John Amos, Star of Good Times and Roots, Dead at 84

John Amos, Star of Good Times and Roots, Dead at 84

As a child of the 70s, John Amos’s passing leaves a profound void in my heart and the television landscape. His roles on “Good Times” and “Roots” were more than just entertainment; they were cornerstones of our cultural history, providing us with stories that resonated deeply and continue to do so today.


The small screen has lost a prolific presence.

John Amos, a prominent actor whose TV work became a foundation during the 1970s and beyond, passed away on August 21 due to natural causes. His son, Kelly Christopher “K.C.” Amos, confirmed this in an October 1 statement. He was 84 years old.

In simpler terms, “He was a man known for his exceptionally kind heart and golden spirit, adored across the globe,” his son explained to Deadline. “Many viewers regarded him as their TV father. He led a fulfilling life. His impact will continue through his remarkable performances on television and film.

Expressing gratitude for their support, he went on to say, “My father dedicated his entire life to acting… most notably in ‘Suits LA,’ where he played himself, and our documentary about his career as an actor, titled ‘America’s Dad.’ He was not just my dad, but also my dearest friend, and a true hero.

He is also survived by his daughter Shannon Amos, whom he shared with ex-wife Noel Mickelson.

Initially, Amos gained significant television recognition through his role as a weatherman in “The Mary Tyler Moore Show”. However, it’s his performances on “Good Times” and the 1977 miniseries “Roots” that have had the greatest lasting impact.

Previously, Amos portrayed James Evans, father of three kids residing in Chicago, alongside his TV spouse, Florida (Esther Rolle). Making its debut in 1974, this series ran for six seasons and represented the first television sitcom to depict a two-parent African American family.

John Amos, Star of Good Times and Roots, Dead at 84

As a connoisseur of lifestyle and history, allow me to share my thoughts on “Roots: The Saga of an American Family,” a captivating historical series that offers a glimpse into the life of Kunta Kinte, a young man abducted from his home in The Gambia and forced into slavery. In this compelling narrative, I portrayed the mature Kunta, while the charismatic Levar Burton brought to life the adolescent iteration.

His contributions to the series led to an Emmy nomination, and wins for TV Land Awards for Roots, Good Times, and The Mary Tyler Moore Show. Additionally, in 1996, he received a nomination for an NAACP Image Award for In The House.

Originally from New Jersey, this individual played Admiral Percy Fitzwallace on ‘The West Wing’, contributed to ‘The District’, and featured in films including ‘The Beastmaster’ (1988), ‘Coming to America’ (both the original and its 2021 sequel), ‘Lock Up’, and ‘Die Hard 2’.

Previously on “Good Times”, Amos stated during PBS’s “Pioneers of Television” series in 2013 that the show was smart at times, but not always, and it also provided pure entertainment. However, even within the realm of entertainment, important messages were conveyed.

Yet it was Roots that was a particularly special experience for the actor.

John Amos, Star of Good Times and Roots, Dead at 84

After completing Roots, he told PBS that he no longer cared if he ever worked in the industry again. He felt that his work on Roots was the best it would ever get.

But continue to work he did, leaving behind a legacy that won’t be easily forgotten.

Julia Buchwald, president of Buchwald talent agency, expressed great pride in having represented John. He wasn’t just an exceptional talent, but also a truly compassionate and giving individual. The mark he left on the industry and those fortunate enough to know him will live on forever,” she told Deadline.

Read More

2024-10-01 23:18