Shannon and K.C.’s touching story of struggle and success in the shadow of Father John Amos
In a Father’s Shadow
John Amos, known to the world as James Evans Sr. of “Good Times,” passed away on August 21, 2024.
Behind the scenes, he and his ex-wife Noelle Mickelson raised two children – Shannon Amos (born: August 5, 1966) and Kelly Christopher “K.C.” Amos (born: October 18, 1970).
John, who played the fun and warm-hearted father on TV, was a unique blend of discipline, adventurous spirit and tough love in real life.
A tale of tension in the family
In 2023, Shannon accused an unnamed caregiver of elder abuse and started a GoFundMe after receiving a disturbing phone call from her father.
The Colorado Bureau of Investigation investigated the case.
The following month, John leveled counter-accusations at Shannon in a video posted by K.C. K.C. was also arrested for threatening his sister.
By April 2024, the Los Angeles Police Department closed the investigation, deeming it a private family dispute.
John maintained hope for reconciliation despite the bitterness.
Shannon’s journey
Growing up riding horses in Sylmar, Los Angeles, Shannon began her career as a producer for “Yo!
MTV Raps” and “America’s Most Wanted.” She worked in marketing for films such as “I Am Legend” and “Blood Diamond.”
In 2003, she produced K.C.’s first indie film “The Watermelon Heist.”
She became a mother to daughter Quivira Noel (born November 30, 1991).
After working in film and TV for over 20 years, in 2020 she founded a wellness travel company called “Sumnah.”
Inspired by her mother’s last wish, she traveled to 14 countries and carried her mother’s ashes with her.
K.C. Accomplishments
An early attraction to cameras led K.C. from acting to directing and producing.
Received a Grammy nomination in 1996 for James McMurtry’s “Where You Hide the Body” video.
Received an honorary mention at Sundance for his short film “Siphon Gun.”
Worked with artists such as Lil Wayne, Rick Ross and Fat Joe.
Co-produced and directed “Mercy for Angels” (2015), in which John played God.
Documented father-son moments for a planned docuseries “America’s Dad.”
Legacy and Influence
Both of John Amos’ children have carried on his creative spark:
Shannon turned family pride into storytelling, producing and wellness entrepreneurship.
K.C. embodied his father’s love of fun and discipline through filmmaking and collaboration.
Their different paths – one headed toward global travel and wellness, the other deeper into music videos and documentaries – reflect John’s influence as a pioneer, mentor, and beloved father.
Summary:
The story of John Amos’ children shows how a father’s legacy continues to inspire even when the children follow different paths. Despite family tensions, both carried on their father’s creative spirit in their own unique ways.