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John Amos, Good Times and Roots Star, Dies at 84

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John Amos, Good Times and Roots Star, Dies at 84

As a cinephile with a deep appreciation for the rich tapestry of Black representation in television and film, I am deeply saddened by the passing of John Amos. His illustrious career spanning over five decades has left an indelible mark on my heart and mind, and his impact will continue to resonate for generations to come.

The well-known actor, John Amos, who portrayed the head of the family on the popular 1970s sitcom “Good Times” and received an Emmy nomination for his role in the influential 1977 miniseries “Roots,” has passed away at the age of 84.

On Tuesday, it was confirmed by Amos’ representative, Belinda Foster, that he had passed away. At this time, further information is not yet disclosed.

He portrayed James Evans Sr. on the TV show “Good Times,” a groundbreaking series that depicted one of the first Black families with two parents. This production was overseen by Norman Lear and co-created by actor Mike Evans, who also starred in “All in the Family” and “The Jeffersons.” The show aired from 1974 to 1979 on CBS television network.

In 2021, Amos shared with Time Magazine that the series was the most authentic portrayal possible, given the experiences of an African-American family under those specific conditions.

The personality portrayed by him, alongside his character wife Florida (played by Esther Rolle), initially appeared on another series produced by Lear, titled “Maude.” James Evans frequently held down two physical labor positions to financially sustain his family consisting of three kids. Notably, Jimmie Walker’s character as the eldest son J.J. gained significant popularity in this show.

The influence of the show was so profound that artists like Alicia Keys, Rick Ross, and the Wu-Tang Clan have referenced Amos or his character in their songs’ lyrics.

Amos and Rolle yearned to depict an uplifting picture of a Black family battling challenges within a public housing complex in Chicago. However, they became disheartened as Walker’s character was often portrayed as foolish and his part enlarged.

In his 2012 memoir “Dyn-O-Mite! Good Times, Bad Times, Our Times”, Walker stated that the criticism from Esther, John, and others – some of it quite sharp and personal in nature – significantly undermined my popularity within the Black community.

Following three successful seasons with favorable reviews and strong viewership, Amos found himself let go from the show. This decision came about due to his growing discontent with the white writing team crafting narratives that he perceived as inaccurate for the Black characters.

In a conversation with Time magazine, he stated, “There were many instances where I objected strongly to certain actions, arguing they went against Black community values. I took on the role of expert in these matters if you don’t mind, and this led to heated arguments that escalated significantly. Eventually, it was decided that my character being written off the show was the most appropriate resolution for all parties involved, including myself.

In a tragic turn of events, Amos’ character met his end in a car crash. Walker expressed his regret over this unfortunate situation. In his memoirs, he shared, “Had I been given the choice, I would have chosen for John to stay and keep the show focused on its ensemble cast.” He added that neither he nor anyone else desired him to be the constant central figure.

After making up, Amos and Lear exchanged a warm embrace during the “Good Times” live television reunion special that took place in 2019.

As a passionate film enthusiast, I swiftly regained my footing, snatching the coveted role of the mature Kunta Kinte, the pivotal figure in the epic saga “Roots,” which was adapted from Alex Haley’s acclaimed novel that delved into the tumultuous period of American slavery. This miniseries was a triple threat, garnering immense critical acclaim and record-breaking viewership, and I was honored to be among its 37 Emmy nominees.

He shared with Time magazine that he saw this role as transformative, both professionally as an actor and on a personal level. It represented the end of the limited, stereotypical roles he had been given in the past. Taking this part felt like recognition for having endured those humiliations.

John Allen Amos Jr., who hails from Newark, New Jersey, born on December 27, 1939, is the offspring of a car mechanic. He earned his degree in sociology from Colorado State University, where he also played football.

Prior to his acting career, he resided in New York and served as a social worker at the Vera Institute of Justice, where he assisted detainees at the Brooklyn House of Detention.

In the early years, he embarked on a short-lived football journey, participating in several lower-tier leagues. In 1967, he was given a free agent contract by the Kansas City Chiefs, but coach Hank Stram advised Amos to focus more on his passion for writing. Prior to stepping into the limelight, he held roles as an advertising and comedy writer.

In the years 1970 to 1973, Amos made his significant debut in television roles by portraying Gordy Howard, a weathercaster, on “The Mary Tyler Moore Show.” As the only African American character on the show, he often played the straight man to the eccentric Ted Baxter, the bombastic anchor.

Among Amos’ movie roles were “Let’s Do It Again” starring Bill Cosby and Sidney Poitier, the original “Coming to America” and its 2021 sequel, “Die Hard 2”, “Madea’s Witness Protection” and “Uncut Gems” alongside Adam Sandler. He also appeared in Ice Cube and Dr. Dre’s 1994 music video for “Natural Born Killaz.

I’ve had the privilege of gracing various television shows throughout my career, with “The West Wing” being a regular stop for me. Other series where you might have seen me include “Hunter,” “The District,” “Men in Trees,” “All About the Andersons,” “Two and a Half Men,” and most recently, “The Ranch.

2020 marked the year when Amos was honored by being inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame. Prior to this, he had served in the New Jersey National Guard.

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2024-10-01 23:07

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