The Broadway community will come together later this week to honor the life and accomplishments of four-time nominated and two-time Tony Award-winning actor and recipient of the 2017 Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement, James Earl Jones, who dedicated nearly seven decades of his life to Broadway.
The late American actor lived to age of 93 years old, before passing away on September 9, 2024.
He began his Broadway journey as an understudy in The Egghead back in 1957. He was awarded his first Tony for his contribution to The Great White Hope not more than a decade later. Throughout his time on the stage, he starred in everything from Othello to Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Of Mice and Men to The Gin Game.
“James Earl Jones was a true pillar of the Broadway industry, providing unforgettable experiences to multiple generations of theatregoers – all while accumulating many well-deserved honors, awards, and achievements for his iconic performances in other entertainment fields. While we acknowledge and celebrate Mr. Jones’ significant legacy across multiple mediums, we are particularly proud of his legacy on Broadway, and are grateful for the many memorable performances with which he graced our stages,” said Jason Laks, Interim President of The Broadway League.
He is one of the less than 30 people to win an EGOT for receiving an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony award.
Broadway theaters will dim their lights on Thursday, September 26th at 6:45pm.
Beyond the lights, Cort Theatre has been renamed the James Earl Jones Theatre as of September 12, 2024.