John Amos, born on December 27, 1939, in New Jersey, is a towering figure in the entertainment industry, renowned for his commanding presence, powerful personality, and unforgettable performances. Despite facing the challenges of racial stereotypes and Hollywood’s limitations, Amos has forged a remarkable career, leaving an indelible mark on both stage and screen.
Before stepping into the spotlight, Amos explored various paths, including advertising copywriting, social work, and semi-professional football. His journey into acting began unexpectedly with stand-up comedy in Greenwich Village, which led to a staff writer position on Leslie Uggams’ musical variety show. His stage debut followed in 1971, where he earned critical acclaim for his performance in a Los Angeles production of “Norman, Is That You?”.
Amos’s television career took off with his role as James Evans on “Good Times,” a groundbreaking sitcom that explored the lives of a Black family in a Chicago ghetto. Despite the show’s popularity, Amos grew frustrated with the lack of depth and complexity in his character, eventually leaving the series in 1976.
His defining moment came in 1977 with his portrayal of the adult Kunta Kinte in the iconic miniseries “Roots,” a performance that earned him an Emmy nomination and cemented his status as a leading man. However, finding substantial roles for Black actors remained a challenge, and Amos often found himself typecast in stereotypical roles.
Theater became a refuge for Amos, where he could showcase his versatility and depth. He won numerous awards for his performances in stage productions such as “Split Second,” “The Boys Next Door,” and “Master Harold…and the Boys.” Amos also directed several notable plays, including “Twelve Angry Men” and “Miss Reardon Drinks a Little in the Bahamas.”
Beyond his acting career, Amos has explored other creative avenues, including directing and producing. He has also been a vocal advocate for social justice, using his platform to raise awareness about important issues. His commitment to excellence and his unwavering belief in his craft have made John Amos a true force of nature in the entertainment industry.
In addition to his accomplishments on stage and screen, Amos has also made significant contributions to the world of sports. He was a talented athlete in his youth, excelling in both boxing and football. Amos even played professional football for the Norfolk Neptunes in the late 1960s. His athletic prowess and competitive spirit have undoubtedly shaped his character and fueled his drive to succeed in the entertainment industry.
Amos’s impact extends beyond his professional achievements. He has been a role model for countless aspiring actors and has inspired a new generation of artists to pursue their dreams. His unwavering dedication to his craft, his willingness to take risks, and his commitment to social justice have made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry and a source of inspiration for many.
| Name | John Amos |
| Date Of Birth | December 27, 1939. |
| Aged | 84 years old – Died 21 Aug 2024 |
| State Of Origin | Newark, New Jersey-United States |
| Net Worth | Approximately $3 million |
| Instagram Handle | John Amos |
| Relationship Status | 1. Noel Jean Mickelson (1965–1975), with whom he has two children, K.C. Amos and Shannon Amos. 2. Lillian Lehman (1978–1979). 3. Elisabete de Sousa (married until 2005). |
Family
- Spouses:
- Lillian Lehman (February 12, 1978 – November 28, 1979) (divorced)
- Noel Jean Mickelson (December 27, 1965 – August 1975) (divorced, 2 children)
- Elisabete de Sousa (? – 2005) (divorced, 2 children)
- Children:
- K.C. Amos
- Shannon Amos
- Parents:
- John Amos Sr.
- Annabelle P. Amos
- Grandchild:
- Quiera Williams
Quirks
- Former Golden Gloves boxing champion
- Played football at Colorado State University and professionally with the Norfolk Neptunes
- Worked as a social worker and advertising copywriter before acting
- Cast as the father in Good Times despite being only eight years older than Jimmie Walker, who played his son J.J.
Favourite Quotes
- “There are three stages in an actor’s career: Who is John Amos? Get me John Amos. Get me a young John Amos.”
- “I love my work and am grateful to God to have a profession that brings joy to so many.”
- “They killed my character off and, as God would have it, just when they told me I would never work again, I got cast in Roots (1977) and, as they would say, the rest is history.”