John Amos, the Emmy-nominated actor best known his iconic roles in Good Times, Roots, Coming to America, and more passed away at the age of 84. According to The Hollywood Reporter Amos died on August 21 in Los Angeles of natural causes, as confirmed by his son, K.C. Amos.
In a heartfelt statement, K.C. Amos shared, “It is with heartfelt sadness that I share with you that my father has transitioned. He was a man with the kindest heart and a heart of gold… 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 as an actor.”
From Football Dreams to Hollywood
Born in Newark, New Jersey, in 1939, John Amos had initially pursued a career in football, playing for Colorado State University and trying out for the Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs. However, his path took a turn when he found success in the entertainment industry.
Amos’ first big break came when he landed the role of weatherman Gordy Howard on The Mary Tyler Moore Show, appearing across the first four seasons. His Emmy-nominated performance came in 1977 when he portrayed the older version of Kunta Kinte in the acclaimed miniseries Roots, a role that left a lasting impact on television history.
On the big screen, Amos made his debut in Melvin Van Peebles’ 1971 Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song. He later gained more widespread recognition in 1988’s Coming to America as Cleo McDowell, the owner of a fast-food restaurant who hires Eddie Murphy’s character, Akeem.
Breaking Ground with ‘Good Times’
John Amos’ most significant television role was his portrayal of James Evans Sr., the stern yet loving father in Good Times. The show, which aired from 1974 to 1979, was groundbreaking as it was one of the first sitcoms to focus on a Black family. Developed by Norman Lear, the series was a spin-off of Maude and took place in a Chicago housing project.
Amos joined the cast after reading for the role alongside co-star Esther Rolle, who played Florida Evans, his TV wife. Despite his initial excitement about the opportunity, Amos became increasingly frustrated with the show’s portrayal of J.J., the family’s oldest son, played by Jimmie Walker. He voiced concerns over the stereotypical humor surrounding J.J.’s character and felt the show didn’t give enough focus to the other children, portrayed by Ralph Carter and BernNadette Stanis.
“We had a number of differences,” Amos explained in a 2014 interview. “I felt too much emphasis was being put on J.J. in his chicken hat, saying ‘Dy-no-mite!’ every third page.”
His outspoken criticisms eventually led to his departure from the show after three seasons. James Evans Sr. was written off in a dramatic two-part episode that opened season four, in which the character was killed in a car accident.
John Amos’ Lasting Legacy
Although his time on Good Times was cut short, John Amos went on to have a prolific career, with memorable roles in films and television, including his portrayal of Admiral Percy Fitzwallace in The West Wing. Throughout his life, he remained a beloved figure, revered by fans and peers alike for his authenticity and trailblazing presence in Hollywood.
Amos leaves behind a legacy of talent, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to telling honest stories on-screen, paving the way for future generations of Black actors in television and film.