The news of John Amos’s passing has led to an outpouring of heartfelt tributes from fans and colleagues alike. Known for his iconic performances in Good Times, Coming to America, and Roots, the actor passed away from natural causes on August 21 in Los Angeles, as confirmed by his son, Kelly Christopher “K.C.” Amos, in a statement to PEOPLE. Amos was 84 years old.
Describing his father, Kelly shared, “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.”
John Amos, known as the TV father to many, is remembered for his kindness and impactful performances
He added, “My father loved working as an actor throughout his entire life, most recently in Suits LA, playing himself, and in our documentary about his life journey as an actor, America’s Dad. He was my dad, my best friend, and my hero.”
Jimmie Walker, his costar from Good Times, also expressed his condolences, stating, “John was a great actor, and my condolences go out to his entire family, friends, and his many, many fans.”
Martin Lawrence shared his feelings about the loss in a post on X (formerly Twitter), writing, “This one hits different. My condolences go out to the family of a true legend, John Amos 🙏🏽.”
Al Roker took to Instagram to share a carousel of photos, stating that Amos “will be missed.” He remarked, “Whether in Roots, Mary Tyler Moore, Good Times, Coming to America, and other roles, John Amos brought dignity, grace, and honesty to his performances.
I remember him as Gordy the Weatherman at WJM when he was just starting as a TV weather guy in 1974, seeing him as a role model. And when he quit Good Times, people respected him for his stand.”
Loni Love, who worked alongside Amos in the 2015 film Bad Asses on the Bayou, shared her memories of him as well. “I had the honor to work with John Amos on the movie Bad Asses on the Bayou. He played my dad… we had a ball!!” she wrote in a post on X. “Such a talented actor, and I learned a lot by working with him. Condolences to his family.”
Garcelle Beauvais, his costar from Coming to America, shared a selfie of the two on her Instagram Stories, stating, “I will miss you, John,” accompanied by a broken heart emoji and prayer hands.
Reginald VelJohnson, who appeared with Amos in Die Hard 2, reflected on his legacy: “John Amos was a superior actor, a gentleman, and a great inspiration to me. My sincere condolences to his family. He will be missed.”
