John Amos Net Worth

What Is John Amos’ Net Worth?

At the time of his death on August 21, 2024, John Amos, the celebrated American actor and former football player, had a net worth estimated at $300,000. While his passing occurred in August, the public announcement was delayed until October 1, 2024. Amos built his reputation through notable roles in television, film, and theater, with his most recognized role being on the CBS sitcom “Good Times.”

John Amos: Career Highlights and Earnings

John Amos’s career spanned several decades, beginning with his early athletic endeavors and transitioning into acting. His initial foray into professional football saw him signing as a free agent with the Denver Broncos in 1964. However, his time with the team was short-lived due to a hamstring injury sustained during training camp. Before his acting career fully took off, Amos also played with the Canton Bulldogs in the United Football League, the Norfolk Neptunes in the Continental Football League, and the Waterbury Orbits in the Atlantic Football League. In 1967, he returned to professional football and signed as a free agent with the Kansas City Chiefs but subsequently played with the Victoria Steelers in the Continental League.

His transition into acting marked a significant shift in his career trajectory. One of his earlier, more noticeable roles was as weatherman Gordy Howard on “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” from 1970 to 1973. Following this, John secured the role of James Evans Sr. on the sitcom “Maude.” Then, he continued playing the character in “Good Times” from 1974 to 1976, appearing in 61 episodes. He starred alongside Esther Rolle, who played his wife, Florida Evans, as well as Jimmie Walker, Ralph Carter, and BernNadette Stanis, who played his three children. While specific contract details for “Good Times” are not publicly available, it is known that Amos’s dissatisfaction with the show’s direction led to his dismissal in 1976.

In 1977, Amos secured a role in the miniseries “Roots.” His performance earned him an Emmy Award nomination, adding prestige to his career. While specific salary figures for “Roots” are not publicly accessible, the recognition undoubtedly bolstered his marketability and earning potential.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Amos maintained a steady presence in television, appearing in numerous shows such as “Here’s Boomer,” “The Love Boat,” “The A-Team,” and “The Cosby Show.” From 1999 to 2004, he played the recurring role of Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on “The West Wing,” appearing in 22 episodes. Again, precise salary figures for these roles remain undisclosed.

On the big screen, Amos appeared in films such as “Coming to America” (1988) and “Die Hard 2” (1990). While his exact earnings from these films are not public knowledge, these roles contributed to his overall income and fame.

In addition to his work in television and film, Amos also ventured into theater. He produced and wrote “Halley’s Comet,” a one-man play that he performed internationally. He also appeared in August Wilson’s “Gem of the Ocean.” The financial gains from these theatrical ventures remain unspecified.

Real Estate and Financial Challenges

In 1990, John Amos purchased a home in Lebanon, New Jersey, for $337,000. This property was listed for sale in December 2016 with an asking price of $439,000. When a buyer could not be found, the home eventually went into foreclosure. In April 2021, either Amos or his bank sold the property for $288,000, resulting in a financial loss compared to the initial purchase price. The property’s exact address and detailed history are a matter of public record, demonstrating transparency in real estate transactions.

In June 2023, John’s daughter, Shannon Amos, initiated a GoFundMe campaign with the goal of raising $500,000 to support him. She claimed that John had been a victim of elder and financial abuse. However, John Amos refuted these claims and questioned the necessity of the GoFundMe campaign. This situation highlights the complexities and potential financial vulnerabilities that can arise, even for individuals with established careers in the entertainment industry. The campaign’s lack of success in reaching its funding goal further illustrates the skepticism surrounding the claims.

The discrepancy between the GoFundMe’s stated goal and the public’s perception underscores the challenges celebrities and their families face when navigating financial matters in the public eye. This incident also serves as a reminder of the importance of sound financial planning and protection against potential abuse, regardless of one’s professional achievements.

Early Life and Background

John Amos was born on December 27, 1939, in Newark, New Jersey, to John Amos Sr., an auto mechanic, and Annabelle Amos. He was raised in East Orange, New Jersey, and graduated from East Orange High School in 1958. Following high school, he attended Long Beach City College in California before earning a degree in sociology from Colorado State University. While at Colorado State, he played on the football team and later became a Golden Glove boxing champion. These early athletic achievements laid the groundwork for his physical presence and discipline, which likely contributed to his success in acting.

Personal Life and Relationships

In 1965, John Amos married equestrian and artist Noel Mickelson. Together, they had two children, Shannon and K.C., before divorcing in 1975. Later, in 1978, Amos married actress Lillian Lehman, but their marriage ended in divorce in 1979. These personal relationships reflect the challenges and complexities of maintaining stability in the entertainment industry. Beyond his immediate family, John Amos was a veteran of the 50th Armored Division of the New Jersey National Guard. Additionally, he was an Honorary Master Chief of the United States Coast Guard.