“One of the last times I was with James Earl Jones was at Ford’s Theatre ten years ago in Washington,” read a statement released by the president. “He was being honored with the Lincoln Medal for his exemplary character and accomplishments on film and stage. 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. His legendary voice boomed wherever it was heard, an instrument and imprint that reverberated in the hearts of audiences worldwide. And we’ve all heard it.”

Actor James Earl Jones’s Hollywood career spanned nearly eight decades after debuting in the film Dr. Strangelove in 1964. Known for the voice of Darth Vader in Star Wars and Mufasa in Disney’s animated classic, The Lion King, Jones appeared in some of the most popular films of all time, including Field of Dreams (1989), The Hunt for Red October (1990), Coming to America (1988), among many others. 

“Through iconic characters, film, stage, commercials, radio, and more, his voice carried a sense of grace and dignity that commanded respect and demanded to be heard,” noted Biden’s statement. “His roles 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. For his remarkable talent, James has received numerous honors, including two Emmy awards, a Grammy award, an honorary Oscar, and two Tony awards — making him one of few Americans to earn an EGOT.”

Biden also mentioned Jones’s military service, something that was not widely known about the famous actor. The president praised the late actor for his service to the country. 

“He was a proud Army veteran, and I will always remember him as someone who served this country, influenced generations, and became one of the greatest actors of our time,” Biden said.