one of America’s greatest comedians. Ka Ho Cho reminds us that behind every celebrity is a deeply human story filled with challenges, sacrifices, and enduring strength.
FAQs About Ka Ho Cho
1. Who is Ka Ho Cho?
Ka Ho Cho is best known as the last wife of American comedian Redd Foxx, star of Sanford and Son. She married him in 1991 but became a widow after just three months when Foxx died of a heart attack.
2. When and where was Ka Ho Cho born?
Ka Ho Cho was born in 1959 in Seoul, South Korea. She later moved to the United States, where she worked as a dancer in Las Vegas before meeting Redd Foxx.
3. How did Ka Ho Cho meet Redd Foxx?
Ka Ho Cho met Redd Foxx in the late 1980s at Bally’s Hotel in Las Vegas. Despite their big age gap, they quickly connected and later married in 1991.
4. Did Ka Ho Cho have children with Redd Foxx?
No, Ka Ho Cho did not have any children with Redd Foxx. Foxx had no biological children, but he adopted his second wife’s daughter, Debraca Denise, who became his only child.
5. Is Ka Ho Cho still alive?
Yes, as of 2025, Ka Ho Cho is believed to be alive at 66 years old. She lives a very private life away from the media, possibly in South Korea.
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