John Amos, a beloved actor best known for his role as James Evans on 1970s sitcom Good Times, has died. He was 84.
According to Amos’ publicist, Belinda Foster, the actor passed away of natural causes on Aug. 21 in Los Angeles. Although his death was just confirmed to the Associated Press on Tuesday, Oct. 1.
Amos gained fame portraying the patriarch on Good Times. His character, James Evans, resonated with audiences for his depiction of strength, determination, and love for his family.
Set in a Chicago housing project, the Maude spinoff was notable for being one of the first network series created by African Americans. The comedy came from Eric Monte and Mike Evans and was developed by Norman Lear.
Related: ‘Good Times’ Star Ja’Net DuBois Cause of Death Released
However, after three seasons, Amos left the show, reportedly due to creative disagreements and dissatisfaction with the direction of the scripts. He always stood by his values and contributed to the representation of Black culture in American media.
Despite his departure from Good Times, Amos and executive producer Norman Lear reconciled years later, sharing a public embrace during a Good Times live television reunion special in 2019.
Shortly after leaving the series, Amos starred in the landmark 1977 miniseries Roots, about the horrors of slavery in America.
He played the role of an adult Kunta Kinte, which earned him an Emmy nomination.
Since then, the actor has had recurring roles on NBC’s The West Wing, ABC series Men in Trees, CBS sitcom Two and a Half Men, Netflix series The Ranch, and he co-starred in the film, Madea’s Witness Protection. Most recently he reprised his role as Cleo McDowell in the sequel to Coming to America.
John Amos is survived by his daughter and son.
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