John Amos, the Emmy-nominated actor known for his iconic roles in “Good Times,” “Roots,” and more, has passed away.
He was 84 years old.
The actor’s son confirmed that Amos died on Aug. 21 in Los Angeles of natural causes.
“It is with heartfelt sadness that I share with you that my father has transitioned,” said Kelly Christopher Amos in a statement. “He was a man with the kindest heart… and he was loved the world over. Many fans consider him their TV father. He lived a good life. His legacy will live on in his outstanding works in television and film. My father loved working as an actor throughout his entire life… most recently in Suits LA playing himself and our documentary about his life journey, America’s Dad. He was my dad, my best friend, and my hero. Thank you for your prayers and support at this time.”
In honor of John Amos passing here is arguably one of his best scenes from ‘The West Wing’.
— Kenny (@kennysroys) October 1, 2024
This scene not only shows the amazing acting of Amos but it also illustrates how to be an ally and a voice for those who may not be present to defend themselves
Rest in Peace, John 🕊️ pic.twitter.com/sIZFyYf0vY
Born on December 27, 1939, in Newark, New Jersey. Prior to his acting career, Amos had a brief stint in professional football, playing for Colorado State University and spending the 1967 NFL offseason with the Kansas City Chiefs.
Amos first garnered national attention while starring in “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” in 1970 as weatherman Gordon “Gordy” Howard. In 1974, Amos became a household name when he starred as James Evans Sr., the hardworking father in the groundbreaking CBS sitcom Good Times. The show, a spinoff of Maude, was the first to depict an African American two-parent household. However, Amos was fired after the third season after a dispute with producers over the show’s portrayal of his on-screen son, J.J. Evans,
Amos’ career-defining moment came in 1977, when he portrayed Kunta Kinte in ABC’s historic miniseries Roots which traced the barbaric realities of slavery in America. Amos’ portrayal earned him an Emmy nomination; the miniseries also nabbed nine Emmys, a Golden Globe, and a Peabody Award. Roots made history as one of the most-watched television events of all time, with more than half of the U.S. population tuning in.
RIP John Amos 🕊️ Will never forget seeing you and James Earl Jones in Coming to America 🙏 pic.twitter.com/66vwgxtx7g
— AuxGod (@AuxGod_) October 1, 2024
In addition to his iconic television roles, Amos appeared on a wide range of shows, including The West Wing, Two and a Half Men, and The Ranch. His final TV appearance will be in the upcoming Suits LA. On the big screen, he was known for his performances in films like Coming to America and its sequel Coming 2 America, Die Hard 2, and The Beastmaster. Alongside his son, he also produced an upcoming documentary about his life titled America’s Dad. He
“We are so proud to have represented John,” said Julia Buchwald, president of the talent agency Buchwald. “He was not only a remarkable talent but also a deeply kind and generous soul. His impact on the industry and those who knew him will never be forgotten.”
Rest in power, John Amos!
