Beloved actor John Amos, best known for his iconic role as James Evans Sr. on the groundbreaking sitcom Good Times, has died at the age of 84. His son, Kelly Christopher Amos, confirmed the news on Tuesday, revealing that John passed away on August 21, 2024, in Los Angeles due to natural causes.
In a heartfelt statement, Kelly expressed his deep sadness, sharing, “It is with heartfelt sadness that I share with you that my father has transitioned. He was a man with the kindest heart and a heart of gold… and he was loved the world over. Many fans consider him their TV father. He lived a good life. His legacy will live on in his outstanding works in television and film as an actor.”
John Amos left an indelible mark on television, particularly with his portrayal of the strong, stoic father on Good Times. His character became a touchstone for many viewers, especially within the Black community, who saw him as a representation of a stable, hardworking father figure. However, Amos’s commitment to challenging negative stereotypes on the show led to tensions with producers, ultimately resulting in his departure.
Before his rise in Hollywood, John Amos had a different path in mind. He played football at Colorado State University and even had training camp tryouts with the Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs. But after hanging up his cleats, he found his true calling in acting.
Amos got his first major break playing weatherman Gordy Howard on The Mary Tyler Moore Show, but his career-defining role came in 1977 when he portrayed the older version of Kunta Kinte in the landmark miniseries Roots. His powerful performance earned him an Emmy nomination, cementing his place as a talented and versatile actor capable of taking on serious, impactful roles.
Amos’s career extended far beyond the small screen. He made notable appearances in several films, including Melvin Van Peebles’ Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song, and in the beloved comedy Coming to America. In the latter, he played Cleo McDowell, the father of the love interest of Eddie Murphy’s character and the owner of a fast-food restaurant with a suspiciously familiar golden-arched logo.
John Amos also had a recurring role as Admiral Percy Fitzwallace on NBC’s acclaimed drama The West Wing, portraying the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. His portrayal of strong, authoritative characters was a hallmark of his career, both on and off the screen.
John Amos lived a full life, not just as an actor but as a voice of reason and resistance within the industry. His commitment to authentic representation and his dedication to his craft earned him admiration across generations. While his presence will be deeply missed, his legacy will continue to resonate through the many roles he brought to life and the lives he touched through his work.
