Iconic Actor, Former NFL Player Dead At 84

John Amos, the Emmy-nominated actor famed for his role as the family patriarch on the sitcom “Good Times,” has died at the age of 84. Known for his portrayals in both “Good Times” and as the adult Kunta Kinte in the original miniseries “Roots,” Amos originally transitioned from TV writing to acting, where he passionately objected to stereotypical portrayals, ultimately leading to his departure from “Good Times.”

His passing on August 21 in Los Angeles from natural causes was confirmed by his son, film producer Kelly Christopher “K.C.” Amos, and his longtime publicist, Belinda Foster.

“It is with heartfelt sadness that I share with you that my father has transitioned,” a 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.”

PASADENA, CA – JULY 19: John Amos at the Disney ABC Television Group All Star Party on July 19, 2006 at Kidspace Children’s Museum in Pasadena, CA.

Amos was a celebrated actor renowned for his influential roles in television during the 1970s and beyond. Born on December 27, 1939, in Newark, New Jersey, Amos’s acting career was most distinguished by his portrayal of James Evans Sr., the strong-willed father in the hit sitcom “Good Times,” and as the adult Kunta Kinte in the landmark miniseries “Roots.” Before finding fame on the small screen, Amos’s career path was varied—he played professional football and worked in advertising before turning to writing and acting.

In 1964, Amos signed with the Denver Broncos of the American Football League (AFL) but was released early due to a hamstring injury. He went on to play for several teams in the United Football League and the Continental Football League during the mid-1960s, including the Canton Bulldogs, Joliet Explorers, Norfolk Neptunes, and Wheeling Ironmen. He also played for the Jersey City Jets and Waterbury Orbits of the Atlantic Coast Football League. In 1967, Amos signed with the Kansas City Chiefs.

John Amos at the 2007 American Music Awards at the Nokia Theatre, Los Angeles. November 19, 2007 Los Angeles, CA Picture: Paul Smith / Featureflash

Amos’s role on “Good Times” was particularly significant. The series, which aired from 1974 to 1979, was one of the first African American two-parent family sitcoms on television. However, his time on the show was marked by controversy; Amos was vocal about his dissatisfaction with the direction of the show, particularly the development of stereotypical characters, which he felt did not faithfully represent African American families. This outspokenness reportedly led to his dismissal after the third season.

Following his departure from “Good Times,” Amos’s career continued to flourish. His performance in “Roots,” an adaptation of Alex Haley’s novel about American slavery, earned him critical acclaim and an Emmy nomination. The series itself was groundbreaking, shedding light on the horrors of slavery and its legacy, and remains a significant piece of American television history.

Aside from his major roles, Amos appeared in a wide range of TV shows and movies, including “The West Wing,” “Men in Trees,” and “Coming to America,” showcasing his versatility as an actor. His commitment to challenging and reshaping African American narratives in Hollywood left a lasting impact on the industry. Off-screen, Amos was also known for his advocacy and philanthropic efforts. He was a champion for education and the arts, often speaking out about the importance of historical accuracy and representation in media.

(FREE RED HAT: “Impeached. Arrested. Convicted. Shot. Still Standing”)