Celebrated Hollywood actor John Amos, recognized for his iconic performances in Coming to America and Good Times, has passed away at the age of 84.
Renowned Hollywood actor John Amos, celebrated for his iconic roles in Coming to America and Good Times, has passed away at the age of 84. The news was confirmed by his son, Kelly Christopher Amos, who released a statement on Tuesday, revealing that his father died of natural causes on August 21.
“It is with heartfelt sadness that I share with you that my father has transitioned. He was a man with a kind heart and a heart of gold, loved by many worldwide. His legacy will endure through his outstanding contributions to television and film,” he said.
John Amos, who transitioned from a running back to acting, appeared in numerous TV shows, including landmark 1970s series like Good Times and Roots. He was also known for protesting the negative portrayals of Black characters in Hollywood. His talent agency, Buchwald, announced his death but did not disclose the reason for the delay in publicizing it.
After a challenging start in professional football, where he was cut by 13 teams, Amos supported himself through various jobs before finding his calling in entertainment.
He initially wrote jokes and performed in nightclubs, leading to a breakthrough in 1969 as one of the first African Americans to write for a network show.
Amos gained fame in Coming to America (1988) as the owner of a fast-food restaurant, as well as in films like Lock Up (1989) and Die Hard 2 (1990).
However, he was best known for his television roles, particularly in Good Times, where he portrayed James Evans, a pivotal character in a groundbreaking series that depicted a loving Black family navigating life’s challenges.
Despite his success, Amos often clashed with the show’s writers over its direction and portrayal of Black culture. He was eventually fired in 1976 after voicing concerns over the show’s focus on comedic elements rather than serious social issues.
Following his departure from Good Times, Amos starred as Kunta Kinte in the landmark miniseries Roots, which aired in 1977 and became one of the highest-rated programs in television history, significantly influencing the portrayal of Black narratives in media.
John Amos’s legacy as a pioneer for Black actors and his memorable performances will be remembered by fans and the entertainment industry alike.
