John Amos, the acclaimed actor best known for his roles as the patriarch James Evans Sr. in Good Times and as the elder Kunta Kinte in Roots, has died at the age of 84. His son, K.C. Amos, confirmed his passing on August 21 in Los Angeles, stating his father died of natural causes.
“It is with heartfelt sadness that I share with you that my father has transitioned,” K.C. Amos said in a statement. “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.”
Born on December 27, 1939, in Newark, New Jersey, Amos pursued a career in football before turning to acting, making his mark on television and film. His breakthrough came with his portrayal of Gordy Howard, the affable weatherman on The Mary Tyler Moore Show. Amos later received an Emmy nomination for his performance in the 1977 miniseries Roots, where he played the older version of Kunta Kinte.
Amos’s career spanned over five decades and included memorable roles in films such as Coming to America (1988), in which he played the manager of a McDonald’s-like restaurant, and numerous appearances on TV shows like The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and The West Wing.
Despite his success on Good Times, Amos publicly criticized the show for relying too heavily on stereotypes, particularly in the portrayal of Jimmie Walker’s character J.J. Evans. His outspoken views ultimately led to his departure from the show after three seasons. “I wasn’t the most diplomatic guy in those days,” Amos later admitted in an interview with the Television Academy Foundation.
Though his career was marked by ups and downs, Amos remained a beloved figure in Hollywood. In his later years, he toured with his one-man play, Halley’s Comet, and produced the documentary America’s Dad with his son.
In addition to his son, Amos is survived by his daughter, Shannon Amos. His contributions to television and film, both on and off the screen, leave behind an enduring legacy.
