John Amos died on August 21 in Los Angeles of natural causes, his representative confirmed on Tuesday. He was 84.
“With a career spanning over five decades, Amos leaves behind a legacy of groundbreaking work in both television and film, along with a commitment to positive African American representation in media,” the statement read.
The late actor is best known for his role as James Evans Sr. on Good Times, where he portrayed a hardworking father striving to provide for his family in a challenging environment. His character’s emphasis on education and family values made a lasting impact on viewers.
Amos’ Net Worth
Amos’ net worth reportedly ranges from $300,000 to $3 million, according to multiple outlets. The American actor and former football player has had an extensive career but has faced financial challenges, including issues related to real estate.
In 1990, Amos purchased a home in Lebanon, New Jersey, for $337,000. In December 2016, he listed the property for sale at $439,000. Unfortunately, he was unable to find a buyer, and two years later, the home slipped into foreclosure. In April 2021, either Amos or his bank sold the property for $288,000.
Amos’ Wife and Kids
Amos was married twice and had two kids. His daughter, Shannon, was born in New Jersey in 1966 to Amos and his wife, Noel J. Mickelson. Their second child, Kelly Christopher “K.C.,” was born in 1970.
After Amos and Mickelson divorced in 1975, Amos married actress Lillian Lehman in 1978, but they divorced the following year.
In June 2023, John’s daughter set up a GoFundMe with the goal of raising $500,000 to support him. She claimed that John had been a victim of elder and financial abuse. However, John responded to Shannon’s claims by refuting them and questioning who had established the GoFundMe and why.
Amos’ Famous Movies and TV Shows
Amos is probably best known for his role on the CBS sitcom Good Times. He starred in 61 episodes of the show between 1974 and 1976. He is also known for his Emmy-nominated performance in the 1977 miniseries Roots. Among his other television credits are The West Wing, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, and The District. Additionally, Amos has performed on Broadway and appeared in a variety of films, including Coming to America, Coming to America 2, and Die Hard 2.
His last acting appearance was in the 2023 British film The Last Rifleman.