Emmy-Nominated Actor John Amos Passes Away At 84

In a statement from his son, Kelly Christoph er “K.C.” Amos. John Amos, star of Good Times, Roots, and Coming To America died of natural causes in Los Angeles. Amos died on Aug. 21 at the age of 84,  the news was made public on Tuesday (Oct. 1) . “It is with heartfelt sadness that I share with you that my father has transitioned,” the statement read. “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.”

Growing up, he also drew comics and played football. However, he got a sign from God that he shouldn’t pursue a career in sports. Amos signed a free agent contract to the Broncos before landing a gig on The Mary Tyler Moore Show. Throughout his career, he earned an Emmy nomination for his role as Toby — the older version of Kunta Kinte— on the ABC miniseries, Roots. Amos also starred in Melvin Van Peebles‘ blaxploitation classic Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song (1971), and Let’s Do It Again (1975) with Sidney Poitier & Bill Cosby. In 1977, Amos took on the role of Kunta Kinte in the critically acclaimed miniseries Roots, a role that earned him an Emmy nomination and solidified his status as a dramatic actor. As with his Good Times performance, the role further demonstrated Amos’ commitment to projects that presented strong Black characters. Amos appeared as Cleo McDowell, the fast-food restaurant owner in Coming to America (1988), and later reprised this role in Coming 2 America (2021).  His other film roles include Major Grant in Die Hard 2 (1990), The Beastmaster (1982) and Lock Up (1989). His final film appearance was in Me Tyme (2022). Amos also appeared in other major television series such as All About the Andersons, The West Wing (as Admiral Percy Fitzwallace), Two and a Half Men, and The Ranch. His final television appearance came in Suits LA, where for the first time in his career he played himself.

Source: Vibe / Deadline