John Amos, best known for his roles in Good Times, Roots, and Coming to America, has passed away at the age of 84. His son, Kelly Christopher "K.C." Amos, announced his death that the Emmy-nominated actor died of natural causes in Los Angeles on August 21, 2024.

“It is with heartfelt sadness that I share with you that my father has transitioned,” K.C. wrote. “He was a man with the kindest heart and a heart of gold and he was loved the world over." He added, "Many fans consider him their TV father. He lived a good life, and his legacy will live on in his outstanding works in television and film."

K.C. also shared how his father continued working up until his final years. “My father loved working as an actor throughout his entire life," he said, citing Amos’ recent appearance on Suits LA and their collaborative documentary America's Dad, which chronicled his father’s life and career. "He was my dad, my best friend, and my hero," K.C. concluded.

Julia Buchwald, president of the talent agency Buchwald, also expressed her condolences. “We were so proud to represent John. He was not only a remarkable talent but also a deeply kind and generous soul. His impact on the industry and those who knew him will never be forgotten.”

Amos had faced health challenges leading up to his death, including a hospitalization in 2023 due to fluid buildup in his lower body, which affected his heart. This came after a public dispute involving his daughter Shannon Amos, who alleged her father was a victim of elder abuse.

Amos denied these claims, calling them “false and unmerited,” and defended his son, K.C. The Los Angeles Police Department investigated the allegations but closed the case due to a lack of evidence in April 2024. Despite the controversy, Amos expressed gratitude for the authorities' professionalism and continued to work on a documentary intended to clarify the truth behind the claims.

Born on December 27, 1939, in Newark, New Jersey, John Allen Amos Jr. grew up in East Orange and graduated from East Orange High School in 1958. He later attended Long Beach City College before earning a sociology degree from Colorado State University, where he also played football. Before turning to acting, Amos briefly pursued a career in professional football, playing for teams in the United Football League and Continental Football League.

Amos rose to fame with his role as Gordy Howard, the weatherman, on The Mary Tyler Moore Show (1970-1973). He became a household name with his portrayal of James Evans Sr. on Good Times (1974-1976), though his tenure on the show was cut short due to disagreements over the direction of his character and the show's portrayal of African-American life.

In 1977, Amos earned widespread acclaim for his role as the adult Kunta Kinte in the groundbreaking miniseries Roots, based on Alex Haley’s book. His performance earned him an Emmy nomination and solidified his status as one of television’s most respected actors. Amos also appeared in numerous films, including The Beastmaster (1982), Coming to America (1988), Die Hard 2 (1990), and Coming 2 America (2021).


Amos was married twice. He had two children, Shannon and K.C., with his first wife, artist Noel Mickelson. The contentious relationship between his children over their father's care became public in his later years. His second marriage was to actress Lillian Lehman, though it lasted only a year. Amos lived in New Jersey for many years before moving to Colorado in 2018 and eventually to Los Angeles in 2023.

A veteran of the 50th Armored Division of the New Jersey National Guard and an honorary Master Chief of the United States Coast Guard, Amos left a significant legacy both on and off the screen. His enduring impact on television, film, and the African-American community continues to resonate long after his passing.

John Amos died on August 21, 2024, at the age of 84. His death was not publicly announced until October 1, 2024.