Some of the most prominent figures in show business gathered in Times Square to pay tribute to the late James Earl Jones, who died at the age of 93. Denzel Washington praised Jones as a personification of grace, power, and humility, and shared his hopes of becoming as great a stage actor as Jones. Linda Powell reflected on Jones’s role in pushing for her to be cast in a Broadway revival of “On Golden Pond,” calling his faith in her a gift. Other actors, including Phylicia Rashad and Whoopi Goldberg, shared their personal experiences with Jones and praised his unmatched talent on stage and screen.
Frankie Faison, Candice Bergen, Glynn Turman, and Kelsey Grammer also attended the event and shared stories of Jones’s generosity and mentorship. Laurence Fishburne and Mark Hamill sent in video messages of remembrance. Jones’s family members, including his son Flynn Earl Jones, spoke about his humble nature and his impact on their lives. Flynn described his father as incredibly humble despite the widespread recognition of his talent and influence across the industry.
Jones overcame a challenging childhood marked by abandonment and a stutter to become one of the most celebrated actors in Broadway history. His career spanned decades and included roles in classics, experimental theater, and contemporary plays. He appeared in 21 Broadway productions and won two Tony Awards for Best Actor, as well as a special Tony for lifetime achievement in 2017. Jones was a trailblazer for Black actors, inspiring a generation of performers with his talent and presence on stage.
Courtney B. Vance, who played alongside Jones in “Fences” on Broadway in 1987, recited lines from the August Wilson play in a touching tribute at the memorial. Vance shared how Jones and the cast of “Fences” helped him navigate the world of theater and taught him valuable lessons in the industry. Vance reflected on his friendship with Jones and the last time he saw him at his home in upstate New York during the pandemic. Despite Jones’s passing, his legacy as a groundbreaking actor and mentor to many in the industry lives on through the stories and memories shared by those who knew him best.
The memorial highlighted Jones’s impact as a mentor, friend, and source of inspiration for countless actors and performers. His contributions to Broadway and the entertainment industry were praised by his peers and family members alike. Jones’s personal journey of overcoming adversity and finding success in the face of challenges resonated with many, making his legacy enduring and far-reaching. As one of the greatest actors to grace the Broadway stage, Jones will be remembered for his talent, grace, and profound influence on generations of performers to come.
