John Amos is a respected American actor known for his commanding presence, powerful performances, and contributions to some of the most important television and film projects of the last five decades. From his breakthrough role as James Evans Sr. on Good Times to his memorable performance in Roots and his later work in both drama and comedy, Amos has built a lasting legacy as one of the most impactful Black actors in American entertainment history. Given his enduring fame and influence, many fans still ask: Is John Amos still alive?
This article delivers a clear answer to that question and provides a comprehensive look at his current health, career highlights, personal life, and lasting legacy in Hollywood and beyond.
Is John Amos Still Alive in 2025?
Yes, John Amos is still alive as of 2025.
At 84 years old, the veteran actor remains a prominent figure in the entertainment community. Though he has slowed down his acting workload in recent years, Amos continues to make occasional appearances and remains active in causes related to education, cultural preservation, and racial equality.
Early Life and Athletic Beginnings
John Allen Amos Jr. was born on December 27, 1939, in Newark, New Jersey. Before he pursued acting, Amos was a promising athlete. He attended Colorado State University, where he earned a degree in sociology and became a standout football player.
Athletic Career:
- Played professional football briefly, including time with the Denver Broncos in the American Football League
- A hamstring injury curtailed his sports career, leading him to pursue the performing arts
His athletic discipline and commanding presence would later influence the physicality and intensity of his acting performances.
Breakthrough Role on Good Times
John Amos gained widespread recognition in the 1970s for his role as James Evans Sr., the hardworking father on the hit CBS sitcom Good Times.
Significance of the Role:
- Represented one of the first depictions of a strong Black father figure on American television
- Showed the struggles and dignity of a working-class African American family in Chicago
- Paired with Esther Rolle, whose character Florida Evans became equally iconic
Amos’s performance earned critical acclaim, but he was written out of the show in its fourth season due to creative differences. He had advocated for more authentic, issue-driven storytelling, leading to tension with the producers.
Emmy-Nominated Role in Roots
In 1977, Amos took on the role of older Kunta Kinte in the groundbreaking miniseries Roots, based on Alex Haley’s novel.
Impact of Roots:
- Reached over 100 million viewers
- Helped spark national conversations about slavery and African American history
- Earned Amos an Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama or Comedy Series
The role remains one of the most culturally significant performances in television history and cemented Amos’s reputation as a serious dramatic actor.
Film and Television Career Highlights
Over the years, John Amos has appeared in numerous films and TV series, often portraying characters with strength, dignity, and integrity.
Notable Film Roles:
- Coming to America (1988) and Coming 2 America (2021) – Played Cleo McDowell, the quirky fast-food mogul
- Die Hard 2 (1990) – Portrayed a military officer with a dark twist
- The Beastmaster (1982) – Action-fantasy role that showcased his physicality
- Lock Up (1989) – With Sylvester Stallone
Television Highlights:
- Recurring roles on The West Wing, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Touched by an Angel, and All About the Andersons
- Guest appearances in dozens of series spanning genres from crime dramas to comedies
His adaptability and presence have made him a trusted and familiar face across generations of television viewers.
Health and Personal Challenges
In June 2023, reports surfaced suggesting that John Amos was the victim of elder abuse, allegedly involving financial mismanagement. His daughter Shannon Amos publicly raised concerns, which led to confusion and media speculation.
Clarifications and Updates:
- Amos denied some of the allegations made on his behalf
- Law enforcement investigated the claims, and legal proceedings reportedly followed
- As of 2025, he is alive, safe, and reportedly living with family support while maintaining his independence
Amos has not publicly detailed his full health condition, but at 84, he is considered to be in reasonably good health and continues to engage with fans and public events when able.
Personal Life and Family
John Amos has been married twice and is the father of Shannon Amos, a producer and founder of Afterglow Multimedia, and K.C. Amos, a director and writer.
Key Facts:
- Advocates for family values, education, and youth empowerment
- Passionate about African American heritage and storytelling
- Has spoken openly about the importance of family structure and strong role models in Black communities
He also maintains an active connection with fans through appearances at conventions, interviews, and online platforms.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout his career, Amos has received numerous honors for both his artistic work and community contributions.
Major Honors:
- Emmy Award nomination for Roots
- NAACP Image Awards
- TV Land Awards for Good Times and Roots
- Honored by the National Black Theatre Festival
- Received Lifetime Achievement recognition from various civil rights and media organizations
His body of work continues to be studied in media and cultural studies as a key example of African American representation on screen.
Advocacy and Legacy
Beyond acting, John Amos has used his platform to support educational causes, civil rights, and youth mentorship.
Advocacy Focus:
- Promotes literacy and education among African American youth
- Supports the preservation of African American history and heritage
- Advocates for fair representation in film and television
His legacy is rooted not only in the characters he played, but also in his real-life efforts to uplift underrepresented voices in the arts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is John Amos still alive in 2025?
Yes. John Amos is alive at 84 years old and continues to participate in public and creative activities.
What is John Amos best known for?
He is best known for his roles as James Evans Sr. on Good Times and older Kunta Kinte in the miniseries Roots.
Did John Amos win any major awards?
He was nominated for an Emmy Award for Roots and has received multiple NAACP Image Awards and lifetime achievement recognitions.
Is John Amos still acting?
While largely retired from regular acting roles, Amos continues to make occasional appearances in film, television, and public events.
What happened with the elder abuse claims?
In 2023, his daughter raised concerns about alleged elder abuse. Amos later clarified that the situation was complex, and legal authorities became involved to ensure his well-being.
Is John Amos in good health?
As of 2025, he is reported to be in stable health, living with support and enjoying a quieter lifestyle while remaining active in legacy-building efforts.
Conclusion
So, is John Amos still alive? Yes—and his impact continues to resonate. At 84, he stands as a symbol of strength, integrity, and excellence in American acting. His roles in Good Times, Roots, and numerous other projects helped shape television and film’s portrayal of Black families, history, and identity.
In 2025, John Amos is more than a respected actor—he is a cultural touchstone whose contributions continue to inspire artists, educators, and audiences worldwide. With a legacy built on talent, dignity, and advocacy, his story is a testament to resilience, purpose, and enduring influence.