John Amos is a name synonymous with powerful performances and a commanding presence in Hollywood. Best known for his roles in the sitcom Good Times and the groundbreaking miniseries Roots, Amos has carved out a distinguished career spanning decades. Born on December 27, 1939, understanding John Amos’ age today offers a fascinating perspective on his long and impactful journey in the entertainment industry. Currently in his 80s, Amos’s enduring career is a testament to his talent, resilience, and dedication to his craft.
Amos’s path to acting was far from traditional. The New Jersey native, son of a mechanic, initially explored diverse fields before finding his calling. He worked as an advertising copywriter, and even dedicated himself to social work at New York’s Vera Institute of Justice. His imposing physique and athletic prowess also led him to semi-professional football in both America and Canada. This varied background enriched his life experience, arguably contributing to the depth and authenticity he later brought to his roles.
His foray into entertainment began in the vibrant Greenwich Village comedy scene. As a stand-up comedian, he honed his performance skills and stage presence. This experience eventually led him to Los Angeles, where he landed a writing job for Leslie Uggams’ musical variety show in 1969. This marked a crucial turning point, transitioning him from behind-the-scenes work to the forefront of performance. In 1971, Amos made his professional stage debut in a Los Angeles production of “Norman, Is That You?”, garnering critical acclaim and a Los Angeles Drama Critics nomination for “Best Actor.” This early recognition fueled his ambition, leading him to establish his own theater company and tour with “Norman, Is That You?”.
The early 1970s saw Amos making strides in television. After a Broadway debut in “Tough To Get Help,” he secured a role in Oh Mary in 1970. Although his character, Gordy the weatherman, remained somewhat peripheral and he left after three seasons, this period paved the way for his breakthrough role as James Evans in Maude (1972). Initially a recurring character, James Evans, the hardworking, sporadically employed husband of Florida Evans (Esther Rolle), resonated strongly with audiences.
John Amos and Esther Rolle in Maude, showcasing the actors in their early roles.
The immense popularity of James and Florida Evans led to the spin-off series Good Times (1974). This sitcom, set in a Chicago housing project, aimed to depict the realities of African-American family life with humor and heart. Initially celebrated as a network first in terms of African-American creation, Good Times shifted direction, focusing increasingly on the comedic antics of J.J. Walker’s character. Amos, deeply committed to portraying strong family values and frustrated by the evolving scripts, clashed with producers. Ultimately, he was released from the show in 1976, with his character James Evans controversially written off as having died in a car accident.
Despite the Good Times departure, Amos’s career reached new heights with his Emmy-nominated portrayal of the adult Kunta Kinte in the landmark miniseries Roots: The Complete Miniseries (1977). This role became a defining moment, showcasing his dramatic depth and solidifying his place in television history. Roots was a cultural phenomenon, and for many, John Amos’ age at the time of this performance (around 37) underscores the maturity and gravitas he brought to such a significant role.
John Amos powerfully portraying Kunta Kinte in the iconic miniseries Roots.
Following Roots, Amos continued to navigate a Hollywood landscape that often presented limited and stereotypical roles for Black actors. He consciously sought to avoid typecasting, taking on diverse projects ranging from the mini-movie Willa (1979) to films like Beastmaster (1982) and Coming to America (1988). He also appeared in popular TV shows like The Love Boat, The A-Team, and Murder, She Wrote, demonstrating his versatility across genres.
Amos found consistent creative fulfillment on stage. His performance in “Split Second” earned him an NAACP Award for Best Actor in 1985. He garnered further acclaim for his stage work in productions like “The Boys Next Door,” “The Emperor Jones,” and “Master Harold…and The Boys.” He also ventured into directing, helming well-received productions of “Miss Reardon Drinks a Little” and “Twelve Angry Men.” His engagement with Shakespeare, playing Sir Toby Belch in “Twelfth Night,” and his powerful performance in August Wilson’s “Fences” highlighted his theatrical range. Internationally, he received accolades for “The Life and Death of a Buffalo Soldier” in England. In 1990, he debuted his one-man show “Halley’s Comet,” which he wrote and frequently directed, showcasing his multifaceted talents well into the 21st century.
In more recent years, even as John Amos’ age has advanced, he has remained active in television, securing recurring roles in The West Wing, The District, and Men in Trees. His continued presence on screen and stage is a testament to his enduring passion and talent. John Amos’s children, K.C. Amos and Shannon Amos, have followed in his artistic footsteps as directors, writers, and producers, extending the family’s creative legacy.
Reflecting on John Amos’ age and career, it’s clear that he has built a remarkable and impactful body of work. From his early struggles against typecasting to his triumphs in iconic roles like Kunta Kinte, Amos has consistently demonstrated his talent, resilience, and commitment to his craft. His journey serves as an inspiration, proving that talent and dedication can lead to a long and fulfilling career, regardless of industry challenges.
