James Earl Jones’ Absence Due to Illness May Lead to On Golden Pond Closing

A provisional closing notice has been posted for On Golden Pond, the Broadway revival of Ernest Thompson’s play starring James Earl Jones, who is recovering from pneumonia.

The actor began missing performances on June 15 and, under doctor’s orders, is still out of the show. The provisional closing has been set for June 26 while the producers wait to see if Jones will be well enough to return to the role of Norman Thayer by June 28; standby Charles Turner is currently playing the part.

Jones won Tony Awards for his performances in The Great White Hope and Fences, and was Tony-nominated for his work in On Golden Pond. He is considered to be the major draw for the revival, which co-stars Tony-winner Leslie Uggams and also features Linda Powell, Peter Francis James, Craig Bockhorn, and Alexander Mitchell. The production is directed by Leonard Foglia.

If the show does close following the Sunday matinee on June 26, it will have played 19 previews and 93 regular performances. In a review of the production for TheaterMania, Dan Bacalzo wrote, “Jones possesses a commanding stage presence. His deep, resonant voice helps to give Norman the imposing quality that makes others intimidated by him while his wry, deadpan delivery is comically endearing.”