 Congratulations to Oprah Winfrey and James Earl Jones who received special Academy Awards on Saturday, November 12, 2011. They were both recognized for their exceptional contributions to the film industry and society. The black tie affair was held at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood, California.
Oprah Winfrey – Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award
Oprah Winfrey was presented with the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award for her outstanding humanitarian efforts and contributions to the movie industry. Through her private foundation (The Oprah Winfrey Foundation), she has provided millions of dollars for charitable causes around the world. Winfrey has built schools, homes and provided food, clothing and other necessities to needy people in multiple countries.
Oprah Winfrey was first nominated for an Academy Award in 1986 for her role as Sofia in “The Color Purple.” Since then, she has starred in and produced many films, including “The Great Debaters”, “Beloved” and “Their Eyes Were Watching God.”
James Earl Jones – Governors Honorary Academy Award for Lifetime Achievement
James Earl Jones was honored with the Governors Honorary Award for his lifetime achievement in the film industry. Jones has been acting for over 45 years and has appeared in (or provided the voice for) 180 movies during his career thus far. He has not only achieved acting excellence, but also has become famous for his voice, which is considered one of the most recognizable voices in the world. (One of his most famous voice roles was as Darth Vader in “Star Wars.”)
James Earl Jones was first nominated for a Best Actor Academy Award for his role as Jack Jefferson in the Black Classic Movie “The Great White Hope” in 1971. Since then he has starred in numerous films, including many familiar Black Classic Movies like “Claudine”, “Coming to America” and “Roots.”
Prestigious Honor
This prestigious honor from the Academy of Motion Pictures is a fitting tribute to Oprah Winfrey and James Earl Jones who are African-American living legends.
For more details about the award and the ceremony, please visit the Academy Awards website. You’ll find exclusive video and photo highlights from the awards ceremony.
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