American actor John Amos (left) and Jamaica Observer's Kevin Jackson in Ocho Rios, St Ann, recently. (Photo: Jonathan Holgate)
October 1, 2024
UNITED STATES — American actor John Amos, who is best known for his roles in works such as “Good Times,” Roots,” and “The West Wing,” has died.
His family confirmed news of his passing on Tuesday. It is reported that the actor died of natural causes in Los Angeles on August 21. He was 84 years old.
“It is with heartfelt sadness that I share with you that my father has transitioned,” the actor’s son Kelly Christopher Amos said in a statement. “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.”
Amos was most popular for his role as James Evans on “Good Times.” He starred in 61 episodes. He also played the adult Kunta Kinte in the 1977 TV miniseries “Roots.” He was also casted in the role of Cleo McDowell in “Coming to America” starring Eddie Murphy.
The ‘Good Times’ actor celebrated his 83rd birthday in Jamaica back in December 2022 with his son K C, who at the time, shared several videos of their island adventure including a visit to the Sugar Pot Beach in Rio Nuevo, St Mary and a trip to a rural cook shop to buy fritters.
READ: ‘Good Times’ in Jamaica for John Amos as actor celebrates 83rd birthday
The actor was in Jamaica until January 2023 and spoke to the Jamaica Observer about his iconic career and of course, his connection to the island.
Amos, who had been to Jamaica several times, said he was introduced to the country by Jamaican actress Madge Sinclair, who played Belle, his wife in Roots and together in the hit movie, Coming to America. Sinclair, who was best known for her role in the hospital drama series Trapper John MD, died in 1995. Her son is former Flow Country Manager Garry Sinclair.