James Earl Jones leaves a legacy and life lesson
Popology Lesson by Kris Fisher
There are certain performers, iconic and instantly recognizable, whose names conjure more than merely their status as an actor or celebrity. Such is the case with James Earl Jones.
There are also certain actors or celebrities who you feel like will live forever. That was James Earl Jones as well.
Sadly, James Earl Jones, the actor, philanthropist, EGOT winner, inspiration, and icon, did the unthinkable: He left this world on Monday, September 9, 2024, at the age of 93. He joins an ever-growing list of people that I truly felt were immune to death and have, repeatedly, proven me wrong. It is ridiculous, I know. But the sheer strength of what Jones gave the world through his art just made him seem immortal.
I felt the same way when Michael Jackson died. And when Tom Petty, Betty White, Tony Bennett, Prince, and Robin Williams left us. It is a list that goes on and on.
I know celebrities are mortal, just like the rest of us. I know they will all eventually leave this world, just like the rest of us. Still, I think back to what Ernest Hemmingway once said.
“Everyone has two deaths, when they are buried in the ground and the last time someone says their name.”
Hemingway could get deep.
He was right though. There are those whose names will be spoken long after they are gone. James Earl Jones is one of them.
He lent his voice and talent to so many iconic characters. I feel certain we will be quoting him for years, although we will not sound as good doing it.
“My son WORKS?!”
King Jaffe in “Coming to America”
“While others search for what they can take, a true king searches for what they can give.”
Mufasa in “The Lion King”
“I take it back. You’re not in trouble, you’re dead where you stand.”
Mr. Myrtle in “The Sandlot”
And of course…
“No. I am your father.”
you-know-who in you-know-what
These quotes are such a small piece of what he gave to the world and do not represent the things we will be saying about Jones for many years. Overcoming a severe childhood stutter, Jones grew to be a highly acclaimed and respected actor, becoming one of the very few to earn an EGOT, the unofficial honor bestowed on performers who have received an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony award. There are also the many characters, brands, and organizations he lent his very distinguished voice to. James Earl Jones was CNN.
As death often does, Jones’ passing makes me consider my own mortality. Whether I die tomorrow or if I am lucky enough to live to 93, like Jones, I wonder how long people will speak my name after I am gone. What will I be remembered for? What impressions and contributions will I leave behind? It is impossible to predict but one thing is for sure. I am doing my best to give people something to talk about.
