John Amos, the talented television actor recognized for his performances in The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Good Times, The West Wing, and Roots, has passed away at the age of 84.
His family shared that Amos died of natural causes in his Los Angeles home on August 21, but the announcement was only made public today.
“With deep sadness, I announce that my father has transitioned,” his son, Kelly Christopher Amos, said in a statement to Deadline. “He was a man with an incredibly kind heart and a golden spirit… loved by people everywhere. Many fans regarded him as their TV father.”
Born on December 27, 1939, in Newark, New Jersey, Amos initially pursued a career in football, playing in the Continental Football League and the Atlantic Coast Football League. He was signed by the Denver Broncos in 1964 but was released before the season due to an injury.
His acting career, however, proved more successful. He gained recognition as weatherman Gordy Howard on the popular sitcom The Mary Tyler Moore Show, a role he held from 1970 to 1973.
Amos is best remembered for his portrayal of James Evans, the father in the classic sitcom Good Times. At just 34 years old when he was cast, he convincingly depicted a hardworking father of three living in a low-income housing project.
The show was lauded for its exploration of significant issues like poverty and racism. However, as the series progressed, Amos had disagreements with the writers and producers regarding the portrayal of Black families and the show’s shift toward broader comedic themes. After season 3, he was let go, and his character met his end in a car accident.
Shortly thereafter, Amos took on another defining role as the adult Kunta Kinte in the groundbreaking miniseries Roots, for which he received an Emmy nomination.
He is also known for his role as Admiral Percy Fitzwallace, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, in the political drama The West Wing. Additionally, he had recurring roles in Two and a Half Men and The Ranch.
Among his notable film credits are Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song, Die Hard 2, Coming to America, and its sequel.
“He led a fulfilling life, and his legacy will endure through his remarkable contributions to television and film,” his son expressed in the statement. “My father cherished his work as an actor throughout his life.”
“He was my father, my closest friend, and my hero. I appreciate your prayers and support during this difficult time.”
Paris Jackson just turned 25, reveals what Michael Jackson was actually like as a father
Paris Jackson was born on April 3, 1998 in California, the second child of legendary musician Michael Jackson. Growing up in the shadow of the “King of Pop,” her life was anything but ordinary from the start. Her early years were a mix of privilege and isolation, shielded from the public eye by her father and siblings who valued privacy and a non-traditional education.
Paris and her brothers were homeschooled through sixth grade and were spared the relentless media scrutiny that dominated Michael Jackson’s life. Her father, deeply committed to a rich upbringing, exposed her to diverse cultures and experiences that went beyond the glare of fame. Paris fondly remembers how these experiences broadened her worldview and instilled in her values such as cultural appreciation and hard work. Even at a young age, she understood how important it is to be successful on your own.
At the age of 11, tragedy struck in Paris when her father suddenly passed away, thrusting her into the spotlight. Her poignant speech at his memorial service marked her public debut and gave the world a glimpse into Michael Jackson’s private family life. Paris and her brothers then accepted their father’s posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award at the Grammy Awards, further cementing their public presence.
Navigating her youth amid her father’s legacy proved to be a challenge. Paris faced personal problems that culminated in a period of change at a therapeutic boarding school in Utah. This experience was pivotal in improving her mental health and becoming a stronger person.
Despite the importance of her family name, Paris was determined to forge her own path. She graduated from high school and valued modeling as a means of self-expression, which helped her attract the attention of prestigious publications. Her unique style and individuality shined on the covers of Rolling Stone, Vogue and Narcisse, making her a fashion icon in her own right.
In 2020, Paris ventured into the music industry with her debut album “Wilted”, showcasing an indie-folk sound that explores themes of heartbreak and love. Although Paris is influenced by her father’s musical legacy, she is focused on developing her own identity in the industry.
Throughout her journey, Paris Jackson remains deeply connected to her father’s memory. She finds solace in dreams in which Michael Jackson continues to guide and comfort her, underscoring their enduring bond.
Paris Jackson’s story is one of resilience and growth, handling fame and personal loss with grace. She serves as an inspiration to those who face adversity and embodies the pursuit of individuality amid the challenges of her extraordinary upbringing.
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