John Amos

2024 - 10 - 2

Goodbye King of TV Dads: John Amos Passes at 84!

Family Dynamics - Good Times - Hollywood Tributes - John Amos - Representation in Media - Roots - Television History

The beloved star of 'Good Times' and 'Roots', John Amos, has left us at 84—here’s a trip down memory lane as we celebrate his legacy!

John Amos, the iconic actor best known for his roles in the groundbreaking sitcoms "Good Times" and the groundbreaking miniseries "Roots", has sadly passed away at the age of 84. He made a lasting impact in the world of television, portraying unforgettable characters that resonated deeply with audiences. As a stalwart father figure, Amos brought warmth and strength to his roles, especially as James Evans in "Good Times"—a character familiar to many who would spend their evenings watching the ups and downs of a Black family living in Chicago during the 1970s.

Amos wasn't just a talented actor but a cultural force who helped pave the way for more nuanced representations of African American families on television. His portrayal of Kunta Kinte in "Roots" earned him critical acclaim, including an Emmy nomination, as viewers were taken on a heart-wrenching journey through the painful history of slavery in America. His performances not only entertained but educated, prompting conversations in households everywhere about race, identity, and family values.

Beyond the big moments and serious themes, Amos had a flair for comedy, too. His role in "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" showcased his range, where he played the lovable yet hapless Gordy, making us laugh while also forging a deeper connection with the audience. For many fans, John Amos wasn't just an actor; he was a father figure who embodied kindness and resilience, echoing the struggles and triumphs that many families face.

As we fondly remember John Amos, let's also recognize that he was a trailblazer who set the stage for many actors of color in Hollywood. Did you know that he was also a skilled athlete, excelling in football and having been signed to play in the NFL before pursuing a career in acting? His multifaceted legacy, both on-screen and off, will continue to inspire future generations. Here's to the unforgettable John Amos, the man who defined TV fatherhood with grace, humor, and his ever-welcoming smile.

And for those who may not know, John Amos wasn't just confined to the small screen—he also had appearances in prominent films and stage productions, showcasing his diverse range of talent! His influence, much like his roles, is set in stone and will linger in the hearts of fans as a poignant reminder of his monumental impact on the entertainment industry.

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Image courtesy of "Public Radio Tulsa"

John Amos, star of TV's 'Good Times' and 'Roots,' dies at 84 (Public Radio Tulsa)

Amos starred as the family patriarch on the hit 1970s sitcom “Good Times" and earned an Emmy nomination for his role in the seminal 1977 miniseries “Roots."

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Image courtesy of "Variety"

John Amos Dead: Good Times Dad, Roots and Mary Tyler Moore ... (Variety)

John Amos, the star of "Good Times," "Roots" and "The Mary Tyler Moore Show," died on Aug. 21 in Los Angeles of natural causes. He was 84.

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Image courtesy of "The Guardian"

John Amos, father in groundbreaking sitcom Good Times, dies at 84 (The Guardian)

The TV patriarch, who also played the older Kunta Kinte on the mini-series Roots, died on 21 August, according to a statement from his son.

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Image courtesy of "CBS News"

John Amos, "Roots" and "Good Times" actor, dies at 84 (CBS News)

John Amos was best known for his roles in "Roots" and the 1970s sitcom "Good Times."

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Image courtesy of "PBS NewsHour"

John Amos, iconic screen actor from 'Good Times' to 'Roots' to 'The ... (PBS NewsHour)

Many fans consider him their TV father,” his son Kelly Christopher Amos said in a statement.

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Image courtesy of "NBC News"

John Amos, veteran actor of 'Roots' and 'Good Times' fame, dies at 84 (NBC News)

Actor John Amos, whose long career included a range of iconic roles in such works as "Roots," "Good Times" and "The West Wing," died last month, ...

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Image courtesy of "Hollywood Reporter"

John Amos, 'Good Times' Dad, Dies at 84 (Hollywood Reporter)

John Amos, who starred as the stoic father on 'Good Times,' on 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show' and on 'Roots,' has died.

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Image courtesy of "BBC News"

John Amos: Roots, Good Times and The West Wing actor remembered (BBC News)

John Amos starred in landmark drama Roots and was fired from sitcom Good Times after rows over scripts.

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Image courtesy of "The Manila Times"

John Amos, patriarch on 'Good Times,' dies at 84 (The Manila Times)

LOS ANGELES — John Amos, who starred as the family patriarch on the hit 1970s sitcom 'Good Times' and earned an Emmy nomination for his role in the seminal ...

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Image courtesy of "The New York Times"

John Amos, a Star of 'Good Times' and 'Roots,' Is Dead at 84 (The New York Times)

He was the patriarch in one of the first sitcoms with an all-Black cast and an enslaved African in the American South in a blockbuster TV mini-series.

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Image courtesy of "Famuan"

John Amos, “Good Times” Dad and Emmy nominee, dies at 84 (Famuan)

John Amos, a beloved figure in the world of television and a well-known name in Black households, passed away on Aug 21 in Los Angeles due to natural causes ...

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Image courtesy of "CNN"

John Amos' daughter says she learned of his death through the media (CNN)

Actor John Amos died in August, but his daughter has revealed she only learned about it when his passing was reported by the media on October 1.

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Image courtesy of "USA TODAY"

John Amos remembered by Al Roker, 'West Wing' co-stars: 'This one ... (USA TODAY)

Hollywood is mourning the loss of John Amos, the trailblazing star of "Good Times" and "Roots."

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Image courtesy of "BusinessWorld Online"

John Amos, star of 1970s TV's Good Times and Roots, 84 ... (BusinessWorld Online)

LOS ANGELES — John Amos, the US football player turned actor who was acclaimed for his roles in the 1970s TV series Good Times as well as the miniseries ...

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Image courtesy of "Deadline"

John Amos Daughter Says She Learned Of Father's August 21 ... (Deadline)

The daughter of the late actor John Amos says she was "without words" when learning through media reports this week that her father died in August.

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Image courtesy of "Vulture"

John Amos's Daughter, Shannon, Didn't Know He Died (Vulture)

John Amos's daughter, Shannon, learned about her father's death through the media, following years of bitter fights with her brother, K.C., ...

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Image courtesy of "NPR"

What John Amos taught me about having – and being – a father (NPR)

Amos, who played James Evans Sr. in the 1970s sitcom Good Times, showed TV critic Eric Deggans what it was like to have a concerned, ethical father at home.

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Image courtesy of "KUAR"

What John Amos taught me about having — and being — a father (KUAR)

Amos, who played James Evans Sr. in the 1970s sitcom Good Times, showed TV critic Eric Deggans what it was like to have a concerned, ethical father at home.

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