'80s Movie Legend, Known as Voice of God, Turns 89

Morgan Freeman, the award-winning actor with the unmistakable voice behind some of cinema’s most iconic narration, is celebrating a major milestone.

Behind his numerous accolades, including an Academy Award and a Golden Globe Award, the A-lister is celebrated for being known as the “Voice of God” for his impeccably commanding narration style.

As the Hollywood star celebrates his 89th birthday, here’s a look into his career journey, from his breakthrough role in the 1980s to enduring performances that cemented his legacy in the entertainment industry.

Born on June 1, 1937, Freeman began his love for acting after joining school plays prior to enlisting in the U.S. Air Force in the mid-1950s.

It was after his military service that he decided to continue his passion, prompting him to move to Los Angeles and New York to try his luck.

After his works on Broadway, he had his on-screen breakthrough after joining the PBS educational show The Electric Company as Easy Reader.

The iconic role instantly made him one of the most recognizable faces in the 1970s, especially with the show’s popularity.

It was in the 1980s when Freeman transitioned to the big screen, appearing in more challenging roles that showcased his versatility.

His first major film was the crime drama Street Smart. The 1987 movie earned him his first Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for the role of Fast Black.

Since then, it put him on Hollywood’s top directors’ radar with back-to-back films like Driving Miss Daisy, Glory and Lean on Me in 1989.

In 2004, he took home his first Oscar after winning Best Supporting Actor for Million Dollar Baby.

Amid his impressive recognitions, one enduring title that has stuck to Freeman’s name is being called the “Voice of God.”

While his voice is so commanding that it has become universally recognized around the world, the A-lister himself said he never considered it something especially remarkable.

During his appearance on a late-night show, Jimmy Fallon asked if he thinks he has an amazing voice, Freeman immediately answered “No” and explained why he thought of this.

“It’s special to you. It ain’t special to me,” he said, but the host made reference to his iconic role in Bruce Almighty as well as his narration work in Our Planet, prompting cheers from the audience.

According to him, he studied vocal training at Los Angeles Community College under an instructor who worked on his “diction and voice,” where he learned to “drop” his voice “about an octave.”

Related: 88-Year-Old Morgan Freeman’s Latest TV Appearance Has Fans Noticing the Same Thing