What families learned from the cultural impact of actor John Amos

The legendary actor John Amos died on Aug. 21, 2024 at 84. (Gus Ruelas/ Associated Press)

Earlier this week, the public was informed of the passing of legendary actor John Amos, who died on Aug. 21 at the age of 84.

The Emmy-nominated actor’s career spans multiple decades in television and film. He was best known for his roles in “Good Times,” “Roots,” “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” and the “Coming to America” films.

On Friday, NPR’s TV critic Eric Deggans returned to “Closer Look” to discuss the actor’s life and legacy, as well as the cultural significance Amos’s roles had on Black and American households.

Deggans also discussed his latest article “ What John Amos taught me about having — and being — a father.”