John Amos: 20 Must-Know Facts About the Emmy-Nominated Actor

John Amos: 20 Must-Know Facts About the Emmy-Nominated Actor

John Amos is an American actor. He is known for his iconic roles in TV shows like Good Times, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, and Roots.  He was born in 1939 in New Jersey. He played football at Colorado State. His breakout role was the father character James Evans Sr. in Good Times in the 1970s. He has had an extensive career spanning over 5 decades.

I would say the actor is hardworking and he was lucky to win awards like the NAACP Image Award. John is in his 80s but continues to take on acting roles. I would recommend if you haven’t watched any of his films to do so since he is perfect and entertaining in what he does. He has been active in social causes too. Possesses a powerful screen presence thanks to his deep voice and tall stature. In this article, I have discussed 20 must-know facts about the actor.

1. His Full Name is John Allen Amos Jr

United States Coast Guard, PA1 Telfair H. Brown, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

John Amos is an American actor and former football player, born on December 27, 1939, in Newark, New Jersey. His full name is John Allen Amos Jr. The inclusion of “Jr.” in his full name indicates that he is the son of a man named John Allen Amos, sharing the same name as his father but distinguished by the generational suffix.

2. He was Born on December 27, 1939, in Newark, New Jersey

John Amos was born on December 27, 1939, in Newark, New Jersey. With a career spanning over five decades, Amos has brought his powerful presence and voice to theater, television, and film. Though perhaps best known for his Emmy-nominated role as James Evans Sr. on the sitcom Good Times.

His birthplace no doubt played a formative role for the man who would grow to take on roles from New Jersey to Colorado to Hollywood and beyond, earning esteem as an actor celebrated for talent, activism, and integrity throughout his life and impressive career.

3. He Attended Colorado State University on a Football Scholarship

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John Amos attended Colorado State University on a football scholarship. After graduating from high school in New Jersey in 1958, Amos was recruited to play football for Colorado State University. He proved to be a skilled and determined player – qualities that surely aided him later as an actor. Amos played on the Colorado State Rams football team as a tight end and receiver from 1958 to 1960.

He had enrolled on a full football scholarship that covered his academic tuition. An unfortunate injury cut his budding football career short before he could turn professional. However, this redirection opened the door for Amos to move to New York soon after and start establishing himself as a talented actor on the stage and screen. So while his time playing college football was brief, it brought Amos to Colorado where he could eventually discover his true lifelong passion for acting.

4. He was Signed as a Free Agent to Play for the Denver Broncos in 1964

After John Amos’ football career at Colorado State University was cut short by injury in the early 1960s, he managed to get a second chance at his sports dreams in 1964 when he was signed as a free agent with his home state’s football team, the Denver Broncos. Though Amos’ time playing professionally with the Broncos organization would last only a single season, this opportunity speaks to Amos’ determination and athletic capabilities that first took him to CSU on a scholarship.

Despite not having a long career on the football field, the skills and work ethic Amos cultivated during this period prepared him well for the rigor and competitiveness of the entertainment industry. Signing with the Broncos gave closure to Amos’ football aspirations while clearing the path for him to pivot fully towards acting – ultimately where he would make his greatest impact through roles steeped in dignity, leadership, and courage in the face of prejudice.

5. His Football Career was Cut Short by an Injury

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John Amos had aspired to build a professional football career after playing at Colorado State University on an athletic scholarship. However, his hopes were abruptly cut short by a sports injury he suffered during his college years. This detrimental setback forced Amos to reconsider his career path earlier than planned. Ultimately it opened another door, steering him towards acting. Though the sudden end to his football trajectory was no doubt difficult, Amos took it in determined stride.

Channeling his strength of character, he relocated to start over in New York City, driven to now make his mark as a performer. Faced with this major crossroads moment, Amos found within himself the resilience to pivot – later emerging as an Emmy-nominated actor celebrated for his roles in breaking stereotypical portrayal of African Americans.

6. John Grew up in East Orange, New Jersey

John Amos spent his childhood in East Orange, New Jersey. Born on December 27, 1939, he grew up in this vibrant community. East Orange is a city known for its diverse neighborhoods and cultural richness. In his early years, before becoming a famous actor, John experienced life in this town.

It was here that he developed an interest in the arts, later leading to a successful career in acting. His roots in East Orange played a role in shaping the person he became, influencing his values and providing a foundation for his journey into the world of entertainment.

7. He Received an Emmy Nomination for his role as James Evans Sr on Good Times in 1976

U.S. National Archives, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

In 1976, actor John Amos was honored with a nomination for an Emmy Award. The Emmy Awards recognize excellent work in television. Amos was nominated for Best Lead Actor in a Comedy Series for playing the character James Evans Sr. on the TV show Good Times.

He did not win the Emmy that year, but it was still a big honor just to be nominated. His role as the hardworking father and husband James Evans Sr. on the comedy show Good Times was very popular and well-liked hence earning him an Emmy Award for his great acting on the show.

8. He has Played Important Roles in Classic Films like Coming to America and Die Hard 2

In addition to his television work, John Amos has also played key roles in several well-known movies over his long acting career. For example, he had a memorable role in the 1988 comedy Coming to America. He played Cleo McDowell, the father of Eddie Murphy’s Prince Akeem character. His funny performance as the owner of a fast-food restaurant showed his talent for comedy.

Another major film for Amos was 1990’s Die Hard 2, Amos portrayed a tough yet sympathetic airport policeman trying to help Bruce Willis’ hero character. Through films like Coming to America and Die Hard 2, Amos has left his mark on several beloved, classic movies.

9. Amos Gained Widespread Recognition for his Role as James Evans Sr. in the Groundbreaking TV series “Good Times”

United States Coast Guard, PA1 Telfair H. Brown, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

John Amos became well-known for portraying James Evans Sr. in the TV series “Good Times.” This groundbreaking show, airing from 1974 to 1976, focused on an African American family facing real-life challenges. Amos’s role as the strong and caring father resonated with audiences, making him a standout character.

His performance contributed to the show’s success and cultural impact. Despite leaving the series due to creative differences, Amos’s portrayal of James Evans Sr. remains a memorable part of television history.

10. Before Amos Became an Actor, he was a Player for the American Football League’s Denver Broncos

Before becoming an acclaimed film and television actor, John Amos had a previous athletic career in professional football. After attending Colorado State University on a football scholarship, where he stood out as a talented player, Amos was signed by the Denver Broncos of the American Football League in the early 1960s.

He played for the Broncos for a few seasons as a tight end and wide receiver before ultimately turning his full attention to acting. Though his football career was rather short, it’s an interesting footnote in his varied background that laid the foundation for the diverse entertainment roles he took on later.

11. He Founded the AMOS Foundation to Give Coaching and Mentorship to Young Actors

John Amos started the AMOS Foundation to teach and guide young performers. He coaches and advises to help the next generation of diverse actors build long careers. Amos faced tough obstacles when he was a young black actor starting.

So, his foundation talks to and finds work opportunities for minority youth who want to act. He wants to pass on help like he wishes he had. The AMOS Foundation shows how veterans in the entertainment world can lift new talents.

12. John Inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame

U.S. National Archives, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

John Amos was inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame in 2020. New Jersey Hall of Fame is a U.S. organization that honors people from the United States of New Jersey who have played a part positively in society and the world beyond.

Hall of Fame also known as Wall of Fame or Walk of Fame is a non-profit organization. Its purpose is to select individuals and recognize their fame or excellence in their different fields.

13. Amos Enjoys Traveling to Underdeveloped Countries to Provide Aid through Various Charity Organizations

John Amos likes to travel to poor countries to help people in need. He works with different charities that provide money, food, medicine, and more to places with lots of struggling families. For example, in parts of Africa and Asia where people lack clean water, healthy food, good medical care, and enough jobs to survive day-to-day. By partnering with aid groups around the globe, Amos uses his name and connections to assist those without essential resources.

He also volunteers hands-on in communities abroad. Whether handing out supplies or listening to local people’s stories, Amos makes an effort to be actively involved. His first-hand view of hardship inspires him to rally for more assistance. By selflessly giving his time and care, Amos hopes to make a positive difference for underserved nations facing major challenges.

14. He Has 2 Children

Photo by Pixabay: https://www.pexels.com/photo/grayscale-photography-of-three-boys-facing-towards-fence-277477/

John Amos, the esteemed actor known for his roles in shows like “Good Times” and movies such as “Coming to America,” has two children. His son, K.C. Amos, and daughter Shannon Amos from his first marriage.

His daughter Shannon was exposed to Hollywood at a young age since he as his father is an actor. The son K.C. Amos followed his father’s footsteps as well and he is known for films like Tamales and Gumbo (2015), Hauntsville (2016), and Syphon Gun (1995).

15. Amos has Appeared in Over 100 Film and TV Productions

Over his impressive career spanning more than 50 years, prolific actor John Amos has appeared in over 100 movies, television shows, and theater productions. He has brought his powerful acting talents to a diverse range of roles and genres. From comedy shows to dramas to Hollywood blockbusters, Amos has an extensive list of credits to his name. He has worked steadily since getting his big break in the 1970s.

With his commanding presence and emotional range, Amos has left a memorable mark on many projects across mediums. And even in his later years, he continues taking on ambitious acting work regularly. He has shown exceptional dedication over the decades to remain active in entertainment – whether on screens or on stages. His persistence has allowed John Amos the opportunity to showcase his skills in well over 100 diverse productions and counting.

16. John Received an Emmy Nomination for his Work on the Miniseries “Roots”

John Amos gave a very emotional and powerful performance in the popular 1977 mini-series “Roots.” This was based on the book Roots by Alex Haley about Haley’s African family history and ancestors. In Roots, Amos played the older Kunta Kinte, who is the main character. Kunta Kinte is captured in Africa as a young man and then enslaved in America.

Amos acted very well, showing all the pain and struggle Kunta Kinte went through as an older enslaved man trying to hold on to his dignity and his African heritage. This excellent acting work earned John Amos an Emmy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. This nomination recognized how good Amos was in showing the suffering but also the strength of his character Kunta Kinte.

18. His First Regular TV Role was Playing Gordy Howard on The Mary Tyler Moore 

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John Amos got his big break on television with his first regular acting job playing Gordy Howard on The Mary Tyler Moore Show from (1970-1977). His role in Mary Tyler Moore helped establish John Amos’s comedic talent and screen presence early on. Fans got to know Amos for over 3 seasons thanks to his spot as a featured cast member throughout the show’s acclaimed run.

Though merely Amos’s TV debut, The Mary Tyler Moore Show proved the launchpad that would set him on a path where he could fully show the depth and charisma that became his signature to his over 50-year career that followed breaking into Hollywood.

19. In his Younger Years he was an Avid Horse Rider and Trained with the Long Riders Mounted Drill Team

In John Amos’s early days, he had a strong passion for horseback riding. As a young man, Amos actively honed his equestrian skills and rode frequently. He trained with an elite group known as the Long Riders Mounted Drill Team that performed daring tricks and formations on horseback. Undertaking the Long Riders’ intensive regimen required real dedication and fearlessness from Amos.

 While acting became Amos’s ultimate career path, his lifelong love for horses began with riding as a youth. That early training helped cement in him the grit and work ethic that later enabled him to succeed on the competitive path of show business. Those formative experiences of riding and bonding with horses stayed close to Amos’s heart.

20. Amos has Appeared on Broadway

Apart from Amos many popular television and movie roles, John Amos has also acted on the Broadway stage. In 1988, he starred in a Broadway production called Checkmates. This play tells the story of a rivalry between two powerful African kingdoms long ago. Amos received great reviews for his lead performance as the king who tries to protect his realm.

Getting to act on the prestigious Broadway stage, even just once, is a career highlight for many performers. So John Amos branching out to theater acting on Broadway shows his versatility as a renowned actor across different entertainment mediums over his long career.