President Biden is paying tribute to James Earl Jones, saying he not only admired his accomplishments as an actor, but for their shared experience of overcoming a stutter.
The legendary performer, known for his roles in films including "Star Wars" and "Field of Dreams," died Monday at 93.
In a Tuesday statement, Biden recalled one of the last times he saw Jones in person at Ford's Theatre in Washington a decade ago.
"[Jones] was being honored with the Lincoln Medal for his exemplary character and accomplishments on film and stage. I admired him for something else as well, something we both had in common — overcoming a childhood stutter to find our voice for something bigger than ourselves," Biden said.
The 81-year-old president has spoken publicly about his childhood stutter over the years, calling it the "the only handicap that people still laugh about."
In his homage to Jones, Biden said, "His legendary voice boomed wherever it was heard, an instrument and imprint that reverberated in the hearts of audiences worldwide. And we've all heard it."
"Through iconic characters, film, stage, commercials, radio, and more, his voice carried a sense of grace and dignity that commanded respect and demanded to be heard. His roles made us stop, stayed with us, and inspired us to reflect on everything from race and power, good and evil, to our place in the world," Biden said of Jones.
Calling him "one of the greatest actors of our time," Biden extended condolences to Jones's family and "everyone he inspired and who he will continue to inspire as his voice echoes for the ages."
