Here's Why John Amos was Fired from TV's Good Times

[@nortondumont9711]

I'm going to repeat a statement I made in another comments section - Amos's James was the strongest father figure on TV at the time and that's what I liked best about "Good Times" even back then.

[@jdsundstrom]

It was a great role...and it was an absolute shame that they chose to kill off the character. I'm not pointing fingers at anyone regarding who was to blame. I'm just saying that it was a shame.

[@GeraBrown]

@Albert Demarco Albert, I hear you 100%. It's this country's shame that policies have been enacted to destroy certain families and gentrify their neighborhoods. So thank you for your truth. We all need to hear it til it hurts!

[@alexanderpatrick4866]

I would say Michael Landon as Mr. Ingalls was the strongest father figure on television at that time as well as Ralph Waite on The Waltons. They always lectured the kids thoughtfully as opposed to yelling at them. Definitely the character of a strong father.

[@vxCrusaderxv]

@@alexanderpatrick4866 completely agree

[@trueknowledgeispower]

I couldn't like your comment fast enough. James was THE role model for any race of child back then and even today. Not Heathcliff Huxtable, not Philip Banks, either. The only one who came in a distant second was John Goodman's 'Dan Connor' from 'Roseanne"

[@MoonLoner07305]

When they killed Amos character, they killed the show.

[@josephclegg3562]

And when Esther left, the show became a complete flop.

[@thomasjust2663]

What were they supposed to do, just take Amos insults and treats? any normal person would have fired his ass

[@angeljohnson6665]

I respect your opinions but the only reason good times was a hit was because of jimmue walker and bernadette the back and forth between them is what made the show worth watching!!!

[@mariogullette4795]

@@angeljohnson6665 THE RATINGS DROPED AFTER THEY KILLED THE JOHN AMOS FATHER CHARACTER OFF!

[@wudaddy]

Yes. This was stated almost exactly in the E! True Hollywood Story on Good Times.

[@jadedavis822]

I hated James being killed off then the mom left ...it was really bad

[@mr.wizard2974]

You gotta be careful how you act and what you say...when you're making big money

[@mehmeh7567]

The show got corny when he died and then when Florida went away to work and it was just J.J, Thelma & micheal I couldn’t watch it anymore bc Willona was more of the mother and then when penny came in with the endless abuse I was like uh-uh can’t watch nomore” However the funniest episode was when Thelma husband went crazy on J.J friend sweet daddy bc he was tryna hustle J.J 😂😂😂 you gotta watch that episode” They actually have the Goodtimes collection pack where I am now so you know I watched it over & over again when I was on punishment 😂

[@florencemitchell2638]

It was not ideal; however, parents mayo die in real life

[@herchels9796]

@@mr.wizard2974 He wasn't disrespectful. He didn't like how JJ was being portrayed as a stereotypical black man when he had two other kids that was aspiring to be a doctor (thelma) and Michael (Supreme court justice) and they didn't get any notice.

[@playkma]

Can’t forget him as Cleo McDowell on the classic “Coming to America”

[@jdsundstrom]

Yep. He was great in that movie!

[@sspotter1978]

They have the Big Mac, we have the Big Mick.

[@balston113]

And we'll see him again in that character this year in the Coming to America reboot.

[@deearthur4513]

Now wait a minute this is America Jack

[@mercoid]

“The MacDonald’s folks and me have a little.......”misunderstanding”.

[@DeeMonkey999]

The show was better with John Amos in it.

[@steevrawjers]

DeeMonkey999 yes Even as a 9 year old I knew that

[@johnhickey8429]

YES!!!

[@edwardhine9224]

I didn't care for Good Times after John Amos was fired.

[@jdsundstrom]

I was done as well.

[@charlessteenburgen]

Me either

[@harveyabel1354]

I agreed with him on the shucking and jiving - it was rot.

[@TimCarter]

When Willona and Booger become main characters, you know you should have already cancelled the show.

[@southpaw2k1]

@@TimCarter Yeah, especially when Florida left and "remarried" to Mr. Dixon, so he can survive cancer. Then Florida came just in time to see Thelma get married. I guess it's safe to say that Mr. Dixon eventually died from cancer.

[@josephclegg3562]

When they killed off James, Good Times became a complete joke, and when Florida left, Good Times was definitely no more. When they tried to redeem the show by bringing Florida back, it was too late, the fire was gone. Good Times had it's time and it was time for it to retire.

[@jyesucevitz]

i agree with Amos. as a kid we loved it. didnt fully understand it. as an adult i do see how much of Walker's character was shukin' and jivin'.

[@jyesucevitz]

@Gjhammer Gjhammer I'm 53 as well and I saw JJ as basically a live action cartoon character. A preteen back then didn't understand the subtly of the racism back then. Also, I'm not one of those people that are into The whole "dog whistle" thing where certain words and phrases are code for the "n" word. (I can't believe as a grown man I have to use the term n word. Unreal.) just looking back I see now what Mr Amos saw then.

[@marywatkins9438]

John Amos was fired for having integrity. Period.

[@kendramanuel9986]

Facts

[@bethk3773]

I would believe that.

[@johnhickey8429]

Mary Watkins True That!!!

[@blueskye6372]

True 💯

[@garycollins7750]

No, he was actually fired for threatening the writers in multiple occasions.

[@marylee8534]

When John Amos was fired, I stopped watching Good Times.

[@josephclegg3562]

Producers thought that by bringing Janet Jackson on the show would help the show. Dont get me wrong. Who wouldn't want to see a little miss Jackson on a top show, but by the time she came on, the show was a complete flop?

[@daffyduckfan4478]

Mary Lee Well you missed out because it was still good

[@mariogullette4795]

@@daffyduckfan4478 I STARTED WATCHING WHAT'S HAPPENING (1976-1979) WHEN THEY KILLED OFF THE THE FATHER CHARACTER FROM GOOD TIMES, I ACTUALLY DIDN'T MISS OUT BECAUSE, I TUNED IN TO TAKE A BRIEF LOOK AT GOOD TIMES AFTER JAMES SR. WAS GONE & THE SHOW WAS QUITE DULL & EMPTY TO ME!

[@joannaedwards4504]

Mary when they had that 🎊 party and got that 📝 note telling Florida and the family that James got killed that part of the show was that the last time I will be watching good Times

[@justmeandthethree]

I stopped watching after Sweet Daddy had that outpatient surgery for chronic flatulence.

[@jackiethompson7446]

i cried when james died...i was a little boy and he was like my dad...in that my dad was tough but loving and hard working

[@taotaostrong]

Thanks for this! John Amos is one of my favorite classically trained actors. Happy 2020! ❤️

[@PaulSharpequalrights]

AMEN.

[@jdsundstrom]

I'm glad you enjoyed the video, TAO TAO!

[@vanmoody]

He was great as adult Kunta Kintay on Roots.

[@360whiplash]

The show really went downhill when the strong male character was killed off.

[@midnightmodder]

Hollywierd can't have that strong male character in their line up!

[@keithforsay4204]

It Proves That Norman Lear Isn't This Fantastic-Vison As TV-Critics Are Always Gushing About It Simply Isn't True.

[@EJ-he3pm]

To me James Evans(Amos)was the show!!!! #FACTS

[@Joe-pb3bm]

Early WOKEism. Never mind. Still, you never hear *"Toxic Masculinity" used vs the Black guy.

[@denofearthundertheeverlast5138]

I know I wasn't the only white boy that had a crush on BernNadette Stanis, she is gorgeous.

[@jdsundstrom]

You're right, Den. I'm quite sure that you weren't. :)

[@dirtyjew1974]

I did as well lol

[@kaedre1211]

I met her when she wrote her book & was on a book tour. She's even more beautiful in person & she had to be 45 years old or older. Just beautiful . . .

Oh Yes. She was HOTTTT!!

[@danmseattle975]

I had a MAJOR crush on her!

[@Rockzilla404]

I never cared for Jimmy Walker's role in Good Times but there were some great moments in the series. John Amos is an awesome actor and my hat's off to him for taking a stand. Jimmy Walker's knowledge of professional baseball is absolutely amazing. He should be a network analyst.

[@jdsundstrom]

Jimmie Walker is an absolute joy to listen to. He really has the gift of gab. If you haven't already done so, you should check out some of his interviews here on KZbin. They are tons of fun!

[@nickhill8612]

Same I always thought he was very annoying.

[@Neisy77]

The moment when Florida read the telegram stating that James passed away still takes my breath away and breaks my heart. So much excitement and heart break in a split second 😢. Loved that show.

[@yell0wberry]

Neisy77 The show also helped to give Esther Rolle one of the most popular sound bites in TV sitcom history

[@josephclegg3562]

Then they tried to replace James with Carl. He added nothing to the show.

[@harrynicholes3166]

@@josephclegg3562 Carl was Corny.

[@davidcabral3805]

CplHicksjr yes!! awesome!! just awesome!!

[@MarkHayes-ue7hs]

I saw that episode the first night it aired. I was young and couldn't understand what I was seeing. It made no sense but it will never be forgotten.

[@dwaynecollins4974]

I'm with you Dave, I stopped watching that show after they killed off Amos character. It was the first time I saw a TV dad that was like a real father!

[@sashadrews754]

Dwayne Collins : Exactly !

[@jackbits6397]

It was but what a performance when the Florida character loses it at the end of the episode with the "Damn! Damn! Damn!" it was like she really felt the grief. I don't remember too many specific episodes but as a kid I remember that and really feeling the sadness of it!

[@dawnuwangue6061]

I think Norman Lear underestimated the audience's affection for the character James and the actor John Amos. It was devastating to lose such a strong character. The show really went downhill after that. Lear should have had the wherewithal to talk to Amos and hear his concerns--not fire him unceremoniously. But, that's show biz.

[@joegongora2200]

Yes Sir I certainly agree with you.

[@krlm2280]

@Terry Hawkins part of the reason mr Amos was forced out because he wanted them to focus on the other 2 and their dreams but the producers just wanted jj to say dynamite all the time

[@donnicholas7552]

It was a huge mistake getting rid of John Amos. Jimmy Walker's "dy-no-mite" was really getting on my nerves. I, too, moved on to a different shows. Happy New Year!! :-D

[@jdsundstrom]

Happy New Year, Don! Yep. The whole Dyn-O-Mite thing got old fast! Kinda like Fonzie's "Aaaayyyy!".

[@trueknowledgeispower]

And what really sucked was that Norman Lear didn't have the balls to fire Amos in person. Amos was fired over the phone.

[@dapdne4916]

Don, I agree totally.

[@dukecraig2402]

They should have got Dave Chappelle to play Walkers part in the live show the other night.

[@KevinDavis338]

I saw somewhere that Esther didn't like the character and asked they changed Jimmy's character.

[@moboutmen]

Jimmy Walker: "HOW COME? HOW COME"? John Amos: "You keep askin' HOW COME and you'll be askin' HOW COME your teeth ain't in the same room with your jaw."

[@shermanburnsjr.1116]

Too Funny,I remember that Episode!!!!!😂😂😂

[@funshine817]

If it was real, it would not be funny. James had a frightening temper. He bullied and was very controlling. One does not have to be a raging bull to raise good, disciplined, respectful children. Threats of physical violence, especially to children, is just not ok.

[@barcrrt850]

I watched "Coming to America" last night. John Amos played the great role of Eddie Murphy's love interests father.

[@josephclegg3562]

Cleo McDowell.

[@MLJ7956]

He (both the actor & character) even returns in the sequel 'Coming 2 America'....

[@dreadfulspiller8766]

It's hard to imagine a time with all these quality shows on only 3 channels.

[@jdsundstrom]

While we didn't have DVRs or streaming media, we did have the beauty of the absolute simplicity of three major networks.

[@chriss1152]

Your right we had better tv then Classic TV shows are always-the best 70s and 80s what a time

[@claygreen4723]

Too bad there aren't enough good shows to fill out 3 networks now. 57 channels and nothings on.

[@nickhill8612]

Haha yes I remember going outside to turn the antenna trying to get channels.

[@BETTERWORLDSGT]

And now You can have 200 channels and nothing to watch. I got rid of Cable a few years ago

[@mr.wizard2974]

Thelma was one of the hottest black girls I ever saw!

[@racerx2348]

hottest girls! hot is hot regardless of race : )

[@jas7869]

@RACER X Everyone has preferences and it is okay to acknowledge our differences, some people can see hotness in different colors but still don't see it as much equal all across the board, I am one of them although I am not into other girls!

[@racerx2348]

@@jas7869 cool...thats the beauty of it! i tend to be more attracted to asian women

[@jas7869]

@@racerx2348 That's fine, I am not a Asian woman but yes you have to go for the type of woman you desire the most that way you are satisfied and grateful. I myself have a thing for the white guys interracially.

[@racerx2348]

@@jas7869 interesting, im black, and have dated all kinds.

[@dmnemaine]

"Good Times" jumped the shark when they killed off James Evans.

[@lisafields3403]

Fum fact when Ester Rolle and John Amos were on Maude John Amos was named Fred and he was a Fireman for some reason they changed that on Good Times

[@jdsundstrom]

He was actually named Henry on Maude. Not sure why they changed it either.

[@lisafields3403]

@@jdsundstrom Right Henry I knew it was different name my mind escapes me lol

[@steve2474]

Not just that, but Maude was a rich, white ultra-liberal suburban woman living in Westchester County, New York where Florida Evans (Esther Rolle) was her maid. Yet, when GT rolled out, somehow the Evans family ended up in Chicago.

[@timepoet77]

bxktd Logical consistency wasn’t network TV’s strong suit in the 70s and 80s.

[@dawnuwangue6061]

Firefighters earn enough to support a middle class lifestyle. The family would not have been poor and probably would not have lived in the projects. I'm guessing it was important to Lear that Good Times depict a poor family.

[@j.d.murray8259]

The show nose dived after they fired him. The story line wasn't as good. But he went on to have a very successful career.

[@indigowolf556]

I didn't like the show after John left Then after Florida left it really went down hill.

[@jeffreyturner2791]

Right! They squeezed in Louis Gossett Jr. (a man not to be trusted)!

[@farrellmcnulty909]

Good Times was garbage after James was gone. I thought "Dy-no-mite" was funny back then, but these days, it makes me sick.

[@mangot589]

It was funny for a while, but it got old.

[@greciantwo]

I really enjoyed Amos's character. I felt it brought us together without patronizing a black father figure. I just thought Amos was cool.

[@jdsundstrom]

Totally agree...and John Amos is still cool!

[@brucetaylor7871]

Imagine that they Killed off the STRONG BLACK FATHER on american TV

[@maryjordan6424]

Thank you Dave!! You do a great job explaining everything in full detail!! I always love watching JJ and Thelma go but forth!! Yet if one needed the other they were always there for each other!!!

[@jdsundstrom]

Awesome, thank you!

[@macconmara7252]

I love how Good Times stood the test of time. Many shows from that era feel dated when watched today but not Good Times but only the episodes with John Amos. The show was never the same without his character. Thank you for this video dedicated to the excellent Mr. Amos.

[@jdsundstrom]

Great comment...and I'm glad you enjoyed the video, Mac!

[@martok2112]

Another excellent video, Dave. John Amos is definitely a favorite actor of mine. That guy's presence in pretty much everything I'd ever seen him in was power held in check... and when the check was off...watch out. What I remember of the episode where his character died in Good Times was Florida, trying so hard to be so strong for the family and friends during their bereavement, and then...."Damn! DAMN! DAAAAMMMMNNNN!!!!" Not ashamed to say that as a kid back then, and even stlll as an adult today, that scene chokes me up whenever I even so much as think about it. I think it was a great tribute to John's character, and I'm gonna go out on a limb, and am.willing to bet there was a bit of genuine feeling in Esther Role's portrayal of that time-stopping moment... that she openly vented her feelings to the viewer's about John's dismissal in that outburst... that it probably felt like a genuine death. I'm glad to hear that Amos and Lear pushed things up and improved their relationship. I love comedy- dramas. I love the emotional roller coaster they can take you on...a tribute to such shows' writing, direction, and the actors who bring laughter, tears, and everything in between to life. Shows like M*A*S*H*, Good Times, and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. The Orville seemed to be on a good start towards that as well as becoming pretty much the new Star Trek in its first couple of seasons. Thanks, as always, for sharing, Dave.

[@turdferguson7105]

Can't have a black family, with a strong black father for long.

[@funshine817]

Things did change...The Cosby Show. Although, off screen, BC was a horrible human being.

[@TerrysOdyssey]

Kind of like when family matters centered around Steve urkel. The later seasons got really bad. Especially when he cloned himself. But yeah good times got old when it turned into the jj show

[@henryscafe8364]

I heard Roll said the JJ character was a bad black stereotype.

[@TerrysOdyssey]

@Brandon Thom I remember that. It's something how that breakout character can piss off the rest of the cast. In a way I understand them being tossed too the side but jj was ratings and they all made more money

[@henryscafe8364]

When Urkel became famous the producers said, " We found our Fonzie."

[@robertclark6349]

In the beginning Urkel saved Family Matters from an early cancellation. But I agree that the show became too silly for its own good and should have ended two seasons before it did.

[@mikegamebred3464]

Amos was also in the movie Coming to America😸

[@josephclegg3562]

Cleo McDowell.

[@MyMindToMeAKingdomIs]

He was also in Die Hard 2

[@mikegamebred3464]

@@MyMindToMeAKingdomIs He was a hard ass Green Beret in that movie...💪

[@joet-sk4sw]

Man ....I love the way you appreciate great show's from the past, always a great video,thanks man.

[@texasgina]

50’s 60’s 70’s had the best TV shows! I loved Good Times, I hated when they got rid of the parents just like on What’s Happening they got rid of the mom

[@Dobiegal]

I loved Dee the bratty little sister. When she'd threaten to tell Momma, I just died laughing. That was a great show.

[@CitizenPerkins]

@@Dobiegal -- I loved Dee, too! And I *had* a bratty little brother at the time, too! 🤣

[@paulgrieshop5024]

@@Dobiegal remember later on when little earl would drive dee crazy the shoe was on the other foot

[@shanemize3775]

"Good Times" was an incredible show! Once John Amos left, it wasn't the same. I had no idea, until now, that he was fired. That is messed up. As much as I loved J. J. and can understand the producers wanting to build on his popularity, the whole concept of showing a WHOLE black urban family living life, struggling to deal with REAL issues, and loving each other through everything was so much more important than anything. John Amos brought so much to the show. He is such an incredible actor. Great video, as always, my friend. Keep them coming and God bless you!

[@jdsundstrom]

Great comments, Shane! Thanks for sharing!

[@SamWesting]

Character of James Evans was a role model for all young men growing up at the time, showing them how to be a father in the most trying of circumstances. Norman Lear killing him off was not only a short sighted business move: It was socially irresponsible. Shame on Norman for that, even if he & Amos did mend fences later.

[@jdsundstrom]

It was a bad decision and I believe that it ultimately led to the demise of the show.

[@waynejohnson2894]

I have been waiting for your video on Good Times!!! Thank you for being so diverse!!!

[@jdsundstrom]

You are very welcome, Wayne! I hope it didn't disappoint.

[@waynejohnson2894]

@@jdsundstrom No at all!!!

[@ursulabklyn_mia6148]

I was just a kid back then I felt his loss to the show. Never felt the same again. Back then we were all used to strong hard working dads at home. I really thought he died for real. When I saw him appear in the Eddie Murphy movie "Coming to America" I was in shock. I thought he died in the 70s. He was a shining star in the movie.

[@GrilledCheesemmmm]

Amos was the head of family. When he was gone the chemistry left with him. It was the end of the show.

[@josephclegg3562]

And when Esther left, the show definitely became a complete flop.

[@jediknightjairinaiki560]

When I think of John Amos, I remember is role as Dr. Conrad in the film "American Flyers" starring Kevin Costner.

[@jdsundstrom]

Another great movie! Loved "American Flyers".

[@dukecraig2402]

Watch "Vanishing Point", John Amos's first movie roll was in it and it's one of the greatest movies ever.

[@abcpanther]

I loved the show too. Their family reminded me of my own family members. Strong, determined characters led by a strong father. I loved it. It destroyed me as a kid when John was killed off. It really wasn't the same. Everything was a little hollow after for me ... and I moved on.... Thanks for the video. It brought back good memories and I like the happy ending between John and Norman... Happy New Year!!!

[@Jem2Jerica]

I still breakout in a sweat thinking about Penny getting burned with the iron.

[@jdsundstrom]

I have not seen that episode. From everything that I've read, I'm not sure that I want to.

[@panhead55]

Janet?

[@Jem2Jerica]

@@jdsundstrom it's not pleasant. It's about child abuse. I don't know that kind of thing was possible when I was a kid. It scared me...... excellent 2 part episode. Chip Fields plays Penny's mother.

[@MrWolfchamp-xi3cu]

@@jdsundstrom you should check it out. It's one of the best episodes of the series. It's a linear storyline across 4 parts I believe. It's really good. There were some really great episodes without James that should get credit. The iron burning part is off screen if you're worried about seeing that part. It didn't happen on screen.

[@parisday9631]

Jem Jerica I know, and meanwhile NO one ever reported her CRAZY self to the police.

[@eljay345]

Happy New Year Dave! Thank you for another very interesting and informative upload. Like ''Happy Days,'' ''Good Times'' is another favourite US TV show of mine. Unfortunately the former is re-run/repeated a lot annually on TV in New Zealand, but to my knowledge the latter hasn't been since my childhood. The US TV show ''Maude'' was on TV here a few nights ago on a special channel we have that broadcasts old TV shows.

[@jdsundstrom]

Happy New Year, Lisa!

[@terrencewimberly798]

I guess the image of a strong, Black father that John Amos portrayed was too much for the producers.

[@sarahsilverlight6161]

Ummm, no Coffee. He wasn't jealous of Walker. I had read that he voiced his opinion about JJ's character starting to become too ghetto. THAT was one of the reasons which led to Mr. Amos being let go.

[@kendallrivers1119]

@@sarahsilverlight6161 Also it was never personal between Jimmie and John. They had no personal beef at all it was all about the integrity of the series and what John and Esther thought would make the show better.

[@sarahsilverlight6161]

Kendall, I never said it was personal. It was regarding the character of JJ and the direction in which the writers were developing the character to be "too ghetto." Didn't realize that I had to fill in the blanks and just figured people would get what I said. P.S., please don't tag me. I will get your notification and really don't like that tagging draws attention to me and puts my opinions more in the public eye and draws possible unwanted attention by continuing to highlight my name. Thx. Stay safe

[@TheStuport]

I can STILL remember my Mom doing her imitation of "DY-NO-MITE" in her kitchen as she cooked our dinner. John Amos reminded me so much of my own Dad, who was a 30 year USAF Pilot....Strict but loving too and just wanting the best for his kids AND from his kids too. I personally always wished his character on The TV series West Wing as Admiral Percy Fitzwallace had more screen time but he nailed that role perfectly with Class! Great video Dave and REALLY looking forward to what you serve up in 2020! Cheers From Ohio

[@yell0wberry]

Norman Lear, Gary Marshall, and Sherwood Schwartz were three of the most historic television producers in all of Hollywood. Nowadays, you can't even think of three right now

[@haroldtaylor5640]

Dave, Dave, Dave! There is not much more I can say but, “dude, you did a fantastic job with this video!” It was entertaining, you taught me a few things, and it was just downright enjoyable! I also love John Amos on “Two and a Half Men”, as well! Keep up the good work my friend, and happy 2020.

[@misterhot9163]

I think John Amos did what relatively few actors did; he found for quality and integrity in entertainment, and fans knew that.

[@dwaynecollins4974]

Oh yeah he was in die hard 2, I love the part where Mclane says has anyone ever told you you look like the dad from Good times LMAO

[@jdsundstrom]

Ha! I remember! Great line!

[@trueknowledgeispower]

I about died when I heard that!

[@steevrawjers]

Dwayne Collins loLLLLL

[@davidcabral3805]

Dwayne Collins I think.that was said in another film about stripping! he was a cop.

[@GhostRider-870]

That line was from the classic stripper movie titled "The Players Club", not Die Hard 2.

[@colossusforbin5484]

Esther Rolle was actually 20 years older than John Amos and Isabel Sanford from the Jeffersons was 20 years older than Sherman Hemsley.

[@jdsundstrom]

I did not know that Isabel Sanford was that much older the Sherman Hemsley. Thanks for sharing, CF!

[@rjoseph8840]

@@jdsundstrom It's true. She was 93, when she passed away.

[@eloiseockert6561]

Well that was not obvious. This is what I meant with ILL Bill Frawley as Fred! I mean Bill looked.like he was in his 70's short fat & bald though a professional performer.

[@cheromnadarty1763]

19

[@stacyharper7783]

All of them looked like they were the same age.

[@thrashpondopons2776]

Mr. Amos had an impressive supporting role as one of the rouge military officers in 'Die Hard II'! Thanks as always Dave! & Happy New Year!

[@blachubear]

You forgot John's role in the movie "Coming To America". Classic.

[@josephclegg3562]

Cleo McDowell.

[@GunnyKeith]

John Amos was hilarious. He made that show. GREAT COMMENTARY & CONTENT. OUTSTANDING JOB DAVE. Appreciate all your time & research invested in videos.

[@jdsundstrom]

Thanks for the kind words, Keith!

[@keithkimmel6638]

Look under the word "class," and you'll find John Amos picture! He's a phenomenal actor and an even better person!

[@christelmothersbaugh1279]

Love, love, love John Amos. One of the reasons I love to watch Good Times. Been watching since I was 9 years old. My favorite seasons are 1-3 for obvious reasons. Great show. Great review video, too! 😎👍

[@jdsundstrom]

I'm glad you enjoyed the video, Christel!

[@marywalker4582]

I watched Good Times when it originally aired and, oddly enough, James was my favorite character. He reminded me so much of my own dad.

[@jakecooper5470]

I really like listening to your videos. You are full of great TV information and very likable!

[@jdsundstrom]

Wow, thank you, Jake!

[@joannaedwards4504]

James was the only one that I really liked because James really reminds me of my Dad on the Show I really didn't like J J goofy looking ✏ pencil ass at all

[@jimmyjamedwards5967]

JJ was the person everyone loved to hate...His "DY-NO-MITE" was a classic saying tho. He reminds me of Urkel on Family Matters. He was Urkel before his time.

[@kirkhonore]

John Amos was one of the top TV dads ever and I'm pretty sure Norman Lear regretted firing him from the show, especially since he and Esther grounded the show as the parents while allowing their 3 TV kids to shine and develop. John was one of those actors who was good enough to get work almost consistently and was praised for his work as an actor. The fact that he and Norman patched things up much later attests to the strength of John as an actor and a man, and Norman seemingly acknowledging quietly the regret for making the decision to let John go years ago. Bravo, Dave. Another excellent video.

[@jdsundstrom]

Great comment, KIrk! And...I'm glad you enjoyed the video. :)

[@DansTravels5823]

It is too bad so many shows when they have one breakout performer change the show to focus on him/her rather than as part of an ensemble. As has been said, I liked him when I was a kid, but now the character is a distraction.

[@claygreen4723]

Like how The Big Bang Theory became Sheldon and some other people?

[@SpidermanandhisAmazingFriends]

Or how Family Matters became the Urkel Show?

[@seanbrown3721]

Great job brother...love your channel so much ..reminds me of my early years....and as a black man I love how you give everyone their time to shine on your channel..you represent All the great people from those good days 70,'s..80's..you know...the good times ..

[@jdsundstrom]

Ha! I see what you did there! Thanks for the kind words and encouragement, Sean.

[@FozzieDunlop]

I had the same experience. I loved Good Times but one week there was a “parental guidance” episode because of some adult theme. I was told I could watch a different show that week. It was also Happy Days and I loved it. I Didn’t actually go back to Good Times until the afternoon reruns in the eighties.

[@kingforaday8725]

All these years I thought I was the only one!!!! The comment about recording TV shows on cassette tape and listening to them when I went to bed at night!!!! I actually still have one of them around here somewhere!

[@westfield90]

I loved this show. But I had no idea he was fired. I thought he had left for Roots and other movie roles. But I totally agree the show wasn’t the same after that.

[@jdsundstrom]

I think a lot of folks just assumed that he left the show to do "Roots".

[@geronimo9097]

There was very little social media back then. It's like he magically disappeared without a trace. I didn't have a clue why he left the show. I guess they didn't want to make the show and it's producers/executives look bad.

[@JeffIrok]

Another great video! In the early 1990s, Amos starred in a summer filler Norman Lear sitcom. It was kind of like an All In The Family sequel, as it took place in Archie and Edith's house (they rebuilt the sets). A grown-up Joey Stivick also appeared. I can't remember the name but it was a thing, in part, because it was John Amos' re-teaming with Lear after their Good Times falling out. So I imagine that validates what you said about the two having reconciled a long time ago.

[@catdude5567]

He was in Die Hard 2 & Coming to America.

[@jdsundstrom]

Loved him in both movies!

[@solomonallen3524]

He was also in The players club

[@BATMAN-gh1nf]

He was funny in Coming to America, the restaurant owner who blatantly ripped off McDonald's

[@thedragonlee76]

Too bad Cat Dude,I could have liked you and you kick me off a moving airplane and I get sucked into the planes engine.

[@steevrawjers]

Cat Dude yes I remember when I was watching die hard I was like Oh yeah that's the dad from good times Cool I was kind of sad to see him get all chopped up lol

[@passionforlust]

Happy New Year, hope it brings many blessings your way. Loved Good Times and what I liked about Norman Lear was his ability to take British sitcoms and reinvent them for the American market, classic TV which I don't think we will see it's type again-Cheers!

[@jdsundstrom]

Happy New Year to you as well, Dan!

[@Passionate4music1]

I believe that John Amos being released from Good Times was a blessing to his acting career. He wasn’t forever “boxed” in as the other cast members. He went on to bigger and better roles❤️. Although, I do agree the show was not good when they let him go. I actually cried when he “died” on the show🥵.

[@jdsundstrom]

I think you're right, Beverly. Looking back at John's great career, it was definitely a blessing to him. But still...Good Times suffered when he was fired.

[@renatacantore-gross8842]

I remember the devastation when they killed him off. I also remember feeling that America lost her mother when Esther died. I really loved GOOD TIMES.

[@ibji]

I always thought it was John's decision to leave so that he could be in Roots in 1977, which would have coincided with the 4th season of Good Times.

[@Yarncandybycherie]

Stumbled upon your channel. Love it!!

[@therifleman6962]

"DAMN....DAMN....DAMN!!!!!!!"

[@jdsundstrom]

Classic TV moment...and the beginning of the end.

[@GeraBrown]

@@jdsundstrom Yes I do remember that he was killed off. I never knew how. I must've heard it on GMA or ET, which were new at the time. Crazy!

[@ezwriter5589]

Unforgettable moment in TV history. R.I.P. the great Esther Rolle.

[@dgtwo3724]

@@GeraBrown Florida received a letter that James was killed in an auto accident in Mississippi where he had been working

[@GeraBrown]

@@dgtwo3724 Thanks for sharing that. It's weird that I feel a little sad just hearing about the death of a fictional character from a show I didn't watch 43 years ago! And I agree with some who didn't like Lear's nastiness between characters on his shows, but James L. Brooks at MTM also focused on negative traits, which is why I didn't much like their shows either, although WKRP was a slight improvement for them.

[@dennistietz9363]

I remember watching Good Times and the first time I saw the episode where John Amos’s character died, as I kid I recall believing that he did die thanks to the incredible acting and I cried. When I saw him on Beast Master I was confused. Of course later I realized what happened. And yes, I loved that Happy Days episode! Thanks for always keeping things positive! 👍🙏😁

[@jdsundstrom]

Thanks for sharing, Dennis!

[@susanr3933]

I enjoyed that show immensely!! I love the relationship that Florida and James had with each other and with the children. Taking in fact that they lived on a very limited budget and yet they live good and the parents instilled in the children good morals! And well Dynamite was Dynamite!!! There's no getting around it he was funny! And I loved when Florida would talk to her picture of Jesus with such a simple yet strong faith! And again with all great sitcoms the chemistry was amazing between those actors. And I was really sad when James died! And even though the show went downhill a little I had watched it till the end! By the way I also loved Happy Days! Speaking of Happy, I wish you a very happy and blessed New Year Dave!!

[@jdsundstrom]

Great comments, Susan! Happy New Year to you as well!

[@thedoxinator3934]

Met John Amos at a race track in NJ....I asked if he would pull a trick on my friends pretending he knew me, he did it was classic...I bought him a drink & chatted...good guy 👍

[@williamlangan5902]

John Amos was a great TV dad. And I agree, the show wasn't the same without him. But JJ was funny with his "Dynamite" phrase! Another popular phrase was "Well, you know, what can I say?"

[@Portugal2025]

Excellent tribute. Always been one of my favorite actors. A class act

[@jdsundstrom]

I'm glad you enjoyed the video, pnighswander!

[@aaronscott5882]

This video is a wonderfully informative stroll down memory lane! :)

[@jdsundstrom]

I'm glad you enjoyed the video, Aaron!

[@aaronscott5882]

@@jdsundstrom Keep up the excellent work!

[@ForPetesake552]

The 70’s and 80’s sitcoms were GOLD.

[@jons.6216]

John Amos always seemed to be keeping the characters he played in a more dignified genre anyhow! As Gordy on The Mary Tyler Moore show he could be funny, but in a more subtle sense! Esther Rolle to me goes down in the books as one of TVs most loveable mom characters and she's still very missed, IMO!

[@vince0896]

I love this show. It was one of my favorites. But your right, when Amos was gone, the show went with him. I saw that special that ABC just did. It was kind of cool seeing him and at the end the remaining cast. Thank you for all the videos you do. Great job.

[@jdsundstrom]

Thanks for the kind words, vap0896!

[@SandraBWard]

To me, it was their intention all along to have the show as a single black mother raising children and we are suppose to sit back and except this because white america says this is how it is. Racism at its best. The JJ character was a baffoon and the comedy relief and got tired real fast. Amos and Rolle tried to present a typical black family but the powers that be weren't having it. How dare a black man stand up and speak about these injustices and we know back then, black people really didn't have much pull in the industry. Kudos for what Amos and Rolle tried to do. For those who said he was not a good father, he laid down discipline and his children respected him and loved him. We all know another culture doesn't really believe in discipline, healthy discipline that's why your children be talking back and knocking you upside your head or killing you, i.e. The Manendez brothers, because they can't have their way. Try that in a black household.

[@jdsundstrom]

Thanks for the comment, Sandra! I think what John Amos and Esther Rolle tried to do is admirable. That said, based on numerous interviews with Amos, I think he would agree that he could have handled the situation more diplomatically.

[@rosbergs3]

Don't make it about race lady. Now go away.

[@SandraBWard]

@@rosbergs3 , Not going anywhere sweetie, be blessed.

[@konstantgrowth7551]

Thank you for your break down and backstory on this subject.

[@lancechaffin8009]

Yeah when john Amos left the show really declined and hi Dave how are u happy New Year as well

[@jdsundstrom]

Hey Lance! I'm fighting a bit of a cold today. Stayed home from work to recuperate and ended up making a video when I couldn't sleep. How are you doing, my friend?

[@lancechaffin8009]

I'm good Dave and happy New Year to you

[@murrayhaliburton4916]

Great show don't make them like that anymore pity.

[@jaspr1999]

You had the radio and I had the blue 8-track tape player... I probably still do in a box somewhere. :-D Dave, my wife & wish you and yours an awesome and blessed New Year!

[@jdsundstrom]

Happy New Year to you and your family as well, my friend!

[@kc0lif]

i like john Amos roots, in the house, but him and Jimmy Walker played on let's do it again with Sydney poitier and bill Cosby.

[@yell0wberry]

kc0lif Bootney Farnsworth..... The skinniest boxer I ever saw

[@Dhampir101980]

James was the heart of the show. After he died, so did the show. James paved the way for cliff on the Cosby show and Carl on Family Matter. Black TV fathers owe a lot of respect to John Amos.

[@r.davidliverman2107]

I didn't have a father that was around. But I loved James Amos. I am white and color didn't mean anything

[@KingD-light]

John Amos was my favorite TV pop's simply because he just like the way my real pop's was. Matter of fact the episode that began the fourth season made me cry so hard the way Florida broke down at the end of the show with the catch phrase " damn damn damn" she made it seem so real even though I was only a 5th grader at the time. Now I have the DVDs of the whole series that same effected my daughter the way it effected me back then, but in this case it reminds her of her grandfathers " my pop's" passing 4 years ago. I still look at John as that role model as of today.

[@DCMarvelMultiverse]

What?! Happy Days on at the same time as Good Times? Good Times or Happy Days? Sounds like the same thing to me? Why choose? Why make us choose?

[@jdsundstrom]

It was quite the dilemma, Bronze Age!

[@xcryptoxbeast1757]

Every time I heard the Good Times theme song, I had to sing it. It always made me smile. 😀

[@blakdrifterok2147]

They really missed up when they killed him off now that I am a adult i find myself watching only the one's with John Amos he was a good black strong father figure today's black kid's don't have that

[@chazhaze3d]

I also loved Good Times as a kid, and remember the rumor around was that he had actually passed away back then, so when we saw him later in Roots and definitely one of my favorite movies back then, Beastmaster, i was happy and relieved. I remember pointing out to my dad that he was still alive and my dad saying they probably didn't want to pay him or something. But showing him John was on Beastmaster actually got my dad to watch it out of curiosity and my dad still watches reruns of it today. One important film you didn't mention was Coming to America, loved him in that!

[@doriangraye1971]

John Amos' character frightened me when I was kid. When he got mad and his nostrils flared....mmm, mmm, mmm....run for the hills!

[@jdsundstrom]

You're right, Michael. At times, he seemed very imposing!

[@montgomerywolf3434]

@@jdsundstrom Yep...When you ****up...Dad imposes order on that @$$...

[@vanmoody]

Remember when he spanked the punk kid who Michael was tutoring? That kid understood that discipline is done because of love. We need more James Evans Srs in the world.

[@jfmthuglove]

Ikr

[@yell0wberry]

It kind of made you want to think twice about doing something really dumb

[@kweli05]

Dave, you should have a TV show yourself doing this. Really professional and quality. Love what you do and how you do it.

[@nightfangs2910]

Anyone else remember John Amos from the movie lock up with Stallone

[@steevrawjers]

night fangs true

[@DavidLLambertmobile]

He was also a LAPD capt 👮🏾‍♂️ on the tv series Hunter in the 1980s.

[@thomasenawilliams8562]

Yes, good movie.

[@thirdgengta]

Yep. He made an excellent protagonist in that film.

[@ratgrandma6540]

i liked him on beastmaster

[@dannysworld5430]

Your the man Dave happy new year

[@jdsundstrom]

Happy New Year to you as well, Danny!