Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2024

Source: Shareif Ziyadat / Getty

UPDATED: 2:00 p.m. ET., October 1st, 2024

As we’ve come to understand year after year, day after day even, death is unfortunately an inevitable part of life. Still, as much of a fact as that may be, the blow of experiencing loss never gets any easier, nor does reporting on the subject in Black culture.

John Amos, the versatile actor known for his memorable roles in television and film, passed away on August 21 in Los Angeles due to natural causes. His son, K.C. Amos, confirmed the news.

“It is with heartfelt sadness that I share with you that my father has transitioned,” he said in a statement. “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.”  – K.C. Amos

John Amos first captured the hearts of TV viewers as Gordy the weatherman on The Mary Tyler Moore Show. However, it was his role as James Evans Sr., the strong and principled father on Good Times, that solidified his status as a household name. Amos’s portrayal of James Evans Sr. was a pillar of strength and morality, offering a nuanced representation of Black fatherhood during a critical time in television history.

Amos further demonstrated his acting prowess with his Emmy-nominated performance as Toby, the older version of Kunta Kinte, in the acclaimed 1977 ABC miniseries Roots. This role not only showcased his incredible talent but also brought to light the harrowing experiences of slavery, leaving an indelible impact on viewers and contributing to important conversations about race and history.

RELATED STORY:

Did You Know There Was A Coming To America TV Show? [Watch]

Good Times; Actor Johnny Brown Dies At 84

John Amos’s career wasn’t confined to the small screen. He made a significant mark in cinema, starting with his role in Melvin Van Peebles’ blaxploitation classic Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song (1971). He continued to take on diverse roles, including that of Cleo McDowell, the manager of a McDonald’s-like restaurant, in the beloved comedy Coming to America (1988). In this film, Amos charmed audiences with his comedic timing and warm presence, playing opposite Eddie Murphy and Arsenio Hall.

John Amos’s contributions to television and film extend beyond his roles. He broke barriers and set new standards for Black actors in Hollywood

Learn more below about who in our culture has passed away so far this year in 2024 Below

The article ‘Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2024‘ was created with the help of Jasper.AI

The post Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2024 appeared first on Black America Web.