John Amos dead: Good Times and The West Wing actor dies aged 84 from natural causes

His son, Kelly Christopher Amos, announced on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, that his father had died from natural causes on August 21, 2024, in Los Angeles.

In a statement, Kelly said, "It is with heartfelt sadness that I share with you that my father has transitioned. 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."

John Amos, an Emmy-nominated actor and former football player, was known for his strong, stoic portrayal of James Evans Sr. on Good Times, a show that depicted the struggles of a working-class Black family. His role as a firm yet loving father made him a television icon, but Amos was fired from the show after objecting to the stereotypical storylines and clashing with producers.

Before his acting career took off, Amos played football at Colorado State University and had try-outs with the Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs. However, it was his turn as weatherman Gordy Howard on The Mary Tyler Moore Show that marked the beginning of his successful career.

Amos earned an Emmy nomination for his powerful portrayal of the older Kunta Kinte in the 1977 ABC miniseries Roots, a role that further solidified his place in television history. He also had a recurring role as Admiral Percy Fitzwallace, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, on the popular NBC drama The West Wing.

In addition to his TV work, Amos appeared in popular films, including Melvin Van Peebles' 1971 blaxploitation classic Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song. He also took on a memorable role in Coming to America (1988), playing the fast-food restaurant manager who hires Eddie Murphy’s character, an African prince, setting the stage for the prince’s love story with his daughter in the film.