Photo Credit:Craig Barritt/Getty Images
On October 1, 2024, conflicting narratives emerged about the passing of legendary actor John Amos, best known for his roles in "Roots" and "Good Times." His son, Kelly Christopher "K.C." Amos, announced that the actor had died of natural causes on August 21 in Los Angeles at age 84. However, the announcement took an unexpected turn when Amos' daughter Shannon revealed she had learned of her father's death through media reports, a full 45 days after his passing. “Our family has received the heartbreaking news that my Dad, John Allen Amos, Jr., transitioned on August 21st. We are devastated and left with many questions about how this happened 45 days ago, learning about it through the media like so many of you.” Shannon Amos, 58, shared on Instagram.
This revelation comes against a backdrop of previous family tensions. In December 2023, during what would be one of his final interviews with People magazine, John Amos addressed the strained relationship with his daughter, whom he had previously accused of elder abuse. "That is my daughter, my first child. I love her," Amos stated, adding, "Everything heals in time, and the love is still there."
Industry insiders note that Amos' career spanned decades, with his son's statement emphasizing his recent work. "He lived a good life," K.C. Amos said, highlighting his father's participation in "Suits LA" and a documentary titled "America's Dad." The actor's impact on television history remains undisputed, with K.C. noting, "Many fans consider him their TV father."
Shannon Amos' post concluded with a plea for privacy and understanding: "This should be a time of honoring and celebrating his life, yet we are struggling to navigate the wave of emotions and uncertainties surrounding his passing."
SAG-AFTRA records indicate that John Amos' career included over 100 screen credits, with his role as Kunta Kinte in "Roots" earning him an Emmy nomination in 1977. Despite the current controversy, his legacy as a groundbreaking African American actor remains secure in television history.
This revelation comes against a backdrop of previous family tensions. In December 2023, during what would be one of his final interviews with People magazine, John Amos addressed the strained relationship with his daughter, whom he had previously accused of elder abuse. "That is my daughter, my first child. I love her," Amos stated, adding, "Everything heals in time, and the love is still there."
Industry insiders note that Amos' career spanned decades, with his son's statement emphasizing his recent work. "He lived a good life," K.C. Amos said, highlighting his father's participation in "Suits LA" and a documentary titled "America's Dad." The actor's impact on television history remains undisputed, with K.C. noting, "Many fans consider him their TV father."
Shannon Amos' post concluded with a plea for privacy and understanding: "This should be a time of honoring and celebrating his life, yet we are struggling to navigate the wave of emotions and uncertainties surrounding his passing."
SAG-AFTRA records indicate that John Amos' career included over 100 screen credits, with his role as Kunta Kinte in "Roots" earning him an Emmy nomination in 1977. Despite the current controversy, his legacy as a groundbreaking African American actor remains secure in television history.
