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John Amos, the beloved star of “Good Times,” “Roots,” and numerous other film and television projects, passed away on August 21 in Los Angeles at the age of 84 due to natural causes, his representative confirmed to Variety. His son, Kelly Christopher Amos, shared a heartfelt statement: “It is with deep sadness that I share the news of my father’s passing. He was a man with a heart of gold who was cherished by fans around the world, many of whom considered him their TV father. He lived a remarkable life, and his legacy will endure through his incredible contributions to television and film. My father loved his work and remained dedicated to acting throughout his entire life. His most recent projects include appearing as himself in ‘Suits LA’ and our documentary on his life, ‘America’s Dad.’ He was my father, my best friend, and my hero. Thank you for your prayers and support during this time.”
Born on December 27, 1939, in Newark, New Jersey, Amos began his career as Gordon “Gordy” Howard, the weatherman on The Mary Tyler Moore Show in 1970. He gained widespread fame as the patriarch James Evans Sr. on the groundbreaking sitcom Good Times, a spinoff of Maude and All in the Family. Premiering in 1974, the Norman Lear series made history as the first television show to depict a two-parent African American household. The role of the hardworking and devoted father resonated with audiences, but Amos left the show after three seasons due to creative differences over his character’s portrayal.
In 1977, Amos earned an Emmy nomination for his iconic portrayal of adult Kunta Kinte in the ABC miniseries Roots, a groundbreaking series that chronicled the history of slavery in the United States. The miniseries became a cultural phenomenon, with over 130 million people tuning in—more than half the U.S. population at the time. It went on to win nine Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe, and a Peabody Award. The final episode remains one of the highest-rated television broadcasts of all time.
Throughout his prolific career, Amos appeared in a variety of TV shows, including The West Wing, Two and a Half Men, The Ranch, and About the Andersons. His film credits include memorable roles in Coming to America and its 2021 sequel Coming 2 America, Die Hard 2, The Beastmaster, and Lock Up. Amos was also an accomplished playwright, writing, producing, and starring in his one-man stage play, Halley’s Comet, and appeared on Broadway in August Wilson’s Gem of the Ocean.
Reflecting on his life and career, Amos and his son were producing a documentary titled America’s Dad, celebrating his impact and journey as a trailblazing actor. Julia Buchwald, President of Buchwald, shared: “We are so proud to have represented John. He was not only an extraordinary talent but also a kind and generous soul. His impact on the industry and those who knew him will never be forgotten.”
Before pursuing acting, Amos played college football at Colorado State University and even suited up for the Kansas City Chiefs during the 1967 NFL offseason. His legacy as a multifaceted entertainer and beloved TV father will forever be remembered.
