S Poddar
Actor John Amos has died at the age of 84. He is perhaps best known for his iconic roles on the landmark miniseries Roots and the CBS sitcom Good Times. The news comes from a publicist confirming to CBS and through a poignant family statement. No other details regarding his death were immediately available.
His son, Kelly Christopher Amos, shared the family’s sorrow: “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 remember him not only as a talented actor but as a figure of warmth and inspiration. Kelly also shared this sentiment: “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.”
John Amos had a diversified and long career of over fifty years. He was first recognized for his portrayal of weatherman Gordy Howard on The Mary Tyler Moore Show. Then, he landed the title role of James Evans Sr. in Good Times. Soon, he portrayed Evans very well as an honest working and loving father, trying to raise his children and bring food to the table. Speaking with Time magazine in 2021, Amos said, “That show was the closest depiction in reality to life as an African American family living in those circumstances as it could be.”
One of his best-remembered roles was the adult Kunta Kinte in Roots, that incredible miniseries detailing the multi-generational story of a seminal African American family, from slavery times to freedom. Mangano’s performance in that role won him critical acclaim and a nomination for an Emmy, further cementing his place in the annals of television history.
Apart from the small screen, Amos also impressed in movies. He starred in the classic 1988 Coming to America, opposite Eddie Murphy, and reprised his role in the sequel released in 2021. His most recent film appearance was in Netflix’s buddy comedy Me Tyme. He did it again, reeling off his versatile acting abilities.
Amos was not only an actor, but he was also a strong advocate for positive African American presentation in both film and television. He changed the filmscape because of his commitment to changing the narrative about Black characters in Hollywood.
The president of the Buchwald talent agency, Julia Buchwald, wrote, “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.”
Interestingly, several years ago, when Amos was still not an actor of note, he had the most diversified and fulfilling life. He had worked as a social worker in New York City and was even a professional football player for a while with the Kansas City Chiefs. Early on in his career, Amos also worked as an advertising and comedy writer. Additionally, he was in the New Jersey National Guard; in 2020, he was inducted into the state’s Hall of Fame.
Amos had a personal life characterized by love and loss. He first married artist Noel Mickelson in 1965, where from the marriage, there were two children Shannon Amos and Kelly Christopher Amos before eventually separating in 1975. He then married actress Lillian Lehman, though this too lasted but for only a year. Despite all this, Amos was never far away from his family: he is survived by his two children.
John Amos has left a legacy, rich in the entertainment world, but far greater than that-the memory of a man who made use of his talents for inspiration and uplift. Fans, friends, and family will remember him for roles but especially for a heart and humanity he infused into each of his roles.
