Veteran actor James Earl Jones will be feted for his contributions to the stage at the American Theatre Wing gala next year (15).

The Star Wars star will be the guest of honour at the annual event on 28 September (15) in New York City.

Heather Hitchens, President of the American Theatre Wing, the organisation behind the Tony Awards, announced Jones' new accolade in a statement which reads: "From his humble beginnings in Michigan through his extensive career in New York and Los Angeles, James Earl Jones has continually championed the American theatre with his memorable performances and advocacy on behalf of the Wing.

"He embodies the definition of a working actor, and we are delighted to have the opportunity to honor and pay tribute to all that he has done to elevate the art form."

Jones made his debut on Broadway in 1957, and has appeared in numerous productions ever since, including two performances which earned him Tony Awards in 1969 and 1987.

Jones, who is currently starring in Broadway comedy You Can't Take It With You, follows this year's (14) recipient, Dame Angela Lansbury, with whom he starred in Driving Miss Daisy last year (13).