John Amos, Star of 1970s TV Series ‘Good Times’ and ‘Roots,’ Passes Away at 84

By Danielle Broadway

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – John Amos, the former U.S. football player who became a celebrated actor, passed away on August 21 at the age of 84, according to his son Kelly Christopher Amos. His death was not reported until the following Tuesday.

"It is with heartfelt sadness that I share with you that my father has transitioned," his son stated. "He was a man with the kindest heart and a heart of gold… and he was loved the world over."

Amos gained fame for his portrayal of James Evans, the father in the hit sitcom "Good Times," where he appeared in 61 episodes during the mid-1970s. He also played the older Kunta Kinte in the critically acclaimed miniseries "Roots," which was adapted from Alex Haley’s 1976 novel that explored the history of slavery. Moreover, he portrayed Gordy Howard, the TV weatherman, in "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" during the same era.

In addition to his acting career, Amos had a brief stint in professional football during the 1960s.