John Amos, the acclaimed actor known for his roles in Roots and Good Times, has died at the age of 84.
Amos died of natural causes on Aug. 21, a representative for Amos confirmed to Variety today. His son, Kelly Christopher Amos, mourned his dad's passing in a statement.
"It is with heartfelt sadness that I share with you that my father has transitioned," he said. "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," he continued. "My father loved working as an actor throughout his entire life… Most recently in Suits: L.A. playing himself and our documentary about his life journey as an actor, America’s Dad." Amos spoke about the docuseries with People earlier this year.
"He was my dad, my best friend, and my hero," his son concluded. "Thank you for your prayers and support at this time."
Amos' big break came in 1970 when he began playing Gordy the Weatherman on The Mary Tyler Moore Show, his first major TV role. In 1974, he began starring as father James Evans on the beloved sitcom Good Times. When his role on the show wrapped up after three seasons, he took on another iconic role as the adult Kunta Kinte in the legendary miniseries Roots, playing a grown-up version of the character made famous by a young LeVar Burton. Amos went on to earn an Emmy nomination for his work on Roots.
Amos went on to star in movies like Let's Do It Again and Coming to America. Later in life, he had roles on shows like The West Wing and guest spots on 30 Rock, Two and a Half Men, and more. He continued acting until recently with appearances on The Righteous Gemstones in 2022 and last year's The Last Rifleman.
