Off The Record
‘Good Times’ And ‘Roots’ Star John Amos Dies At 84: His Son’s Shattering Words
The cherished actor, often referred to as “America’s Dad,” has departed from this life and left behind an enduring career in both television and cinema.
On August 21, in Los Angeles, John Amos, the legendary actor who embodied endearing characters in historical dramas and sitcoms, passed away. On Tuesday, October 1, his son K.C. Amos made the announcement of his passing.
“It is with heartfelt sadness that I share with you that my father has transitioned,” K.C. said in a statement. “He was a man with the kindest heart and a heart of gold.” According to the young director, many fans viewed Amos as a father figure due to his television roles. He had a fulfilling life, and his remarkable acting career in television and film will ensure that his legacy lives on.
K.C. continued, “My father loved working as an actor throughout his entire life…. most recently in ‘Suits LA’ playing himself and our documentary about his life journey as an actor, ‘America’s Dad.’ He was my dad, my best friend, and my hero. Thank you for your prayers and support at this time.”
Celebrities and fans alike have paid tribute to Amos, sharing their recollections of his significant influence on the entertainment industry as well as their sincere condolences.
Martin Lawrence took to Twitter and wrote, “This one hits different. My condolences go out to the family of a true legend, John Amos 🙏🏾.”
Al Roker honored Amos on Instagram, “Whether in Roots, Mary Tyler Moore, Good Times, Coming To America or other roles, John Amos brought dignity, grace and honesty to his roles. I remember him as Gordy The Weatherman at WJM when we was just starting as a TV weather guy in 1974 and seeing him as a role model. […] He will be missed.”
Loni Love also expressed her condolences on Twitter, “I had the honor to work with John Amos on the movie Bad Asses on the Bayou. He played my dad… we had a ball!! Such a talented actor and I learned a lot by working with him. Condolences to his family.”
To her Instagram stories, Garcelle Beauvais posted a tribute, writing, “I will miss you, John.” Our AmoReaders also shared their condolences for the actor’s passing in the interim.
One fan wrote, “He was also in ‘Coming to America!!’ Wow that’s a sad loss. Another great actor gone from the same film. Rest in Peace, John Amos, along with James Earl Jones [sic].”
Another commented, “I was sad to hear this. He was an awesome actor and loved his work on ‘The West Wing.’ May you R.I.P [sic].” A touching tribute came from another user who posted, “There’s a new star in heaven. Join Maggie, Kris and all the TV legends who paved the way. Rest in peace, John Amos.”
Amos, who was born in New Jersey on December 27, 1939, was raised in a working-class household. Prior to his career in Hollywood, he worked as a social worker, advertising copywriter, and semi-professional football player in the US and Canada.
His passion for performing arts led him to stand-up comedy in Greenwich Village, New York, where the general public first saw him.
As a staff writer for “The Leslie Uggams Show,” Amos was employed in 1969, and this eventually led to opportunities for performing. He had appeared on stage for the first time in a Los Angeles production of “Norman, Is That You?” by 1971. Critical appreciation for his portrayal brought him other possibilities, including a recurring role on “The Mary Tyler Moore Show.”
In 1974, he landed his most well-known role as James Evans, the father figure in the sitcom “Good Times,” which followed a Black family living in a Chicago housing project. Tensions over the show’s focus increased between Amos and the producers even as the program became popular.
Amos thought the show had moved away from its original focus on family values and toward humorous caricatures, especially with Jimmie Walker’s character, JJ. Ultimately, the actor lost his job in 1976, and the show’s script removed his character.
In 1977, Amos played the adult Kunta Kinte in the miniseries “Roots,” which explored the horrific past of American slavery. This was Amos’ next major role. His act, for which he was nominated for an Emmy, became iconic on television.
With cameos on TV shows like “The A-Team,” “The West Wing,” and “Men in Trees,” he was able to develop his career. Acclaim was also bestowed upon his stage work, especially for his parts in shows like “Fences,” “The Emperor Jones,” and his solo appearance in “Halley’s Comet.”
Specifically, his performance in the play “Split Second” won him the NAACP Award for Best Actor, demonstrating his skill and value to the theater. Amos continued to be involved in the industry even in his latter years, and at the time of his death, he had multiple projects in the works.
Quiera Williams, John Amos’ granddaughter, and his two daughters, Shannon and K.C., also work in the entertainment business, survive him. We are sending them our sincerest condolences during this difficult time.
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