John Amos, 'Good Times' Dad and 'Roots' Actor, Dies at 84 [View all]

Source: Variety

Oct 1, 2024 10:55am PT



Courtesy Image


John Amos, the star of “Good Times,” “Roots” and more, died on Aug. 21 in Los Angeles of natural causes, his representative confirmed to Variety on Tuesday. He was 84.

“It is with heartfelt sadness that I share with you that my father has transitioned,” said his son Kelly Christopher Amos in a statement. “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.”

Born on December 27, 1939, in Newark, New Jersey, Amos’ acting career picked up when he landed the role of weatherman Gordon “Gordy” Howard on “The Mary Tyler Moore show” in 1970. From there, he brought his comedic talents to CBS’ “Good Times,” a spinoff of “Maude” and “All in the Family,” and played father James Evans Sr. in 1974. The Norman Lear program made history as the first TV show to follow a African American, two-parent. household.

Read more: https://variety.com/2024/tv/obituaries-people-news/john-amos-dead-good-times-roots-1236161810/

---

Dammit. His is a heartbreaking loss. I remember reading years ago about how he battled the network due to the rampant stereotyping. It took a long time but the industry was slowly changed.

R.I.P., thank you for your great body of work, and condolences to the family.