John Amos, star of TV series ‘Good Times’ and ‘Roots,’ dies at 84

LOS ANGELES >> John Amos, the football player turned actor acclaimed for his roles in the 1970s television series “Good Times” as well as the miniseries “Roots,” died Aug. 21 in Los Angeles at the age of 84 years old. » said his son Kelly Christopher (KC) Amos.

Amos’ death, due to natural causes according to a press release, was only revealed today.

“It is with deep sadness that I share with you my father’s transition,” his son said in a statement.

“He was a man with the kindest heart and a heart of gold…and he was loved all over the world,” he added.

Amos played the father, James Evans, in 61 episodes of the sitcom “Good Times” in the mid-1970s, as well as the eldest Kunta Kinte in the television miniseries “Roots,” based on the 1976 novel about the slavery of Alex Haley. He also played meteorologist Gordy Howard on “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” during the same decade.

Amos also had a brief career as a professional footballer in the 1960s.

During the filming of “Good Times,” Amos often advocated for a more authentic portrayal of the black American family, criticizing the show’s writers for leaning into racial stereotypes.

He was also a veteran of the 50th Armored Division of the New Jersey National Guard and an honorary chief of the United States Coast Guard.