Beloved “Good Times” and “Roots” Actor John Amos Passes Away at 84

John Amos, the actor celebrated for his iconic roles in Good Times, Roots, and The Mary Tyler Moore Show, passed away on August 21 in Los Angeles of natural causes. He was 84.

His death was announced by his son, Kelly Christopher Amos, who shared a heartfelt message: “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. 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.”

Amos’ career, which spanned over five decades, began in 1970 when he played Gordy Howard, the weatherman on The Mary Tyler Moore Show. His natural comedic talent eventually led to his most famous role, James Evans Sr. on the groundbreaking sitcom Good Times (1974–1976), where he portrayed a strong, hardworking Black father—one of the few such representations in television at the time.

Amos also earned critical acclaim in 1977 for his role as Kunta Kinte in the miniseries Roots, which garnered him an Emmy nomination. This dramatic role further solidified Amos’ commitment to projects that showcased strong and positive portrayals of Black characters.

In addition to Good Times and Roots, Amos appeared in numerous other television series, including All About the Andersons, The West Wing (as Admiral Percy Fitzwallace), Two and a Half Men, and The Ranch. His last television appearance was in Suits LA, where he played himself for the first time in his career.

Amos also made a significant impact on film, famously playing Cleo McDowell, the fast-food restaurant owner in Coming to America (1988) and reprising the role in Coming 2 America (2021). His other notable film credits include Die Hard 2 (1990), The Beastmaster (1982), and Lock Up (1989).

Amos co-produced a documentary with his son, KC Amos, titled America’s Dad, which reflects on his journey as an actor and the legacy he leaves behind. He also enjoyed a successful stage career, performing a one-man show, Halley’s Comet, about life and mortality, in the U.S. and internationally.

Throughout his career, Amos received numerous accolades, including an Emmy nomination for Roots and a TV Land Award for Good Times. He was an outspoken advocate for the positive portrayal of African Americans in television and film, consistently pushing for more diverse and accurate representations.

Prior to his acting career, Amos served in the New Jersey State National Guard and played college football at Colorado State University before briefly joining the NFL with the Kansas City Chiefs.

Julia Buchwald, President of Buchwald, Amos’ representation, said, “We are so proud to have represented John. He was not only a remarkable talent but also a deeply kind and generous soul. His impact on the industry and those who knew him will never be forgotten.”