How much did John Amos make throughout his career? Known for Good Times and Roots, he built a legacy in Hollywood. However, despite his success, his finances faced ups and downs, including real estate losses and financial controversies.
This article breaks down John Amos net worth, salary, and financial journey, giving you an inside look at how his wealth changed over time.
John Amos Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | John Allen Amos Jr. |
| Popular Name | John Amos |
| Birth Date | December 27, 1939 |
| Age (as of 03/02/2025) | 84 (Died: August 21, 2024 ) |
| Birthplace | Newark, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Education | Long Beach City College, Colorado State University |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouse | Lillian Lehman (m. 1978–1979), Noel J. Mickelson (m. 1965–1975) |
| Children | Shannon Amos, K.C. Amos |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Parents | John Amos Sr., Annabelle P. Amos |
| Height | 1.8 meters |
| Net Worth | $300,000 (at time of death) |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, Television, Theater |
What is the Net Worth Of John Amos in 2025?
John Amos’ estimated net worth in 2025 remains at $300,000. Despite being a legendary actor, financial struggles impacted his wealth. Compared to other actors from his era, his net worth is significantly lower.
For example, his Good Times co-star Jimmie Walker has an estimated net worth of $800,000, while actors like Eddie Murphy and Sylvester Stallone boast multi-million-dollar fortunes.
Real estate losses and financial controversies, including a foreclosure, contributed to his relatively modest wealth.
Related People & Entities:
- Jimmie Walker
- Esther Rolle
- Eddie Murphy
- Sylvester Stallone
- Bill Cosby
- The West Wing (TV series)
- Colorado State University
- The Mary Tyler Moore Show
- Norman Lear
- Hollywood
For more insights into the financial world of celebrities, check out this list of the wealthiest stars.
John Amos Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Much Did He Earn Throughout His Career?
John Amos’ career spanned over five decades, with earnings coming from television, film, and theater. His biggest payday came from Good Times, where he played James Evans Sr. for three seasons.
He also had a recurring role in The West Wing and starred in blockbuster films like Coming to America and Die Hard 2. However, his salary from these roles has not been publicly disclosed.
Besides acting, he earned money from:
- Broadway productions like Gem of the Ocean
- A one-man show, Halley’s Comet
- Voice work and guest appearances on popular TV shows
Did He Face Financial Struggles?
Yes, John Amos had financial difficulties later in life. His biggest loss came from real estate. He purchased a home in Lebanon, New Jersey, for $337,000 in 1990, but after failing to sell it, the property went into foreclosure in 2018 and was sold for $288,000.
Additionally, a GoFundMe campaign was started in 2023 by his daughter Shannon, claiming that he was a victim of financial and elder abuse. However, John denied these claims, causing controversy.
What Were His Main Financial Assets?
John Amos’ wealth was mainly tied to his acting career. His primary financial assets included:
- Acting contracts from Good Times, Roots, and films
- Real estate holdings, including the New Jersey home he lost
- Theater productions, such as Halley’s Comet
However, without major endorsements or business ventures, his wealth did not grow significantly in later years.
Did He Have Any Investments or Side Businesses?
Unlike many actors who expand into business, John Amos primarily focused on entertainment. He did have some small-scale ventures, such as:
- Theater production and playwriting
- Guest speaking engagements
- Occasional music projects, including a country album
However, he did not build a substantial business empire like some Hollywood veterans.
How Did His Wealth Change Over Time?
John Amos had a peak financial period in the 1970s and 1980s. During this time, he starred in hit shows and movies, likely making him one of the better-paid actors of his generation.
However, his wealth declined due to:
- Leaving Good Times early (limiting his long-term earnings)
- Lack of major Hollywood paychecks in later years
- Financial mismanagement and real estate losses
His financial situation never fully recovered, and he had a much smaller fortune than some of his industry peers.
What Was His Financial Legacy?
Despite financial struggles, John Amos left behind a lasting legacy in Hollywood. He was one of the first Black actors to play a strong, positive father figure on TV, paving the way for future generations.
His career serves as a reminder that financial stability is not guaranteed, even for famous actors. His ups and downs highlight the importance of financial planning in the entertainment industry.
Conclusion
John Amos’ financial journey was a mix of success and struggles. While he had iconic roles, his net worth did not reflect his cultural impact. His story is a lesson in both Hollywood earnings and financial challenges.
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