John Amos, beloved dad from “Good Times” and star of “Roots,” dies at 84
Actor John Amos, known for his iconic roles in "Good Times" and "Roots," passes away at age 84.
We have lost a true television icon. John Amos, known for his memorable roles on Good Times, The West Wing, and Roots, has passed away at the age of 84. His career spanned decades, touching the hearts of many through his powerful performances.
Amos leaves behind a rich legacy, one filled with groundbreaking roles that broke barriers and brought crucial issues like race and poverty to light on television.
John Amos wasn’t just an actor; he was a trailblazer who fought for fair and accurate representation of Black families on TV. His performances resonated with millions, and even though he’s no longer with us, his legacy will live on for generations. Fans and friends alike are mourning the loss of this great man, but his work in television and film will forever remind us of the immense talent and heart he brought to the screen.
Born on December 27, 1939, in Newark, New Jersey, Amos had a unique path to acting. Before his TV career, he was a talented football player. In 1964, he signed with the Denver Broncos, but an injury cut his football dreams short. That led him to Hollywood, where he soon became a household name.
Amos’s first significant role was as Gordy Howard, the weatherman on The Mary Tyler Moore Show in the early 1970s. However, it was his portrayal of James Evans, Sr., the hardworking and devoted father on Good Times, that solidified his place in TV history. His role as the head of a struggling Black family living in public housing struck a chord with viewers everywhere, portraying the realities of poverty and racism with honesty and compassion.
While Good Times was groundbreaking, Amos’s journey on the show wasn’t without conflict. He famously disagreed with the producers on how Black families were depicted as the series leaned more toward comedy rather than addressing deeper issues. His departure after season 3, and the show’s decision to kill off his character, shocked many, but it didn’t slow him down.
Amos went on to another landmark role, playing the adult Kunta Kinte in the critically acclaimed miniseries Roots, for which he earned an Emmy nomination. His work on Roots helped bring the history of slavery in America to mainstream audiences, leaving a lasting impression on television history.
Beyond these roles, Amos remained a fixture in television with recurring parts on The West Wing, Two and a Half Men, and The Ranch. His film credits include hits like Die Hard 2 and Coming to America.
John Amos’s passing marks the end of an era, but his impact on TV and film will never be forgotten. As his son Kelly Christopher Amos said, “He lived a good life. His legacy will live on in his outstanding works in television and film as an actor.” It’s clear that Amos’s life was about more than just acting—it was about telling stories that mattered and making sure those stories reflected the truth.
What are your favorite memories of John Amos? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments. Let’s celebrate the incredible legacy of this TV legend together.
