In a heartfelt tribute to the late John Amos, the NBC drama "Suits LA" aired a special episode titled "Good Times" on April 6, 2025, nearly a year after the beloved actor's passing. Amos, who passed away on August 21, 2024, at the age of 84, made his final acting appearance in the series premiere of the spinoff, playing himself as a high-profile client of attorney Ted Black, portrayed by Stephen Amell.
The episode commemorates Amos's legacy by focusing on his characters’ efforts to secure a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for him, a fitting tribute to an actor whose career spanned decades and included iconic roles such as James Evans Sr. in the classic sitcom "Good Times." This episode not only highlights the impact Amos had on the entertainment industry but also showcases the personal connections formed between characters in the series.
In "Good Times," Ted Black and his former partner Rick Dodson, played by Bryan Greenberg, are brought together by the news of Amos's death. The storyline reveals how both characters are affected by the loss of Amos, who was not just a client but a mentor-like figure to Ted. The episode opens with a poignant scene where Ted reflects on Amos’s significance, stating, "John Amos was the Sidney Poitier of television. He should’ve had a star decades ago." This line encapsulates the sentiment felt by many who admired Amos's contributions to television.
As the episode unfolds, Ted and Rick face challenges in their quest to honor Amos. They encounter an executive responsible for the star nomination who is unfamiliar with the classic CBS series that made Amos a household name. This confrontation serves as a narrative device to highlight the need for recognition of Amos's legacy, as Ted passionately defends his mentor's contributions to the industry.
Despite their efforts, the duo learns that while the executive agrees to nominate Amos for a star, the process will take at least two years. This news leaves Ted grappling with the urgency of honoring Amos’s legacy before it fades from public memory. The episode closes with a touching moment where the lawyers watch an episode of "Good Times" in Amos’s honor, a reminder of the joy and laughter he brought to audiences.
Amos's portrayal in the series not only serves as a tribute but also reflects the show's commitment to honoring the legacies of influential figures in the entertainment industry. Series creator Aaron Korsh expressed his admiration for Amos, noting, "This idea of having celebrities play themselves sometimes was really appealing to me," highlighting the significance of including such an iconic figure in the series.
The episode also weaves in subplots involving other characters. Kevin, played by Troy Winbush, assists Erica, portrayed by Lex Scott Davis, with a family matter, showcasing the personal struggles and dynamics within the law firm. Meanwhile, Stuart, played by Josh McDermitt, and Samantha, portrayed by Rachelle Goulding, find themselves at odds over how to handle a problematic client, adding layers to the narrative.
Throughout the series, viewers have seen Ted Black navigate the challenges of running a law firm that specializes in entertainment law, balancing personal and professional relationships. The spinoff, set in the same universe as the original "Suits," has garnered attention for its engaging storylines and character development. With a stellar cast that includes Amell, Greenberg, Davis, and McDermitt, "Suits LA" continues to build on the legacy of its predecessor while addressing contemporary issues in the legal and entertainment fields.
As the show progresses, it will be interesting to see how the characters evolve in the wake of Amos's tribute. The emotional weight of his passing will likely resonate throughout the remainder of the season, providing depth and reflection on the impact of loss within the entertainment industry.
"Suits LA" airs new episodes every Sunday at 9:00 p.m. ET on NBC, with episodes available for streaming on Peacock the following day. The show's commitment to honoring John Amos serves as a reminder of the lasting impact that actors can have on audiences and the importance of recognizing their contributions to the arts.
In a world where the entertainment industry often moves quickly, "Suits LA" takes a moment to reflect on the past, ensuring that the legacies of those who paved the way are not forgotten. John Amos’s influence will continue to be felt, and through episodes like "Good Times," his memory is celebrated and cherished.
