Martin Lawrence, Garcelle Beauvais and More Stars React to John Amos' Death: 'A True Legend' and 'Role Model'

Mar. 15, 2025

John Amos at “Showing Roots” New York Screening SVA Theatre on May 17, 2016 in New York City.Photo:Shareif Ziyadat/WireImage

Shareif Ziyadat/WireImage

Tributes are pouring in forJohn Amosfollowing the news of his death.

The actor — who was known for a variety of legendary roles inGood Times,Coming to AmericaandRoots —died of natural causes on Aug. 21 in Los Angeles, his sonKelly Christopher “K.C.” Amosconfirmed in a statement to PEOPLE. He was 84.

“My father loved working as an actor throughout his entire life,” he continued. “Most recently inSuits LAplaying himself and our documentary about his life journey as an actor,America’s Dad. He was my dad, my best friend, and my hero.”

In a statement, hisGood TimescostarJimmie Walkertold PEOPLE, “John was a great actor and my condolences go out to his entire family, friends and his many, many fans.”

Martin Lawrencereacted to the news in aposton X (formerly Twitter), writing, “This one hits different. My condolences go out to the family of a true legend, John Amos 🙏🏽.”

Tibrina Hobson/WireImage

BernNadatte Stanis, who played Amos' daughter Thelma on Good Times, shared avideoon her Instagram, as she reacted to the news.

Richard Schiff, who worked with Amos onThe West Wing, called him “a damn fine actor” in a statement to PEOPLE. “John was elite among good people. He emitted constant gratitude and grace,” Schiff said. “Was a pleasure and an honor to work with him.”

Madge Sinclair and John Amos in ‘Roots’ 1977.ABC Photo Archives/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty

ABC Photo Archives/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty

“It’s hard to believe that the great, beautiful actor John Amos is gone. The character he embodied on The West Wing was the epitome of grace, power, and leadership. John possessed all these qualities in abundance. His Admiral Fitzwallace onThe West Wingwas my character’s lifelong mentor, and sitting alongside him in the Burbank version of the Situation Room were some of my most cherished memories from the whole experience. Thank you, John. It’s been an honor to serve with you.”

Ben Vereen, who worked onRootsafter Amos' exit, told PEOPLE after learning of his death, “He was tenacious. He was dedicated, and he made a path for others to follow. I’m glad I had the opportunity to have him in my life… We were privileged and honored that he came this way.”

“John would want to be remembered mostly for his work and his humanitarian [work]. The love of his craft and dedicated acting. A dedicated person. John gave it his all,” Vereen, 77, added.

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Loni Lovepaid tribute to Amos, too, who she worked with on the 2015 filmBad Asses on the Bayou.

Amos’Coming to AmericacostarGarcelle Beauvaisshared a selfie of the pair on her Instagram Stories, as she wrote, “I will miss you, John.” She added a broken heart emoji and prayer hand emoji alongside her tribute.

AddedDie Hard 2costar Reginald VelJohnson, ““John Amos was a superior actor, a gentleman, and a great inspiration to me. My sincere condolences to his family. He will be missed.”

source: people.com