John Amos, a name synonymous with television history thanks to his unforgettable roles in classics like “Good Times” and “Roots,” passed away on August 21, 2024, at the age of 84. While his son announced his death later in October, the news prompted many to reflect on his impactful career and inquire about his financial standing. At the time of his death, John Amos’s net worth was estimated to be around $300,000. This figure reflects a long and varied career that spanned decades, encompassing television, film, and theater, albeit with some financial complexities along the way.
From Football Field to Hollywood Stage: The Genesis of a Career
Born on December 27, 1939, in Newark, New Jersey, John Amos’s initial aspirations weren’t in acting but on the football field. After graduating from East Orange High School and attending Long Beach City College, he earned a sociology degree from Colorado State University, showcasing his athletic prowess on the university’s football team and even becoming a Golden Glove boxing champion. His athletic journey continued briefly into professional football, with stints at the Denver Broncos and other leagues in the 1960s. However, fate had a different path in store for Amos.
Transitioning from sports, Amos ventured into acting, initially gaining recognition as Gordy Howard, the weatherman on “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” from 1970 to 1973. This role served as a stepping stone to his iconic portrayal of James Evans Sr. first on “Maude” and then leading into his own spin-off sitcom, “Good Times,” in 1974.
John Amos in a scene from Good Times
“Good Times,” “Roots,” and a Prolific Television Journey
“Good Times” became the defining role of Amos’s early career. As James Evans Sr., he embodied a strong, working-class African-American father striving to raise his family in a Chicago housing project. Starring alongside Esther Rolle, Jimmie Walker, and others, Amos aimed to portray a positive image amidst challenging circumstances. However, creative differences regarding the show’s direction led to his departure in 1976 after 61 episodes.
Immediately following “Good Times,” Amos secured another pivotal role in the groundbreaking 1977 miniseries “Roots.” His portrayal of the enslaved Kunta Kinte earned him an Emmy nomination and solidified his status as a serious dramatic actor. This role broadened his horizons and paved the way for diverse television roles in series like “The West Wing,” where he played Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, “The District,” and guest appearances in numerous popular shows such as “The Love Boat,” “The A-Team,” and “Murder, She Wrote.” His consistent presence on television screens throughout the decades cemented his legacy as a versatile and enduring actor.
John Amos in a distinguished pose
Film Roles and Theatrical Ventures
Beyond television, John Amos built a robust film career, starting with blaxploitation films like “Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song” in 1971 and Disney’s “The World’s Greatest Athlete” in 1973. He showcased his comedic side in “Coming to America” (1988) and action prowess in “Die Hard 2” (1990). His filmography includes a wide range of genres, from dramas like “Lock Up” (1989) with Sylvester Stallone to more recent appearances in Adam Sandler’s “Uncut Gems” (2019) and “Coming 2 America” (2021).
Amos also explored his passion for theater. He wrote and produced “Halley’s Comet,” a one-man play that he toured internationally, and performed in August Wilson’s “Gem of the Ocean” on Broadway, demonstrating his commitment to live performance.
Real Estate Matters and Financial Headwinds
Despite a successful acting career, John Amos faced some financial difficulties in later years. In 1990, he purchased a home in Lebanon, New Jersey, for $337,000. He attempted to sell the property in 2016, listing it for $439,000, but was unsuccessful. By 2018, the house went into foreclosure and was eventually sold in 2021 for $288,000, indicating a financial loss on the property.
Adding to these challenges, in June 2023, his daughter Shannon Amos initiated a GoFundMe campaign to raise $500,000, alleging elder and financial abuse. John Amos publicly refuted these claims, questioning the necessity of the fundraiser, creating a complex and public family matter in his later years.
Reflecting on a Legacy
John Amos’s $300,000 net worth at the time of his passing reflects a career marked by both significant achievements and financial ups and downs. While not a staggering fortune compared to some of his contemporaries, it represents the culmination of decades of work and his enduring presence in American entertainment. From his early days as a football player to becoming a beloved television icon, John Amos left an indelible mark on the industry. His roles in “Good Times” and “Roots” remain culturally significant, and his contributions to film and theater further solidify his legacy as a respected and versatile performer. His life story, encompassing both professional triumphs and personal challenges, provides a comprehensive picture of a man who dedicated his life to entertainment and resonated with audiences across generations.
