Internet can't keep calm as James Earl Jones gets nominated for Congressional Gold Medal on Star Wars Day

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Hollywood icon James Earl Jones, a constituent of New York’s 17th Congressional District, was nominated for the Congressional Gold Medal by GOP Representative Mike Lawler on Saturday, May 4, also known as "Star Wars Day".

The date of the announcement was very fitting as Jones is famous for voicing the character of Darth Vader in the 'Star Wars' franchise.

Mike Lawler's statement and Jones' response to the nomination

"James Earl Jones shattered racial barriers, served our country in the United States Army and warmed the hearts of hundreds of millions with his countless roles from the theater stage to the movie stage,” stated the Congressman of his nominee, according to the New York Post.

"While we may have disagreed on his participation in the Empire’s quest to build multiple Death Stars, I am thankful to represent him in Congress and look forward to awarding him with this great honor. Who says Darth Vader can’t be the good guy for once?” he asked.

The 93-year-old thespian responded to the news of receiving the nation’s highest civilian distinction by stating, "As a devoted fan of history, I’m deeply honored to receive an award that dates back to America’s founding and over recent years, has increasingly recognized lesser-known individuals whose courage and perseverance extends to many areas of our society."

“I hope this honor will underscore the importance of the performing arts to our culture — and our future as a nation. On a more personal note, I want to thank Congressman Lawler and his staff for initiating this honor," he added.

Lawler's bill has been co-sponsored by many other legislators who have long been fans of Jones, including Rep Marc Molinaro (R-NY), who shared, "There’s no Luke Skywalker (my favorite character) without Darth Vader, and no Darth Vader without the genius of James Earl Jones. He’s truly an icon who deserves this recognition for his tremendous acting career and work to break down racial barriers.”

Passing out from the University of Michigan in the 1950s, Jones has been a critically acclaimed actor both on Broadway and the silver screen, with movies such as 'Dr Strangelove', 'Coming to America', 'Field of Dreams', and 'The Hunt for Red October' under his belt. His voice acting credit famously includes the role of Mufasa from 'The Lion King' as well.

Internet rejoices as James Earl Jones was nominated for Congressional Gold Medal

Netizens applauded the news of Jones being awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, as the following comments on the outlet's website demonstrate.

"So well deserved, longtime coming," wrote a reader.

"Impressive, most impressive," quipped another, quoting Darth Vader.

"Great actor, great voice and from what I know is he has something most people lack, CLASS," stated a third.

"Well deserved, Mr. Jones," mentioned a fourth.

"May the fourth be with Mr Jones!" exclaimed a fifth.

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.