John Amos Dies: 'Good Times' and 'Roots' Star Was 84

John Amos, a renowned actor best known for his role as James Evans in the 1970s sitcom Good Times, has died. He was 84.

According to Amos' publicist, Belinda Foster, the actor died of natural causes on August 21 in Los Angeles. Although his death was first announced to the Associated Press on Tuesday, October 1.

Amos became well-known for his role as the dad on Good Times. His character, James Evans, captivated audiences with his portrayal of courage, tenacity, and love for his family.

The Maude spinoff, set in a Chicago housing project, was remarkable for being one of the first African American-created network series. Eric Monte and Mike Evans created the comedy, which Norman Lear developed.

However, after three seasons, Amos quit the show, citing creative disputes and displeasure with the script's direction. He consistently upheld his ideals and contributed to the depiction of Black culture in American media.

Despite his departure from Good Times, Amos and executive producer Norman Lear reconciled years later, sharing a public hug during the show's live television reunion special in 2019.

Shortly after leaving the series, Amos participated in the seminal 1977 miniseries Roots, which explored the horrors of slavery in America.

He received an Emmy nomination for his performance as adult Kunta Kinte.

Since then, the actor has had recurring parts on NBC's The West Wing, ABC's Men in Trees, the CBS sitcom Two and a Half Men, Netflix's The Ranch, and co-starred in the film Madea's Witness Protection. He recently reprised his role as Cleo McDowell in the sequel to Coming to America.

John Amos is survived by a daughter and son.