John Amos, the actor known for his roles on the acclaimed miniseries “Roots” and the CBS sitcom “Good Times,” has died. He was 84 years old.
Amos’ publicist confirmed his death to CBS News and released a statement from his family. Details about his death were not immediately available.
“I am deeply saddened by my father’s transition,” his son Kelly Christopher Amos said in a statement. “He was a man with the kindest heart and a heart of gold…and was loved all over the world.”
“Many fans think of him as their TV father. He lived a good life,” the statement continued. “His legacy will live on in his outstanding work as an actor in television and film. My father loved working as an actor throughout his life… most recently in Suits LA. Actor “American Dad” also appeared in our documentary about his life journey as an actor. He was my father, my best friend, and my hero. Thank you for your prayers and support during this time. ”
Amos’ career in television, film, and theater spans more than 50 years. He played weather forecaster Gordie Howard on “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” and starred as James Evans Sr. on CBS’ “Good Times” for three seasons.
“That show was the closest possible depiction of life for an African-American family living in those conditions,” Amos told Time magazine in 2021.
In 1977, he played the adult Kunta Kinte in the groundbreaking miniseries Roots, which told the story of an African American family through generations of American history, from slavery to freedom. He was nominated for an Emmy Award for this role.
He starred in the 1988 film Coming to America and its 2021 sequel. His last film role was in the Netflix buddy comedy “Me Time,” his publicist said.
Off screen, he was an advocate for positive representation of African Americans in film and television.
“We are so proud to represent John. He was not only an outstanding talent, but also a deeply kind and generous soul. The industry and those who knew him. His influence on the world will never be forgotten,” said Julia Buchwald, President of Buchwald Talent. Agency.
Before starting his career in the entertainment world, Amos was a social worker in New York City and had a brief professional football career with the Kansas City Chiefs. He also worked as an advertising writer and comedy writer.
He served in the New Jersey National Guard and was inducted into the state’s Hall of Fame in 2020.
Amos was married twice. Her first marriage was to artist Noel Mickelson in 1965, and they had two children, Shannon Amos and Kelly Christopher Amos. He and Mickelson separated in 1975. Amos was married to actress Lillian Lehman for one year.
He leaves behind two children.