James Earl Jones is one of the most iconic voices in entertainment. Scores have fallen in love with his voice through his appearances in films such as Star Wars, where he did the voice of Darth Vader, and also in The Lion King, where he did the voice of Mufasa. Beyond the performances, though, Jones has also been a source of inspiration in talking about love, respect, and his extraordinary career. On this other wisdom, beyond stage and screen, the actor shared things to be done that put values into light and helped in shaping life and career over these years.
Love as a Foundation for Life
Jones attributes love both in his personal and professional life as a cornerstone. He shared a very unconditional love with his grandparents as they brought him up through some very trying times during his childhood. Love for Jones means not only couples but families and also communal love. He believes that love somehow pertains to meaningful connection formation and is the motivation or drive to be kind, understanding, and growing.
Jones himself has said in several interviews that the love his grandparents bestowed upon him helped him set an attitude toward life and gave him stability and strength to pursue his dream. The sense of love he has for family trickles over to his colleagues and audience, where he returns with great respect for others.
Respect: A Two-Way Street
To James Earl Jones, respect has always been a major part of his life in dealing with others. He puts forth that respect goes hand in hand with being given to and earned from one another, and in the world of entertainment, for great work to be produced, actors along with their respective directors and crew members must have respect for one another. This respect is deeply reflected in the nature of Jones’ humility and regard toward the craft of acting. He has never taken his success for granted.
Colleagues described him as affable and modest, an expanding mindset hinged on respect toward one another. He has acknowledged that respect accorded to each other, whatever the portfolio, begets an environment of mutual trust and collaboration.
A Career Marked by Resilience
Jones’s career over six decades speaks volumes for his perseverance and devotion. One who had setbacks as part of his childhood, a speech impediment-the man literally and metaphorically found his voice and grew up to be one of the finest actors of his generation. His career is replete with iconic roles and accolades galore, reflective of an abiding passion for storytelling with an unwavering commitment to excellence.
