John Amos, star of 'Good Times' and 'Roots,' dies at 84, cause of death revealed

In 1977, Amos delivered an unforgettable performance as Kunta Kinte in the acclaimed miniseries "Roots."

John Amos, the actor best known for his roles as James Evans Sr. in the beloved sitcom "Good Times" and Kunta Kinte in the groundbreaking miniseries "Roots," has tragically passed away at the age of 84. His death was confirmed by his longtime publicist, Belinda Foster, who shared that Amos died peacefully in Los Angeles on August 21 due to natural causes.

Amos' son, Kelly Christopher Amos, released a heartfelt statement expressing his grief and honoring his father's legacy. "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."  

A Life of Achievement

Born and raised in East Orange, New Jersey, Amos initially pursued a career in sports, playing football at Colorado State University. However, his passion for acting eventually led him to pursue a successful career in Hollywood. He gained recognition for his roles in various 1970s sitcoms, including "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" and "Sanford and Son."

His breakthrough came with his portrayal of James Evans Sr. in "Good Times," a groundbreaking sitcom that tackled social and racial issues with humor and sensitivity. Amos' performance as the stern yet loving patriarch earned him widespread acclaim and solidified his status as a television icon.

In 1977, Amos delivered another unforgettable performance as Kunta Kinte in the acclaimed miniseries "Roots," based on Alex Haley's best-selling novel. His powerful portrayal of the enslaved African captured the hearts of millions and earned him an Emmy nomination.

A Lasting Legacy

Throughout his career, John Amos graced the screen with his talent and versatility, leaving an indelible mark on television and film. His contributions to the entertainment industry will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for generations to come.