John Amos' Most Memorable 'Good Times' Scenes

For diehard fans, the series can be divided into two segments: Before James’ death and after James’ death. His absence casts an extremely large shadow over the show’s final three seasons. However, his death offered the cast a chance to do some outstanding work.

In one of the series’ most relevant episodes, the family is divided over who to vote for Alderman. James isn’t happy that Florida doesn’t want to vote for the incumbent. It’s both informative and funny.

When J.J. joins a gang and ends up getting shot, James focuses on his anger and almost makes a terrible mistake. Luckily, Florida is there to once again be the voice of reason.

We couldn’t talk about “Good Times” without talking about one of the series’ most traumatic scenes.

J.J. paints a Black Jesus and Florida is not having it, until Michael quotes the Bible to prove that J.J.’s painting is accurate. This is a subject that is still being debated today, once again proving how ahead of its time the show was.

When the Evans have a houseguest, James shares the couch with J.J. and Michael, leading to a bit of fun physical comedy for the three actors.

We get a rare glimpse at James’ vulnerable side when the father who abandoned him returns, seeking to be involved in his and his family’s life. James is obviously still angry about being left, but there’s a part of him who’s still the kid looking for a dad.

Healthcare for underprivileged communities is the focus when Penny gets sick and Florida has to take her to the free clinic. What makes this episode so memorable is that everything she goes through in this ‘70s series is still happening in 2024.

J.J. starts taking money by working with a gambling ring and Florida is not having it. He sees it as a victimless crime, but she doesn’t want it in her house.

When James gets his big job offer in Alaska, he sees it as a chance for the family to finally have good money, but Florida doesn’t want him to go. The conflict leads to one of their biggest fights and one of their most romantic moments.

Florida’s smooth talking boss shows up with fancy flowers and a sentimental present, James is ready to go off.

The family is worried about James’ health, because he works too hard and is always blowing his top.

When James and Florida go to the principal’s office to discuss J.J.’s grades, he explains that he’s giving underperforming kids passing grades as part of government bureaucracy. They don’t like this, because they want their son to actually get an education.

When James finds himself in an awkward situation with a calendar girl, Florida has serious questions. James is hilarious flustered, but also reminds Florida she’s the only one for him.

James is ready to spank Michael for messing up a school assignment until the young activist explains his reasons.