John Amos Emphasized How the 'Love Is Still There' with His Family Despite Elder Abuse Case Before His Death

The late John Amos spoke out about his love for his family before his death.

In an interview with PEOPLE in December 2023, the Roots actor opened up about his relationship with his kids after his daughter, Shannon Amos, claimed he was a “victim of elder abuse” at the hands of her brother, John’s son, K.C. Amos.

Speaking alongside his filmmaker son, John denied the claims, but said he will always hold his family close to his heart.

"Right now, it is somewhat acrimonious, but never mind what you might read or hear about in the paper or on this medium or that medium platform,” he said. “Suffice it to say we are still family, and we love each other, and that's the bottom line.”

"It is [K.C.’s] sibling, that is my daughter, my first child. I love her. K.C. loves his sister. We just have, I guess, what might be best described in the tabloids is an acrimonious relationship, but everything heals in time, and the love is still there," he reiterated.

Later, the Good Times patriarch added that "all families go through trials and tribulations of some sort,” but he hoped for a "harmonious relationship at some point."

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

John died of natural causes at the age of 84 on Aug. 21, although his family did not announce the news until Oct. 1. In a statement to PEOPLE from son K.C., he commended his father for his kindness and success in the entertainment industry.

“It is with heartfelt sadness that I share with you that my father has transitioned,” K.C. wrote. “He was a man with the kindest heart and a heart of gold… and he was loved the world over."

He continued: "Many fans consider him their TV father. He lived a good life. His legacy will live on in his outstanding works in television and film as an actor. My father loved working as an actor throughout his entire life. Most recently in Suits LA playing himself and our documentary about his life journey as an actor, America's Dad. He was my dad, my best friend, and my hero. Thank you for your prayers and support at this time."

In June 2023, Shannon claimed that John was experiencing “elder abuse and financial exploitation” in a lengthy Instagram post. She filed a complaint with the Colorado Bureau of Investigation and created a GoFundMe page to raise "care expenses" for the Coming to America star, but the page was later removed at his request.

“November, my dad and I created a cherished video together. Little did we know the challenges that lay ahead. On May 14th, I would receive a distressing call: from my dad, sharing that he was hospitalized in Memphis, Tennessee, in immense pain,” she wrote at the time. “Despite being out of the country, I arranged for help to reach him. ICU revealed his life hanging by a thread.”

“This cruel reality bewilders us, but we hold onto hope,” it later read. “Every donation will be directed to a trust for my dad's care, legal fees, and aftercare. Help us win this battle, send love, and kindle hope for the day we can dance together again. Your support means the world, as we navigate this darkness, united in the belief that justice and healing will prevail.”

Less than a year later, John told PEOPLE the allegations were “false and unmerited”, referring to K.C., 53, as “a caring, thoughtful human being who respects me.” 

"People think this is about money and rivalry... it is not." Shannon said in a statement responding. "...I love my brother and I hope he will get the help he needs, but we need to prioritize the safety of my father who is vulnerable, first and foremost. Anything else can be addressed within our family."

At the time, the Los Angeles Police Department also launched an investigation into Shannon’s claims that her brother wasn’t providing the appropriate care for their father amid his health issues. On April 8, the LAPD closed the case due to lack of evidence, which disappointed Shannon.

However, Amos thanked authorities for “their professionalism and thoroughness in their investigation.” He also vowed to “shed light on the real truth as to the motives of those who have painted a false narrative about me” in a documentary he was producing with his son.