President Joe Biden has paid tribute to the late James Earl Jones, the iconic actor renowned for his commanding voice and unforgettable roles in film and theater. In a statement released on Tuesday, Biden reflected on his admiration for Jones, whom he last saw when the actor accepted the Lincoln Medal for his exemplary character and accomplishments.
Biden shared a personal connection with Jones, noting that they both overcame childhood stuttering to find their voices. “I admired him for something else as well, something we both had in common – overcoming a childhood stutter to find our voice for something bigger than ourselves,” Biden said. This shared experience underscored the president’s deep respect for Jones’s journey and achievements.
Jones’s legendary voice became synonymous with some of the most beloved characters in pop culture, including Darth Vader in “Star Wars” and Mufasa in “The Lion King.” His distinctive tone also became the voice of CNN. However, few know that Jones’s iconic voice was almost silenced by a childhood stutter. A traumatic move caused Jones to develop a stutter, rendering him nearly mute until his high school poetry teacher encouraged him to read his poems aloud.
This transformative experience helped Jones overcome his disability, and his voice went on to become one of the most recognizable in Hollywood. With a decades-long career spanning film, stage, commercials, and radio, Jones left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. His notable roles in movies such as “The Sandlot,” “Field of Dreams,” and “Coming to America” cemented his status as a cultural icon.
President Biden praised Jones’s ability to bring gravity and dignity to his characters, noting that his performances “made us stop, stayed with us, and inspired us to reflect on everything from race and power, good and evil, to our place in the world.” Through his iconic characters and body of work, Jones’s legacy will continue to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.
Jones passed away on Monday at the age of 93, leaving behind a timeless voice that will forever be etched in the hearts of fans globally.
