John Amos, known for his role as the stern patriarch in the groundbreaking sitcom “Good Times” and his portrayal of Kunta Kinte in the acclaimed miniseries “Roots,” has died at the age of 84 in Los Angeles. His publicist, Belinda Foster, confirmed that he passed away on August 21, though the cause of death has not been disclosed, and details regarding the delay in the announcement remain unclear.
Amos’s career spanned over five decades, starting with his breakout role in “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” in 1970, followed by his pivotal role in “Good Times,” which aired from 1974 to 1979.
The series explored the lives of a Black working-class family in Chicago, tackling social issues like racial discrimination and poverty while maintaining a humorous tone.
Amos’s character, James Evans Sr., was a complex figure who balanced discipline with tenderness as he supported his family.
His outspoken nature about script authenticity and representation ultimately led to his departure from the show after Season 3. He later gained further acclaim for his role in “Roots,” which significantly raised awareness about the historical impact of slavery in America.
Beyond his iconic television roles, Amos appeared in numerous films and series, including “Coming to America” and “The West Wing,” and remained active in the industry into his 80s. He is survived by his two children, Shannon and Kelly Christopher (K.C.), from his first marriage, and was reportedly working on a docuseries with K.C. reflecting on their relationship and his extensive career.
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