10 Things You Didn’t Know About John Amos

John Amos, the well-known actor from Good Times and Roots, passed away on August 21 in Los Angeles from natural causes. He was 84, as confirmed by his representative to Variety on Tuesday.

“With great sadness, I share that my father has passed away,” said his son Kelly Christopher Amos. “He was a man with a kind heart, loved by many around the world. For a lot of people, he was like their TV father.

He lived a good and full life, and his legacy will continue through his amazing work in TV and movies. Acting was his passion, and he kept working, most recently in Suits LA and in our documentary about his life, America’s Dad.

He was my dad, my best friend, and my hero. Thank you for your prayers and support during this time.”

But beyond his on-screen persona, there’s a lot more to know about this talented actor. Here are ten things you probably didn’t know about John Amos.

1. He Was Once a Professional Football Player

Before making his mark in acting, John Amos was a professional football player. He played for several teams in the 1960s, including the Denver Broncos in the American Football League. His athletic background added to his strong presence on-screen, particularly in his more physical roles.

2. He’s an Accomplished Writer

Amos is not just a talented actor; he’s also a skilled writer. He has written for television and theater, penning plays such as Halley’s Comet, a one-man show in which he also starred. The play was a reflection of his passion for storytelling, showcasing his versatility beyond acting.

3. He Was Fired from Good Times Over Creative Differences

Amos’s departure from Good Times surprised many fans. It was reportedly due to creative differences between Amos and the show’s producers. Amos was outspoken about the show’s direction, particularly in how it portrayed African American families. He believed the show should focus more on positive, realistic portrayals rather than relying on comedic stereotypes.

4. He Holds the Record for Playing Kunta Kinte at Three Different Ages

In the groundbreaking 1977 miniseries Roots, John Amos portrayed the adult version of Kunta Kinte, a character who spans multiple generations. Remarkably, Amos is the only actor in the Roots franchise to have played the character across different stages of life, solidifying his place in television history.

5. He Has a Military Background

Amos served in the New Jersey National Guard before becoming an actor. His military discipline and focus played a significant role in his career, both on and off-screen, as he maintained a strong work ethic and sense of responsibility.

6. He Worked as a Social Worker

In his early years, Amos worked as a social worker before venturing into acting full-time. This background gave him a unique perspective on the human condition, which he brought to many of his roles, especially those that dealt with social issues and family dynamics.

7. He Played in the CFL

Apart from his stint in the American Football League, John Amos also played in the Canadian Football League (CFL) for the Saskatchewan Roughriders. His time in professional sports was short-lived due to injuries, but it paved the way for his transition to acting.

8. He Was Once a Stand-Up Comedian

Before becoming a household name through television, Amos dabbled in stand-up comedy. His sense of humor and ability to engage an audience laid the foundation for his later success in sitcoms like Good Times. His comedic timing helped him deliver powerful performances in both comedic and dramatic roles.

9. He’s a Strong Advocate for Education

Throughout his career, Amos has been a vocal advocate for education, particularly for underprivileged communities. He has worked with several organizations to promote access to quality education for all, a cause he holds close to his heart due to his own life experiences.

10. Amos Has Received a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

In recognition of his long and diverse career, John Amos was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This accolade symbolizes his significant contribution to both television and film, and his influence on multiple generations of audiences.