Sitcom legend dies as heartbroken son remembers his 'heart of gold'
A sitcom icon has died at the age of 84, with his son remembering his “heart of gold”. John Amos, who was known for his roles in Good Times, Coming to America and Roots, died in Los Angeles on Wednesday, 21 August of natural causes, his son Kelly Christopher Amos revealed.
“It is with heartfelt sadness that I share with you that my father has transitioned. 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 said in a statement.
“My father loved working as an actor throughout his entire life…. Most recently in Suits LA playing himself and our documentary about his life journey as an actor, America’s Dad. He was my dad, my best friend, and my hero. Thank you for your prayers and support at this time.”
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Born in 1939 in New Jersey, John started off his career away from the world of acting and pursued success in the world of sport instead. After playing football at Colorado State University, he tried out for American Football League teams including the Denver Broncos and the Kansas City Chiefs.
However, John soon found fame on the small screen when he secured the role of weatherman Gordy Howard on The Mary Tyler Moore Show between 1970 and 1973. After his appearance on the show, he secured roles on other programmes including The New Dick Van Dyke Show, Love, American Style and Sanford and Son.
During his time on our screens, he also played older Kunta Kinte in the miniseries Roots in 1977 as well as James Evans Sr. in Good Times. The show centred around Florida Evans, her husband James, and their family, and was a spin-off of the show Maude.
In response to the sad news, fans took to social media to pay tribute to the talented actor. “John Amos, my friend. John Amos, who laid the pathway for many of us to follow. Thank you John for coming this way, Kunta Kinte,” wrote one person on X.
“RIP John Amos I first saw him in the TV miniseries ‘Roots’. His performance had a profound effect on me, can’t lie,” added another. ““DAMN DAMN DAMN!!!” is right… Rest In Power, John Amos. Thank you for everything. You will truly be missed,” a third commented.
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