SUMMARY
  • 'Good Times' actor John Amos passed away at 84.
  • He broke barriers in Hollywood with iconic roles and humor.
  • Check out his classic movies for a legendary experience.

John Amos, the legendary actor known for iconic roles in Good Times and Roots, has sadly left us at the age of 84. He passed away on August 21 in Los Angeles, and the cause was natural.

Amos was not just an actor—he was a pioneer. His journey began as a football player before he made waves in Hollywood. Remember the first time you watched Good Times? That show broke ground with its portrayal of a Black, two-parent family.

John Amos and Esther Rolle in Good Times
John Amos and Esther Rolle in Good Times (Credits: CBS)

Amos brought so much heart and humor to the screen that you couldn’t help but love him. His role as the wise, witty James Evans Sr. was just the beginning. From being a comedic weatherman on The Mary Tyler Moore Show to the serious adult Kunta Kinte in Roots, he showcased his range

Sadly, we lost this Hollywood gem, but his work is forever embedded in pop culture. With a net worth of $300,000, he may not have amassed a fortune, but his impact on television and film is truly priceless.

Top John Amos Movies You Can’t Afford to Miss

Check out these must-watch movies that truly highlight John Amos’ talent.

Coming to America (1988)

John Amos as Cleo McDowell in Coming to America
John Amos as Cleo McDowell in Coming to America (Credits: Walt Disney Pictures)

Ah, Coming to America. This 1988 classic is a royal buffet of laughs! John Amos played Cleo McDowell, the boss dad of Lisa McDowell (Shari Headley), Prince Akeem’s (Eddie Murphy) love interest. He’s strict, proud, and totally skeptical of Murphy’s character.

Imagine trying to woo your girlfriend’s dad when he thinks you’re just a royal weirdo! Cleo’s witty one-liners are the cherry on top. It’s a comedy that serves up cultural clashes and hilarious moments, making it a must-see.

Die Hard 2 (1990)

John Amos as Major Grant in Die Hard 2
John Amos as Major Grant in Die Hard 2 (Credits: 20th Century Studios)

In Die Hard 2, John Amos played Major Grant, the villain you can’t help but love to hate. Grant is a corrupt Army Special Forces commander who leads an anti-terrorist squad called Blue Light. 

This guy is ruthless, trying to pull off some shady stuff while John McClane (Bruce Willis) is just trying to save the day. Major Grant loves chaos, and watching him go up against McClane is like watching fireworks—exciting and really fun to see.

Lock Up (1989)

John Amos as Captain Meissner in Lock Up
John Amos as Captain Meissner in Lock Up (Credits: TriStar Pictures)

In the 1989 movie Lock Up, John Amos played Captain Meissner, a strict prison officer who takes his job very seriously. He’s tough and works under Warden Drumgoole at Gateway Prison.

Meissner is an antagonist turned anti-hero who also shows some redeeming qualities. His conflicts with Frank Leone, played by Sylvester Stallone, create some intense moments in the film.

All these films are available to stream on Amazon Prime Video.

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