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LOS ANGELES — John Amos, beloved for his role as James Evans Sr. on the groundbreaking 1970s sitcom *Good Times* and acclaimed for his portrayal of Kunta Kinte in the miniseries *Roots*, has passed away at the age of 84. His publicist, Belinda Foster, confirmed the news on Tuesday, although details surrounding his passing have not yet been released.
Amos played a pivotal role in *Good Times*, which aired from 1974 to 1979 and depicted one of television’s first Black two-parent families. Co-created by Norman Lear and actor Mike Evans, the show showcased the challenges and triumphs of a Black family living in a Chicago public housing project. “That show was the closest depiction of reality for an African American family during that time,” Amos remarked in a 2021 interview with *Time* magazine.
Alongside Esther Rolle, who portrayed his wife Florida, Amos sought to present a positive image of Black family life. However, tensions arose when the show’s producers began to emphasize the comedic antics of the eldest son, J.J., played by Jimmie Walker. Amos expressed frustration over the portrayal, leading to his eventual dismissal after three successful seasons. “I became critical of the show’s storylines, which I felt were inauthentic to Black culture,” he stated.
Despite the challenges he faced, Amos went on to achieve great success, most notably in *Roots*, which garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards, including 37 Emmy nominations. Reflecting on the role, Amos said, “It was a life-changing experience, marking a culmination of the misconceptions and stereotypes I had encountered throughout my career.”
Born John Allen Amos Jr. on December 27, 1939, in Newark, New Jersey, Amos initially pursued a career in sociology, graduating from Colorado State University. His journey to acting began after a brief stint in professional football and a role as a social worker. He eventually landed his first major television role as Gordy Howard, the weatherman on *The Mary Tyler Moore Show*.
Amos’s impressive film career includes notable titles such as *Let’s Do It Again*, *Coming to America*, and *Uncut Gems*. He also made memorable guest appearances on various popular TV shows, including *The West Wing* and *Two and a Half Men*.
In 2020, Amos was honored with induction into the New Jersey Hall of Fame, celebrating his contributions to both entertainment and his community. He leaves behind a legacy that has inspired countless artists and audiences alike, remembered not only for his talent but also for his dedication to portraying authentic and positive representations of Black life on screen.
John Amos’s impact on television and film will be felt for generations to come, and his contributions to the industry will not be forgotten.
