Legendary actor James Earl Jones has been a force in the acting world for more than six decades. Jones is a veteran of the stage and the screen, starring in such projects as Othello, The Great White Hope, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, ClaudineThe Sandlot, Coming to America, Star Wars, Cry the Beloved Country, and The Lion King. 

Because of his amazing career, the Tony Awards have decided to honor the actor with a special Lifetime Achievement Award in theatre at this year’s ceremony.

Heather Hitchens, President of the American Theatre Wing, and Charlotte St. Martin, President of The Broadway League, explained why the organization picked the acting legend.

“James Earl Jones has given us a lifetime of unforgettable performances on the stage, and his voice resonates through generations,” she explained. “His legacy is unmatched and his work has had an impact not only on Broadway but across the entire galaxy!”

The 71st annual Tony Awards will be hosted by Kevin Spacey on June 11 at the Radio City Music Hall. It will be broadcast live on CBS.