John Amos Dead at 84

One of the most beloved Black sitcom fathers, John Amos, who played James Evans on “Good Times” has died at the age of 84.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the family has announced that Amos died of natural causes on Aug. 21 in Los Angeles. His son, K.C. Amos, stated: “It is with heartfelt sadness that I share with you that my father has transitioned,” he said in a written statement. “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, ‘Good Times’ Dad, Dies at 84 https://t.co/kgSvnXBE5V

— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) October 1, 2024

No reason was given as to why his death was just being reported.

Amos played football on a scholarship at Colorado State University and although his career trajectory took a different path, he reportedly had training camp tryouts with the Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs of the American Football League.

He took up acting instead of pursuing a football career, citing God as leading him in that direction. Amos tried out for several teams, including the Norfolk Neptunes of the Continental Football League and the British Columbia Lions of the Canadian Football League.

“God kept telling me, ‘I don’t want you playing football,’” he said. “The direction I was getting from above was to be a performer, to be a writer, something that I had always done and came easy for me.”

After playing a weatherman on the sitcom, “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” his acting career took off.

He was known for his roles on television shows like, “Roots,” “Two and a Half Men,” “Hunter,” and “The West Wing.” Movies that featured Amos include, “Coming  to America,” “Madea’s Witness Protection,” “Let’s Do It Again,” “Richochet” and “The Players Club.”

He is survived by his son, K.C., and daughter, Shannon Amos.

John Amos Dead at 84