John Allen Amos Jr., a renowned American actor, is widely recognized for his iconic roles in groundbreaking television series and films. From his portrayal of Kunta Kinte in the miniseries Roots to James Evans Sr. in Good Times, John Amos has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
Behind his successful career lies a personal story filled with love, challenges, and the pursuit of breaking societal barriers. At the center of this narrative is his first wife, Noel J. Mickelson. Let us delve into the remarkable journey of John Amos and the woman who played a significant role in his life.
Meet Noel J. Mickelson: John Amos’ First Wife
Noel J. Mickelson, John Amos’ first wife, was an exceptional individual who excelled in various domains. As a renowned equestrian, architect, environmentalist, and artist, Mickelson held a deep love and respect for nature. Her passion for creativity and self-expression resonated strongly with her children, Shannon and K.C. Amos. Mickelson instilled in them the ability to embrace their creative instincts, leaving a lasting impact on their lives.
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A Peek Into John Amos And Noel Mickelson’s Love Story
John Amos and Noel Mickelson’s love story began during their college days. Despite coming from different cultural backgrounds, with Mickelson being an Ashkenazi Jew and Amos having Ghanaian heritage, their connection was undeniable. However, they faced a formidable obstacle—their love was deemed illegal due to the prohibition of interracial marriages in numerous states during that era.
Living in a time of fervent civil rights movements and the fight against racial discrimination, Amos and Mickelson defied societal norms and decided to marry. In 1967, their perseverance paid off when the United States Supreme Court overturned the laws prohibiting interracial marriage, rendering their union legal nationwide. This landmark ruling allowed John and Noel to celebrate their love openly and paved the way for countless other couples to follow.
John Amos And Noel Mickelson Have Two Kids
John Amos and Noel Mickelson embraced the joys of parenthood and welcomed two children into their lives. Shannon, their eldest daughter, was born a year prior to the legalization of their marriage. Shannon has made her mark behind the scenes, working as a writer and producer for esteemed media platforms like BET and MTV.
In 1970, the couple’s second child, Kelly Christopher (K.C.) Amos was born. K.C. pursued a career in the entertainment industry, establishing himself as a director, producer, and video editor. His contributions to films such as “The Watermelon Heist,” “Tamales and Gumbo,” and “Hauntsville” showcase his talent and dedication.
John Amos and Noel Mickelson strived to shield their children from the harsh realities of racism. However, the corrupted society of the time eventually caught up with them. In an Instagram post, Shannon revealed a harrowing incident where her family confronted an armed racist who aimed a gun at her father. This experience served as a pivotal moment for Shannon, as it prompted her parents to explain the harsh realities of the world they lived in.
Despite the challenges they faced, Shannon and K.C. Amos maintain a strong bond with their father, considering him one of their greatest inspirations. The resilience and strength demonstrated by John Amos in the face of adversity left an indelible impression on his children.
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The End Of A Chapter: John Amos And Noel Mickelson’s Divorce
John Amos and Noel Mickelson’s marriage came to an end in 1975, shortly before Amos’s departure from “Good Times” due to ongoing conflicts with the show’s writers. Following their separation, John Amos entered into a second marriage with actress Lillian Lehman. However, this union faced its own set of challenges, leading to their separation in 1979.
Noel J. Mickelson, John Amos’ first wife, passed away in December 2016, surrounded by her family. Her departure left a void in the lives of those who loved her dearly. As an accomplished equestrian, architect, environmentalist, and artist, Mickelson’s contributions to her fields of passion were significant. Her children, Shannon and K.C., hold cherished memories of their mother, whom they affectionately referred to as ‘Noni.’ In her last moments, Noel expressed regret for not being able to travel and see the world. In honor of her last wish, Shannon embarked on a journey to carry her mother’s ashes around the world, ensuring her spirit lives on.