James Earl Jones, one of the most distinguished actors in Hollywood, was not just celebrated for his commanding presence on stage and screen but also for his profound personal life, particularly his 34-year marriage to Cecilia Hart. Their love story, which spanned over three decades, was marked by companionship, mutual respect, and shared creativity.
The Beginning: Meeting Cecilia Hart on “Paris”
James Earl Jones first met his future wife, Cecilia Hart, on the set of the short-lived TV police procedural, Paris, which aired from 1979 to 1980. In this series, Jones played Detective Captain Woody Paris, while Hart portrayed Sergeant Stacey Erickson. Though the show did not last long, it was the start of something far more enduring—their partnership. Jones, who had previously been married to Julienne Marie Hendricks from 1968 to 1972, found a lasting connection with Hart.
The couple’s chemistry on-screen eventually translated into real life, and they married in 1982 at the United Nations chapel in New York City. That same year, they welcomed their son, Flynn Earl Jones. According to Jones, Flynn was conceived on their wedding night, a testament to the magical bond that existed between the two.
A Marriage Rooted in Mutual Support
Throughout their 34 years of marriage, James Earl Jones consistently praised Cecilia Hart for being his rock and source of grounding in the often glitzy and fast-paced world of show business. Jones once remarked in an interview with The New York Times that Hart “did not seem to take me seriously at all, which meant I could relax and be myself with her.” Her humor and light-hearted approach to life allowed the legendary actor to feel at ease amidst the pressures of his career.
Their relationship was also deeply collaborative, both personally and professionally. The couple appeared together in the Broadway production of Othello in 1982, solidifying their shared passion for the arts. Jones often spoke about how Hart’s influence extended beyond their personal life and into his professional decisions.
For instance, it was Hart who persuaded him to take on the role of Terence Mann in Field of Dreams—a movie that has become iconic, particularly because of the monologue that Jones delivered about baseball’s timeless impact. “That was special,” he said about the film, crediting his wife for encouraging him to do it.
Private Life Away from the Spotlight
While they were often seen together on red carpets, James Earl Jones and Cecilia Hart preferred to keep their personal life relatively private. They resided in Dutchess County, New York, where they could retreat from the public eye and enjoy a quiet, family-oriented life. Jones credited his wife for keeping him balanced, often saying that she helped him stay connected to the simple things amidst the glitter of Hollywood.
In a 2014 interview with the Washington Post, Jones opened up about their family’s daily life, highlighting how rest, a good diet, and moderate exercise helped him stay healthy. He humorously recalled meeting Hart’s parents and asking for their approval to marry her, quipping that the only challenge in marrying her was having to stop flirting with her mother.
A Heartbreaking Loss: Cecilia Hart’s Passing
Tragedy struck in 2016 when Cecilia Hart passed away at the age of 68 after a battle with ovarian cancer. Her death marked the end of a beautiful chapter in Jones’ life, and he honored her memory publicly. At the 2017 Tony Awards, when accepting a Special Tony for Lifetime Achievement, Jones gave a touching tribute to his wife.
“I want to thank my wife Ceci for being such a wonderful companion in my life and in my work,” he said. He also thanked her for being the co-producer of their son Flynn and for her dazzling presence on the red carpet.
Even after her death, Jones continued to speak fondly of his late wife, reflecting on how her influence and companionship shaped both his personal life and his career. Their marriage was a rare example of a long-lasting and successful partnership in the entertainment industry, filled with love, laughter, and mutual respect.
Conclusion: The Legacy of James Earl Jones and Cecilia Hart’s Love
James Earl Jones and Cecilia Hart’s marriage was a testament to the power of love, support, and shared passions. Throughout their 34 years together, they built a life filled with mutual respect and admiration, both in their personal and professional lives. Hart’s influence on Jones was profound, and even after her death, her memory lives on through his reflections and the stories he shares about their life together.
Their love story, while private in many ways, continues to inspire those who hear it, reminding us of the beauty of lasting companionship and the importance of finding someone who allows you to be yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long were James Earl Jones and Cecilia Hart married?
James Earl Jones and Cecilia Hart were married for 34 years, from 1982 until her death in 2016.
2. How did James Earl Jones and Cecilia Hart meet?
They met while working on the short-lived TV series Paris in 1979, where Jones played a detective, and Hart played a sergeant.
3. Did James Earl Jones and Cecilia Hart have any children?
Yes, they had one son, Flynn Earl Jones, who was born the same year they got married, 1982.
4. What role did Cecilia Hart play in James Earl Jones’ career?
Cecilia Hart was instrumental in many of Jones’ career decisions. She encouraged him to take on the role of Terence Mann in Field of Dreams, which became an iconic part of his filmography.
5. How did James Earl Jones honor his wife after her passing?
Jones gave a heartfelt tribute to Cecilia Hart during the 2017 Tony Awards, thanking her for being a wonderful companion in both his personal and professional life.