John Amos, Beloved Actor and “Good Times” Star, Passes Away
Actor Dies at 84 of Natural Causes, Leaves Behind Legacy of On-Screen Patriarchy and Critical Acclaim
In a statement unveiled Tuesday, Amos’ publicist, Belinda Foster, confirmed the news of his death, which occurred on August 21.
A Life in Television
The 84-year-old actor is best known for his role as James Evans Sr. on the groundbreaking US sitcom “Good Times,” which featured one of television’s first Black two-parent families in the 1970s.
“Many fans consider him their TV father,” his son Kelly Christopher Amos said in a statement.
An Early Start to a Distinguished Career
Born John Allen Amos Jr. on December 27, 1939, in Newark, New Jersey, he graduated from Colorado State University with a sociology degree and played on the school’s football team.
It was eventually in acting that he found his way, with his first major TV role as Gordy Howard, the weatherman on “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” from 1970-73.
Finding Success and Redemption on “Good Times” and “Roots”
Amos’ role as the family patriarch on “Good Times” brought him critical acclaim and high ratings.
However, after three seasons, he was fired, but quickly bounced back, landing the role of an adult Kunta Kinte in the critically acclaimed and highly rated miniseries “Roots,” based on Alex Haley’s novel.
About His Personal Life
Amos said he had roots in Liberia, and took his children there during their childhood days, even referring to them as having Liberian friends.
Conclusion
The passing of John Amos leaves a void in the entertainment industry, but his legacy will continue to live on through his iconic on-screen performances.
FAQs
- When did John Amos pass away? August 21, 2023
- How old was John Amos when he passed away? 84 years old
- What was John Amos’ most notable role? James Evans Sr. on “Good Times”
