John Amos: A Legacy in Television and Film
John Allen Amos Jr. (December 27, 1939 – August 21, 2024) was a celebrated American actor best known for his role as James Evans Sr. on the CBS television series Good Times and as the adult Kunta Kinte in the groundbreaking miniseries Roots. His career spanned several decades, during which he made significant contributions to both television and film.
Early Life and Education
Born in Newark, New Jersey, John Amos was the son of Annabelle and John A. Amos Sr., an auto mechanic. He grew up in East Orange, New Jersey, and graduated from East Orange High School in 1958. Amos attended Long Beach City College before transferring to Colorado State University, where he earned a degree in sociology and played for the university’s football team. Post-college, he became a Golden Gloves boxing champion.
Football Career
Before his acting career took off, Amos pursued professional football. In 1964, he signed a free-agent contract with the Denver Broncos but was released due to a hamstring injury. He went on to play for several minor league teams, including the Canton Bulldogs and the Norfolk Neptunes. In 1967, he signed with the Kansas City Chiefs, but Coach Hank Stram advised him to consider other career paths.
Acting Career
Breakthrough with Good Times
Amos gained prominence as Gordy Howard, the weatherman on The Mary Tyler Moore Show from 1970 to 1973. He achieved widespread recognition for his portrayal of James Evans Sr. on Good Times (1974–1976), a role that resonated with many for its authentic depiction of an African-American family facing societal challenges. Despite creative differences with the show’s writers over the portrayal of his character and the show’s direction, his performance left a lasting impact.
Roots and Further Success
In 1977, Amos starred as the adult Kunta Kinte in the acclaimed miniseries Roots, earning a Primetime Emmy Award nomination. His performance highlighted the brutal realities of slavery and contributed to important cultural conversations.
Film Roles and Television Appearances
Amos appeared in numerous films, including:
- The World’s Greatest Athlete (1973)
- Let’s Do It Again (1975)
- Coming to America (1988) and its sequel Coming 2 America (2021)
- Die Hard 2 (1990)
- Dr. Dolittle 3 (2006)
He also had recurring roles on television shows such as The West Wing, where he played Admiral Percy Fitzwallace, and The District as Mayor Ethan Baker. Amos made guest appearances on popular series like Two and a Half Men, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and The Ranch.
Stage and Writing
Beyond screen acting, Amos wrote and produced the critically acclaimed one-man play Halley’s Comet, which he performed internationally. He also appeared on Broadway in August Wilson’s Gem of the Ocean.
Personal Life
Amos served in the 50th Armored Division of the New Jersey National Guard and was an Honorary Master Chief of the U.S. Coast Guard. He was married twice; his first marriage to Noel Mickelson produced two children, Shannon and K.C. Amos. His second marriage was to actress Lillian Lehman.
In 2023, concerns arose regarding his well-being, leading to an investigation by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation into possible elder abuse. Amos relocated to Los Angeles later that year.
Death and Legacy
John Amos passed away from congestive heart failure on August 21, 2024, in Inglewood, California, at the age of 84. His death was publicly announced on October 1, 2024. Amos’s contributions to the entertainment industry have been recognized with multiple awards, including nominations for a Primetime Emmy and an NAACP Image Award. In 2020, he was inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame.
Awards and Honors
- Primetime Emmy Award: Nominated for his role in Roots
- NAACP Image Award: Nominated for outstanding performances
- TV Land Awards: Received for his roles in The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Good Times, and Roots
- New Jersey Hall of Fame: Inducted in 2020
John Amos leaves behind a rich legacy as a trailblazer in television and film, remembered for his powerful performances and commitment to portraying authentic African-American experiences on screen.
