Honoring the life, legacy, and contributions of James Earl Jones.

Legislation Details

Honors the life, legacy, and contributions of James Earl Jones.
Acknowledges his birth on January 17, 1931, in Arkabutla, Mississippi.
Notes his early struggles with a stutter and how an English teacher helped him overcome it.
Highlights his education at the University of Michigan and his service in the United States Army.
Mentions his move to New York in 1955 to study at the American Theatre Wing.
Recognizes his Broadway debut in 1958 and his extensive career in theater, television, and film.
Celebrates his role in the New York Shakespeare Festival and performances in classic plays.
Points out his significant film roles, including his debut in “Dr. Strangelove” and voicing Darth Vader in “Star Wars.”
Acknowledges his pioneering role for Black actors and his achievements, including a Tony Award for “The Great White Hope.”
Notes his voice work as Mufasa in Disney’s “The Lion King” and his return to Broadway at age 84.
Mentions the renaming of a Broadway theater in his honor in 2022.
Lists numerous awards received throughout his career, including a National Medal of the Arts and an EGOT status.
Expresses condolences to his family and friends following his passing on September 9, 2024.