Actor John Amos, beloved "Good Times" star, Emmy nominee for "Roots," dies at 84

Hollywood is mourning the loss of iconic Actor John Amos, best known for his role as James Evans Sr. on the groundbreaking sitcom Good Times and his Emmy-nominated performance in Roots. The 84-year-old actor passed away from natural causes on August 21, his publicist Belinda Foster confirmed in a statement released Tuesday.

Amos, born John Allen Amos Jr. on December 27, 1939, in Newark, New Jersey, rose to prominence with his portrayal of strong, family-oriented characters on television. His role as James Evans Sr. in Good Times was especially significant as it featured one of the first Black two-parent families on TV during the 1970s. “Many fans consider him their TV father,” his son, Kelly Christopher Amos, said.

Amos graduated from Colorado State University with a degree in sociology and was a talented football player before pursuing his true passion for acting. His breakout role came in the early 1970s as Gordy Howard, the weatherman on The Mary Tyler Moore Show.

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Although he was dismissed from Good Times after three seasons, Amos quickly rebounded with his iconic portrayal of Kunta Kinte in Roots, a role that earned him an Emmy nomination and became one of the most important performances in television history. The miniseries was a ratings and critical success, cementing Amos’ legacy.

Amos also had a deep connection to Liberia, where he took his children during their childhood, fostering lasting friendships in the West African nation.

Throughout his career, Amos made a lasting impact on audiences with his strong, compassionate characters and will be remembered for his contributions to both television and the portrayal of African American families on screen.