The New York Times reported that veteran actor James Earl Jones is having a Broadway theatre named after him. The Shubert Organization will rename the Cort Theatre after the iconic actor.
The two-time Tony Award winner has starred in more than 20 productions on Broadway, beginning in 1957 in The Egghead. In 1958, Jones made his debut at the Cort Theatre in Sunrise at Campobello.
Jones released a statement noting he could have never imagined having the theatre named after him when he first began his career on Broadway and hopes his career will inspire other actors.
“For me standing in this very building sixty-four years ago at the start of my Broadway career, it would have been inconceivable that my name would be on the building today,” said Mr. Jones. “Let my journey from then to now be an inspiration for all aspiring actors.”
He won his first Tony award in 1969 for Best Actor The Great White Hope. Jones won his second Tony in 1987 for his role in August Wilson’s Fences as Troy Maxson, also for Best Actor. The 91-year-old EGOT winner also received a lifetime achievement Tony Award in 2017.
Shubert CEO Robert Wankel also issued a statement.
“The Shubert Organization is so incredibly honored to put James — an icon in the theatre community, the Black community, and the American community — forever in Broadway’s lights,” he said. “That James deserves to have his name immortalized on Broadway is without question.”
Jones starred in his most recent Broadway show with Cecily Tyson in The Gin Game in 2015. He has also had a successful film career spanning several decades.
The actor’s iconic voice landed him the role of Darth Vader in Star Wars, one of his most famous roles. The legend has also starred in more than 89 films, including Conan the Barbarian, Coming To America, Clear And Present Danger, Field of Dreams and Welcome Home, Roscoe Jenkins.
The Cort Theatre is currently undergoing renovations. When finished sometime this summer, an official dedication ceremony will be held, renaming the theatre after Jones.
Congratulations, Mr. Jones!
