John Amos, patriarch on 'Good Times' and an Emmy nominee for the blockbuster 'Roots,' dies at 84

John Amos, Emmy-nominated actor, died at age 84 of natural causes. 

He was best known for his roles in Good Times and Roots.

Amos played James Evans Sr. on Good Times, a show about a Black family.

He was critical of the show's white writing staff, leading to his character being written off.

Amos starred as the adult Kunta Kinte in the groundbreaking miniseries Roots.

Despite Roots' success, Amos felt Black actors didn’t receive equal career opportunities.

His film credits include Coming to America and Die Hard 2.

Amos had a brief football career before transitioning to acting.

He is survived by his two children, Shannon and Kelly Christopher Amos.