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Shocking allegations about US TV icon’s death

The family of Good Times star John Amos have alleged that foul play was involved in his death in a shocking social media statement.

Martin Lawrence hails late ‘Good Times’ star John Amos a ‘true legend’

The family of a US TV legend have alleged that they believe there was foul play involved in the star’s death.

John Amos, best known for playing James Evans Sr. on Good Times, died at age 84.

Following the announcement, the star’s daughter Shannon Amos revealed that most of her family found out about his death through the media.

She said they have been left with “many questions” about his passing, and questioned why those caring for the star in his final days failed to notify his family about his death for over a month.

Actor John Amos passed away at the end of September, but his family have only just been made aware. Photo: Craig Barritt/Getty Images.
Actor John Amos passed away at the end of September, but his family have only just been made aware. Photo: Craig Barritt/Getty Images.

“It is with profound sadness and distress that we must share the circumstances surrounding our father’s passing. He was a loving man who brought light into the lives of many.”

“However, our family only learned of his death today through media reports, only to discover he actually passed away 45 days ago. Shockingly, we were not notified, nor were any family members informed.”

“This tragic news has left us in shock and heartache. We do not have a death certificate, nor do we know where or why he died, but we know he was suffering from congestive heart failure and dementia. We fear he was likely cremated to avoid any potential investigation into the conditions surrounding his final days.”

Amos went on to claim that the family were left with concerns that her father had been a victim of “elder abuse” by those caring for him.

“Over the past year, John Amos was isolated from his family and close friends by Kelly “KC” Amos, Eugene Brummet and Belinda Foster. Despite our repeated attempts to maintain contact, KC prevented access to him, controlled and monitored his calls and severed ties with John’s daughter Shannon Amos, his brother Leslie “Syl” Franklin, his grandchildren Quiera Colston and Jhazz Williams, his business manager Paul Baldessare, his goddaughter Amy Goudy, his niece Sherri Korsun, his former accountant and other close family members, friends, and loved ones,” the statement continued.

It’s emerged that some of Amos’ family have alleged that their father may have fallen victim to “elder abuse”. Photo: Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images.
It’s emerged that some of Amos’ family have alleged that their father may have fallen victim to “elder abuse”. Photo: Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images.

“KC portrayed an image of a close father-son relationship on social media, but the reality was far more complex. Our father suffered from dementia, and KC often gave John verbal prompts to create a narrative on social media that was not reflective of the truth.”

She went on to share that despite “photos being sent from concerned neighbours, that an investigation into the alleged abuse failed to find enough evidence to warrant action being taken.

“We were deeply concerned that our father may have been neglected and isolated during his final days as we received photos from concerned neighbours and a medical professional. One photo even prompted an Elder Abuse investigation to no avail.”

“At a time when we should be grieving and celebrating our father’s remarkable life, we find ourselves in the unfortunate position of seeking justice and clarity,’ the statement concluded, signed by Shannon Amos (Daughter), Quiera Williams (Grand-daughter), Jasper and Nakia Willams (Son in Law & Wife), Amy Goudy (God-Daughter), Paul Baldessare (Business Manager), Leslie Franklin (Brother), Willie Quinney (Best Friend) and Sherri Korsun-Scott (Niece).”

Amos was known to many as the “father” of US television. Photo: Craig Barritt/Getty Images.
Amos was known to many as the “father” of US television. Photo: Craig Barritt/Getty Images.

Following the family’s shocking statement, Amos’ death certificate was released by TMZ, which listed that the star was cremated nine days after he died.

His cause of death was listed as heart failure, and KC was listed as the party who had informed authorities of the TV actor’s death.

It also revealed that no autopsy was performed.

In 1977, John received an Emmy nomination for his role as adult Kunta Kinte in Roots.

The actor also has acting credits in several movies and TV shows, including The West Wing, The District, Hunter, Coming to America, Dr. Dolittle 3, The Player’s Club and many more.

Originally published as Shocking allegations about US TV icon’s death

Original URL: https://www.themercury.com.au/entertainment/shocking-allegations-about-us-tv-icons-death/news-story/d0e7375361f729989f4d78c7055c8942