John Amos, Star of ‘Good Times’ and ‘Roots,’ Passes Away at 84
Beloved actor John Amos, known for his roles in “Good Times” and “Roots,” passed away at 84. A tribute to his life, career, and lasting legacy in television and film.
John Amos, an American actor whose career spanned over five decades, passed away at the age of 84. Known for his iconic roles as James Evans Sr. on the hit TV show Good Times and as Kunta Kinte in the groundbreaking miniseries Roots, Amos left an indelible mark on television and film. His passing, confirmed by longtime publicist Belinda Foster, took place on August 21 in Los Angeles due to natural causes. Amos’ legacy as a trailblazer in the entertainment industry is a testament to his immense talent and dedication.
A Life Steeped in Passion
Born in 1939 in East Orange, New Jersey, John Amos found his first passion in sports. As a young boy, he developed a love for football, which ultimately led him to play at Colorado State University. Despite earning a degree in social work, his heart was set on a career in professional football. He had brief stints with the Kansas City Chiefs, Denver Broncos, and the British Columbia Lions of the Canadian Football League.
In an interview shared by the Chiefs, Amos described himself as a “slightly better than average high school football player.” His goal was to use football as a way to break free from the economic struggles he had experienced. However, fate had other plans. Kansas City Chiefs coach Hank Stram famously told him during his release from the team, “You are not a football player, you are a young man who happens to be playing football.”
This moment became a turning point for Amos, who soon transitioned from the world of sports to the world of acting. His journey, however, wasn’t easy, as he worked as a social worker and copywriter in New York before finding his way onto the stage and screen.
Rising Stardom: From Gordy Howard to James Evans
Amos made his first breakthrough in television as Gordon “Gordy” Howard, the weatherman on The Mary Tyler Moore Show. His charm and screen presence quickly gained attention, and he went on to land roles on other hit shows in the 1970s, including Sanford and Son and Love American Style.
However, it was his portrayal of James Evans Sr. on Good Times that truly catapulted him to fame. Good Times was one of the first TV shows to focus on a Black family, and Amos played the strong, hardworking father with conviction. His portrayal resonated deeply with audiences, who saw him as the embodiment of a real Black father figure—someone who was stern but loving and deeply invested in the well-being of his family.
Despite the show’s success, Amos left Good Times after two seasons, citing creative differences with the white writers. In a 2020 interview, Amos explained that he felt the show’s portrayal of the Black family was inaccurate and rooted in stereotypes. “I felt like I knew more about what a Black family should be and how a Black father would act,” he said. This decision, though controversial, demonstrated his commitment to authenticity and representation in media.
Amos and Good Times creator Norman Lear would later reconcile, and the two shared a public hug during the 2019 Good Times live reunion special.
A Career-Defining Role in Roots
In 1977, Amos took on the role that would forever change the trajectory of his career. His portrayal of Toby, the adult version of the enslaved African Kunta Kinte in the critically acclaimed miniseries Roots, earned him widespread recognition and an Emmy nomination. The series, which was based on Alex Haley’s novel, chronicled the brutal history of American slavery and became a cultural phenomenon.
Amos described the role as life-changing, not just as an actor, but also as a person. “It was the culmination of all the misconceptions and stereotypical roles that I had lived and seen being offered to me,” he told Time magazine in 2021. “It was like a reward for having suffered those indignities.”
Amos’ powerful performance in Roots cemented his place as a force in Hollywood, and the series itself became a landmark moment in American television, raising awareness about the atrocities of slavery and its enduring impact.
Beyond Good Times and Roots: A Versatile Actor
Amos’ career extended far beyond his two most famous roles. He appeared in numerous television shows and films, demonstrating his versatility as an actor. One of his most beloved roles was that of Cleo McDowell, the owner of McDowell’s fast food restaurant, in the 1988 Eddie Murphy comedy Coming to America. Amos reprised the role in the 2021 sequel Coming 2 America, bringing nostalgia and joy to longtime fans.
He also made memorable appearances in shows like The West Wing, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and Two and a Half Men, proving that his talents were not limited to drama but extended to comedy as well.
Personal Life and Challenges
Despite his professional success, Amos faced personal challenges later in life. In 2023, allegations of elder abuse surfaced within his family, creating concern among his fans. However, Amos released a statement assuring everyone that he was not in ICU and was not fighting for his life. He emphasized that he was doing well despite the rumors, reflecting his resilience and strength.
Amos is survived by his son Kelly Christopher Amos, his daughter Shannon Amos, and two sisters. His children have spoken publicly about their deep admiration and love for their father, highlighting his kindness, generosity, and enduring legacy.
Remembering John Amos: A Legacy That Will Endure
John Amos’ contributions to television and film cannot be overstated. From his groundbreaking role as James Evans Sr. to his unforgettable performance in Roots, Amos brought depth, dignity, and authenticity to every character he portrayed. His work paved the way for future generations of Black actors, and his commitment to honest representation remains an inspiration.
As fans and colleagues remember Amos, they do so with gratitude for the indelible mark he left on the entertainment industry. His legacy will continue to live on, not just through his body of work, but also in the hearts of those who admired him both on and off the screen.
In the words of his son, “He lived a good life. His legacy will live on in his outstanding works in television and film as an actor.”
