John Amos, ‘Good Times’ and ‘Roots’ Actor, Dead at 84

John Amos, the actor who played the father from Good Times, has died. He was 84. Amos’ son Kelly Christopher confirmed Tuesday that the actor had died on Aug. 21 of natural causes in Los Angeles. “It is with heartfelt sadness that I share with you that my father has transitioned,” K.C. Amos said in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter. “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.” Amos played James Evans Sr. on CBS’s Good Times — the groundbreaking TV sitcom produced by Norman Lear focused on a Black family — during the series’ first three seasons. Along with the Good Times role, the actor starred as adult Kunta Kinte in Roots, which earned him an Emmy nomination. Amos also appeared in films such as Coming to America and its 2021 sequel Coming 2 America, 1989’s Lock Up, 1990’s Die Hard 2, 1993’s Night Trap, 1998’s The Players Club, and 1982’s The Beastmaster. “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,” added K.C. Amos. “He was my dad, my best friend, and my hero. Thank you for your prayers and support at this time.” On TV, Amos also had a recurring role as Admiral Percy on The West Wing and played DC Mayor Ethan Baker in The District. He also starred in a one-man play called Halley’s Comet. Before becoming an actor, Amos, who was born on Dec. 27, 1939, played football at Colorado State University and had training camps with both the Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs. His showbiz career took off when he played weatherman Gordy Howard on The Mary Tyler Moore Show.