Coming To America Star John Amos Dead At 84

Actor John Amos has passed away.

The Good Times star, who was 84, died of natural causes in Los Angeles on August 21, his representative confirmed to Variety on Tuesday. His son Kelly Christopher Amos opened up about the death in a statement, sharing:

“It is with heartfelt sadness that I share with you that my father has transitioned. He was a man with the kindest heart and a heart of gold… and he was loved the world over. Many fans consider him their TV father. He lived a good life. His legacy will live on in his outstanding works in television and film as an actor. My father loved working as an actor throughout his entire life…. most recently in ‘Suits LA’ playing himself and our documentary about his life journey as an actor, ‘America’s Dad.’ He was my dad, my best friend, and my hero. Thank you for your prayers and support at this time.”

Julia Buchwald, president of the Buchwald agency, also mourned his loss, expressing:

“We are so proud to have represented John. He was not only a remarkable talent but also a deeply kind and generous soul. His impact on the industry and those who knew him will never be forgotten.”

John was famous for playing weatherman Gordon “Gordy” Howard on The Mary Tyler Moore Show in the ’70s, leading to a fantastic TV career as he played such diverse roles as patriarch James Evans Sr. on Good Times (which was a spin-off of Maude and All in the Family), the adult version of Kunta Kinte in the miniseries Roots, plus big parts in The West Wing, Two and a Half Men, The Ranch, Me Time, and much more.

He was also a wonderful film actor in movies like Die Hard 2 and Lock Up. But he may best be known now for the perennially popular Coming to America, in which he’s absolutely hilarious playing a dad with a knockoff McDonald’s restaurant.

John also took to the stage in Broadway‘s Gem of the Ocean and Tough to Get Help. Before acting, he played college football at Colorado State University and signed short-lived free agent contracts with the Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs. An impressive career on all fronts.

Along with his son, he also leaves behind his daughter Shannon. He will be deeply missed. R.I.P.

[Image via Paramount Pictures/Walt Disney Pictures/YouTube]