Actor James Earl Jones – famous in part for being the voice of "Star Wars" villain Darth Vader and Disney's "Lion King" Mufasa - will be honored with a "Life Achievement Award" for being an actor who fosters the "finest ideals of the acting profession," the Screen Actors Guild said.
The Award will be given at the 15th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards which premieres live on TNT and TBS Sunday, Jan. 25, 2009.
"James Earl Jones' distinguished career on stage, in film, on television, in commercials and as a vocal presence without peer commands our admiration and respect. His long and quiet devotion to advancing literacy, the arts and humanities on a national and local scale deserves our appreciation. It is our honor to bestow the Guild's highest tribute on this extraordinary actor," SAG President Alan Rosenberg said in a statement.
Jones, 77 spent his childhood as a virtual mute because of a severe stuttering problem. Later on high school he overcame the problem with a strong love for reading.
"Through a love of reading, I was able to overcome my muteness and pursue a career in which my voice would be my most prominent asset," Jones said in a statement.
