Is James Earl Jones II related to James Earl Jones? The Truth Behind the Names

James Earl Jones is a legendary actor who has been praised for his versatile and distinguished performances on stage and screen. He is also known for his deep and powerful voice, which he lent to iconic characters such as Darth Vader in the Star Wars franchise and Mufasa in The Lion King. But what about James Earl Jones II, who also appears in movies and TV shows? Is he related to the famous actor, or is it just a coincidence that they share the same name?

The Family History of James Earl Jones

According to Wikipedia, James Earl Jones was born in Arkabutla, Mississippi, on January 17, 1931, to Ruth (née Connolly), a teacher and maid, and Robert Earl Jones, a boxer, butler and chauffeur. His father left the family before James Earl Jones was born, and he was raised by his grandparents in Michigan. He had a stuttering problem as a child, which he overcame through poetry and acting. He served in the United States Army during the Korean War before pursuing a career in acting.

James Earl Jones married actress Julienne Marie in 1968, but they divorced in 1972. He then married actress Cecilia Hart in 1982, and they had one son, Flynn Earl Jones, who is also an actor. Cecilia Hart died in 2016 from ovarian cancer.

The Career of James Earl Jones II

According to IMDb, James Earl Jones II is an actor and soundtrack performer who was born on August 22, 1974, in Chicago, Illinois. He is known for his roles in Breaking In (2018), Maybe I Do (2023) and Watch Dogs (2014). He has also appeared in TV shows such as Chicago Fire, Chicago Med and Empire. He has been nominated for the Equity Joseph Jefferson Award for his role in The Wiz at the Theatre at the Center in Chicago.

The Relationship Between James Earl Jones and James Earl Jones II

So, are these two actors related by blood or by name? The answer is neither. According to Stage & Candor, James Earl Jones II is not related to James Earl Jones at all. He is actually the third generation of his family to have the same name. His grandfather was named James Earl Jones Sr., his father was named James Earl Jones Jr., and he is named James Earl Jones II. He explained that his father added the “II” instead of “III” because he wanted to be different from his father.

James Earl Jones II also said that he never met James Earl Jones personally, but he admires him as an actor and as a role model. He said that he feels honored to share the name with such a legend, but he also tries to make his own mark in the industry.

Conclusion

James Earl Jones and James Earl Jones II are both talented actors who have made their names in the entertainment world. However, they are not related by blood or by name. They just happen to have the same name by coincidence. They both respect each other’s work and achievements, but they also have their own identities and careers.

Doms Desk

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