In 2022 the voice of Darth Vader EGOT actor James Earl Jones had a theatre on Broadway name for him.
Formerly The Cort, the theatre is the site where Jones made his Broadway debut in 1958 in “Sunrise at Campobello”.
On June 16 in a gala event, the lobby of the James Earl Jones Theatre will get an addition…a larger than life bust of Jones!
Jones’ son Flynn Earl Jones spoke on the statue via statement saying, “this sculpture is more than a tribute to an artist. It stands as a reminder of the depth, strength, and humanity my father brought to his work and to the people who loved him. His voice carried wisdom, courage, and compassion, and our family is deeply grateful to everyone who helped make this moment possible.”
Black Theatre United President LaChanze added, “this tribute recognizes not only what James Earl Jones achieved, but also the path he helped create for future generations of artists.”
Chairman and CEO of The Shubert Organization Robert E. Wankel noted, “there are very few artists whose legacy is so deeply connected to Broadway. With the addition of this statue, we add a new tribute to his namesake theatre, an especially meaningful honor in the theatre where his Broadway career began.”
The Society of Voice Arts and Sciences commissioned the statue with some support from the Black Theatre United and The Shubert Organization.
A smaller version of the bust will serve as the model for The Society of Voice Arts and Sciences James Earl Jones Prize which presented its inaugural award in 2025 to actor Laurence Fishburne.
SOVAS CEO and co-founder noted,“James Earl Jones changed the landscape of American storytelling through his work and his voice. We are proud to help celebrate his extraordinary legacy on Broadway.”
Jones died September 9, 2024 at the age of 93.