ood Times’ and ‘Roots’ Star John Amos Dies at 84: First Details

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.

K.C. released a statement saying, “I share with you my heartfelt sadness that my father has transitioned.” “He was a man with the kindest heart and a heart of gold.” Because of his television roles, the young director claimed that many fans thought of Amos as a father figure. His legacy will endure because of his amazing performing career in both film and television. He led a happy life.

K.C. went on, “My father enjoyed being an actor and did so for his whole life. He most recently played himself in the movie “Suits LA” and was included in our documentary “America’s Dad,” which chronicled his life as an actor. He was not just my hero but also my best friend and dad. We appreciate your prayers and current support.”

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 love of performing arts brought him to stand-up comedy in Greenwich Village, New York, where he was first seen by the public.

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.