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May 31, 2010
Posted: 1546 GMT

With one of the most distinctive and recognizable voices in Hollywood, actor Morgan Freeman is no stranger to the big screen and Hollywood success.

Morgan Freeman is your Connector of the Day.
Morgan Freeman is your Connector of the Day.

Born in 1937 in Memphis Tennessee, Freeman had his acting debut at the young age of only nine-years-old, playing the lead in his school play.

From there, his acting experience only grew. At the age of 12, Freeman won a statewide drama competition and even hosted his very own radio show from his local high school.

After performing in a number of other school plays, Freeman was offered a partial drama scholarship from Jackson State University, but ultimately turned it down to take a job as a mechanic with the U.S. Air Force.

Although Freeman had a brief absence from the acting world, he quickly returned and ultimately made his off-Broadway debut in 1967 and his Broadway debut in 1968.

During the 1970's and 1980's, Freeman acted in a number of films and television shows, but it wasn't until his role in "Driving Miss Daisy" that he became a bona fide Hollywood celebrity.

Freeman went on to have leading roles in some of America's most memorable films including "Shawshank Redemption," "Seven," "Bruce Almighty," and even narrated one of the most successful documentaries of all time - "March of the Penguins."

In 2004, Freeman won an Academy Award for his supporting role in "Million Dollar Baby."

Today, Freeman is working with the Science Channel on a new show called "Through the Wormhole" which is a new series on outer space.

Filed under: Connector of the day


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Jurgen R. Brul   May 31st, 2010 4:17 pm ET

Hello Morgan Porterfield Freeman junior and CNN friends,

I would like an answer from Morgan Porterfield Freeman junior on the following questions:
- Why is your latest show called "Through the Wormhole"?
- What is your opinion on live on the planet Mars?
- What is your opinion on aliens?
- As an American actor you played Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela in the movie Invictus,
WHO will win the South Africa World Cup?
- What can we expect from you in 2010?
- How are you inspiring people all over the world to make our world a Better Healthier and Beautiful Place?

I am awaiting Morgan Porterfield Freeman junior’s replies.

Greetings,
Jurgen R. Brul
Hometown: Paramaribo
Country: Suriname
Latin-American

Chuko Kpolugbo   June 1st, 2010 3:30 am ET

Hello Morgan Freeman!

I would like to know what it is like having one of the most recognized voices on earth today? And since you are narrating a show on outer space, have you ever considered narrating a short history of earth and broadcasting it via radio to our extra-terrestrial brothers?

Chuko
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Canada

Raphael Albert   June 1st, 2010 9:58 am ET

Mr Freeman, my questions are:
What are the greatest challenges a rising black actor can face in Hollywood?
What is the greatest challenge you have ever faced when you were beginning as an actor?
What is the most challenging role you have ever played as an actor?

Raphael Albert.
From Lagos, Nigeria.

Robert Anderson   June 1st, 2010 12:02 pm ET

First of all I'd just like to say how awesome and legendary Morgan Freeman is. Then I'd like to ask a question. You play many roles of very influential people, such as God and Nelson Mandela. How do you prepare for these roles? Thanks

Robert Anderson
Planet Earth

Janice Russo Bratislava, Slovak Republic   June 1st, 2010 12:22 pm ET

Dear Morgan,
Have you completely recovered from the injuries you sustained in the automobile accident? When you are approached by your fans, does it annoy you? I often wonder if the price "stars" pay for fame and fortune is worth living in a fishbowl. How do deal with your privacy being invaded by fans, paparazzi, gossip rags, etc.? Are you aware of the enomorous pleasure your acting has painted on the landscape of life? Watching you perform is like meeting an old friend. Your acting gifts are those of an Ambassador of Reasoning and Gentility. Thank you for making me think deeply about the situations you have tackled on screen.

Heathcliffe Dyba   June 1st, 2010 12:27 pm ET

Hello Mr Morgan Freeman,

What questions can you ask one of the world's greatest actors if you had the chance? There are simply too many

* Which cast of your many movies did you find the most fun to be a part of?
* What do you most enjoy about making movies and being an actor?
* Who would win in an arm wrestle between you and Mr Clint Eastwood?
* What do you think we can all do to help make our world a much more friendly and peaceful place?

Heathcliffe Dyba (a huge Morgan Freeman fan)
From Manchester, UK

P.S I absolutely love your role in Deep Impact!!!

cqengland   June 1st, 2010 12:34 pm ET

I learned to speak English while watching Easy Reader and the rest of the Electric Company gang. I have read that you were not enthusiastic about the project, although it was a huge success. All of these years later, how did that show, and the fantastic group of people you worked with influence where you went in the rest of your career?

Kristi   June 1st, 2010 12:41 pm ET

I use to love you when I was a kids watching the electric company. Are you the only individual from that show to become one of the biggest stars of all times? You are an amazing actor Mr. Freeman!

Derrick Chapman   June 1st, 2010 12:48 pm ET

What is your opinion of the CBS television series "Amos and Andy?" Do you think it denegrated black Americans or was it no more objectionable than "Good Times," etc? It did offer black actors a rare opportunity to play parts other than servant roles.

Federico Furzan   June 1st, 2010 12:59 pm ET

Mr. Freeman, let me just say you are absolutely mesmerizing...

My question was regarding your career. In your opinion, what's the best character you've played?

Jerri   June 1st, 2010 1:49 pm ET

Hi Mr Morgan, Are you the same person as in your role in the film tittled LEAN ON ME. Is my best film, i watch it on and on,is simply fantastic. More grease to your elbow Brother.....

joan b   June 1st, 2010 1:54 pm ET

mr. freeman
you are the great actor of all time.your voice
makes people stop in there tracks.what ever
you do on the silver screen.i watch for i know
it is well done what ever shows you are in it
i watch.again you and clint eastwood together
are the best a great fan god bless you and keep you safe

Kunle   June 1st, 2010 2:27 pm ET

First of all,I want to say I've enjoyed all your movies I've seen,my first being Shawshank Redemption and I think you have a great voice.My question is,you played the part of God in both 'Bruce Almighty' and 'Evan Almighty',what are your opinions about God and religion, Christianity in particular?

Kunle
Northampton,England.

Keira   June 1st, 2010 2:31 pm ET

Hello,

I'd like to know the following:

– Who do you think would win in a "voiceover showdown", you or James Earl Jones?

– I saw a documentary in which you offered to pay for a high school prom in Mississippi if the prom was integrated. This year there was another prom controversy involving gay teen Constance McMillan. Why do you think there are such strong feelings about diversity in MS? What do you think is the key to promoting diversity and equality?

– Do you think more resources should be invested in exploring outer space or should we spend more time discovering resources we already have here on earth?

Thank you!

Keira
NY

claudia diaz   June 1st, 2010 2:43 pm ET

MR. FREEMAN

WHICH FICTIONAL CHARECTER FROM LITERATURE WOULD YOU LIKE TO PLAY IN A MOVIE AND WHICH ON THE STAGE?

CLAUDIA
QUERETARO, MEXICO

Sara   June 1st, 2010 2:44 pm ET

Happy Birthday. Keep doing your excellent work

A huge fan!

Don Halpern   June 1st, 2010 3:38 pm ET

Mr. Freeman, you are one my favorite actors. Thank you for all the great work you have shared with us. Many years ago I worked for Smith + Newphew in Memphis, TN. I worked there between 1991 and 1998. There was a gentlemen I used to see that looked and sounded like you.. You have a very distinctive voice. I asked him many times if he was related to you, each time he denied knowing anything about you. The resemblance was amazing. Does this mean anything to you or did I just re-affirm the notion that everyone has a twin? Keep up the great work and thanks for your time.

glenn martin   June 1st, 2010 4:45 pm ET

Goodday to you Sir, I met you once in the projection booth of the Old Port of Montreal, Canada. I am a friend of Jay Baruchel, also from Montreal and am big fan of yours.
If you could influenece your presidents foreigh and / or domestic policy, what issues would like to see Barack Obama adress.

thanks

Amaryllis Martina   June 1st, 2010 4:49 pm ET

Mr.Freeman you are one of my favorite actors!!.
You are the great actor of all the time!

I hope you will visit Curacao Neth.Antlles (Caribbean).
God bless you!

Name:Amaryllis Martina
From: Curacao Netherlands Antilles
Caribbean

Aaron David   June 1st, 2010 4:52 pm ET

Mr Freeman,

How did it feel to play Nelson Mandela in Invictus? Did you get to meet the Great Madiba?

Wishing many more successful years,

Aaron

December Dickerson   June 1st, 2010 4:54 pm ET

Dear Morgan Freeman,

Hello, my name is December. I enjoy watching all of your movies. Your life has been rewarding as well as fulfilling throughout your career in film making and in the military. Thank you for all that you do.

My question is: When is your next interview? Are you going to do any new movies? Would you be willing to do a meet and greet with the military with some celebrity friends?

Respectfully,

Miss Dickerson

Regie Joseph   June 1st, 2010 5:26 pm ET

Hai Morgan,
Did you meet Mr. Nelson Mandela before playing his character, and how much time did you spend with him?

Janece   June 1st, 2010 5:53 pm ET

I had the incredible pleasure of meeting you in Spanish Town on Virgin Gorda in March 1990, while you were on your sailboat with a couple of friends. Being from Memphis, I couldn't resist coming over to meet and speak with you. Thank you for being so gracious and kind enough to give a few minutes to a very curious 16-year-old at the time!

At the time you "fussed" at me for having gone to see "Steel Magnolias" in the theater instead of "Driving Miss Daisy," and I promised I would see "Daisy" very soon. Well, I did, and I've seen it countless times since then. I try not to miss any of your movies anymore. You're just that wonderful to watch on the screen!

So, do you ever get the chance to relax and get down to the Islands very much anymore?

Take care!!
Janece Sterling
Memphis, TN

mel horvitz   June 1st, 2010 6:00 pm ET

I am a fellow alumni at LACC. Do you have a favorite memory of the school?

Christina   June 1st, 2010 7:07 pm ET

Dear Morgan Freeman,

Are you happy? I am a young fan of yours and I was wondering if you were happy, with all your success and wealthiness :)

Sincerely yours,
Christina

fred hall   June 1st, 2010 7:41 pm ET

Dear Mr. Freeman:
I admire your talent and personality greatly. I have most of your movies and look forward to new releases.
Which of your movies are you proudest of?
Which of your personal actions are you proudest of?
What doi you enjoy most in life?

Charma Ellis   June 1st, 2010 7:48 pm ET

Hi how are you. Have you ever been to Jamaica? Would you visit and contribute to a charity if asked to?

Bill   June 1st, 2010 8:00 pm ET

Dear Mr. Freeman,

In all the years of making movies, what specific situation or event has moved you the most?

Karen   June 1st, 2010 8:12 pm ET

Hi,
What are YOUR all-time favorite movies?
And what's your favorite flavor of ice cream?

Elias   June 1st, 2010 8:18 pm ET

I’m an actor from Quito, Ecuador.

My dream has always been to make it to Hollywood, but its seems an impossible one being born in a third world reality and in a country where there is no film industry. What would you have done if you would have had to face the same reality in your artistic life? Thanks

Nick   June 1st, 2010 9:12 pm ET

What is your biggest weakness?

Trevor   June 1st, 2010 9:35 pm ET

Why was your part in Brubaker so short? You should have demanded some extra lines. Had the chance to do something other than yell and clap. Don't ever let Robert Redford take the stage like that. Yours was the only performance worth watching.

Margarida   June 1st, 2010 10:17 pm ET

Dear Mr. Freeman,
First of all, I just wanted to congratulate you on your great career as an actor and thank you for working on such wonderful movies, that allow us to dream...
I wanted to ask you when and how did you know that you wanted to be an actor and work in the film industry?? What lead you to it??
I love cinema and will be going to NY in August to study literature and film studies in college. Thank you :)
Margarida

yousef   June 1st, 2010 10:31 pm ET

Hi Mr Morgan
Did you face a problem in getting a roll in any picture because of your skin color or as being a black actor

Thanks and best regards

Yousef Elamri
CEO of CIT

toddsaed   June 1st, 2010 11:42 pm ET

Why did they not mention Deep IMpact, truly memorable.?
Do you have an open mike night for blues harp players at
your club? What would you suggest to Bias and me on ways
to break into the business, and to those who are not comfortable politicking or self promoting? Who are the actors who have little
ego, are down to earth, and approachable? Would you consider Raiders of the LOst Ark andall time favorite, and does Shawshank Redemption earn you the most attention from fans? WIll you choose to live with the aliens when we connect , or stay at home?" Should the aliens be required to have a green card in Arizona?

toddsaed   June 1st, 2010 11:47 pm ET

What is God"s name for the star RIgel in the constellation
Orion? What was your favoirte movie that you made?

LH   June 2nd, 2010 1:53 am ET

Hello,

Tell me your motto which guide you in life, what would you advise those they pursue their dream?

steve   June 2nd, 2010 1:57 am ET

Morgan,

You are the best actor in all of Hollywood. You cross gender lines. You are a gift to all of us.

I was wondering, what is your favorite movie, and what is your favorite movie that you were in????

Liz   June 2nd, 2010 2:03 am ET

Dear Mr. Freeman,

You have one of the most calming and pleasant voices I've ever heard in my life. I could listen to you speak for hours, you're a wonderful narrator and a heartfelt actor, it is truly an absolute joy following your career throughout the years.

My questions are:
a) When you look back on your life, do you ever regret not doing something? Was there a path untaken so to speak?

b) What are the ambitions and goals you wish to fulfill at this stage of your life and career?

I wish you continued success and above all health and happiness. You are one of those extraordinary people that project serenity and joy without even knowing it.
Thank you for that (-:

christopher davis   June 2nd, 2010 2:11 am ET

hi i am from Barbados and i just wanted to say Mr Freeman it's always a joy to watch any movie that you are in,,you are an excellent actor > the academy should of given you more awards you do deserve them>>hope you make plenty more movies<<thanks

Maño   June 2nd, 2010 3:12 am ET

Dear Mr Freeman,

Beyond your histrionic attributes and your beautiful voice, I admire most, the insightful approach and the meaning you give to each word you express. Your narrations are very visuals. To some extent, your interpretation is the message.

I wonder, how do you get to the peaceful state of mind that come across in your deliveries. Are you a religious person? Do you activate any preset secret code for each state of mide?

God bless you, and thak you for sharing your gift with us.

Sincerely yours,

Manuel Torres
San Juan, Puerto Rico

CAMPBELL   June 2nd, 2010 3:25 am ET

Scotsman living in Thailand:

What effect did Ray Charles have on modern day african americans. Would BO be president if it were not for him and his ilk?

Sherry Lind   June 2nd, 2010 4:00 am ET

My son received his Eagle Scout in December and I mailed you a request for a congratulatory letter for him in October. He never received any response. Would you be able to send a congratulatory letter to him. He and his buddies used to have "Morgan Freeman" night at the movies (rentals) at our house during their senior year of HS. They are all very big fans. Thank you.

Stuart   June 2nd, 2010 4:23 am ET

Hi Mr. Freeman,

I am a 25 year old fan from San Diego. To me, you have the most iconic voice in America, and I was wondering who you feel has an iconic voice?

Thank you.

Sayan Mitra   June 2nd, 2010 4:46 am ET

Dear Sir,
What is your favourite brand of cars?

Sayan Mitra,
Kolkata,
West Bengal,
INDIA.

Paul Lowe   June 2nd, 2010 6:30 am ET

I live in Cologne Germany.
Mr. Morgan, does the thought of being predestined ever occur to you.
Not that everything you do is predestined, but that some major things in your life probably were. Your resemblance to Nelson Mandela, was it by chance? Mr. Mandela was destined for greatness, and you portrayed him excellently. It was like a "tailor-made" performance.

Rommel Esteban   June 2nd, 2010 6:34 am ET

Did you ever consider directing movies? Is that something that interest you and plan to do in the future?

From Rommel in Penang, Malaysia

Paul Lowe   June 2nd, 2010 7:59 am ET

I live in Cologne Germany.
Mr. Freeman, does the thought of being predestined ever occur to you.
Your resemblance to Mr. Nelson Mandela, who is a man of greatness, – do you think it was by chance or predestined? Thanks.

Colin Glassborow, Albury, NSW, Australia.   June 2nd, 2010 10:18 am ET

Hi Morgan, I really love the power of your work. Your manner is that of being humble in your movies, and I guess that is what your personal lifestyle is. Congratulations on all of your achievements, so far.

Simple question...when are you coming back to visit us in Australia?

Kenneth Sullivan   June 2nd, 2010 10:35 am ET

Mr. Freeman,

I am a fan of yours and would like to know your opinion on Christianity.

Here are a few questions:

Do you believe in Jesus Christ as your lord and Saviour?

Are you born again?

Is Jesus Christ the lord of your life?

Thank you for your time and I will pray for you.

God bless you

Sincerely,

Kenneth Sullivan

Inchon, Republic of Korea

Samuel Weeks   June 2nd, 2010 11:04 am ET

HI Morgan
You have one of the unique voices in Hollywood. I'd like to know how you think your voice has impacted on your career?

Patty T   June 2nd, 2010 11:06 am ET

Mr. Freeman,
I am wondering who was your insperation for the character you played in Driving Miss Daisy? You talked and acted so much like my Grandfather who was from Oklahoma it was unreal. I have enjoyed your work throughout the years...Thanks for putting in such a beautiful effort into your work.
Patty, OKC, Oklahoma

Rose S. From Manila   June 2nd, 2010 11:14 am ET

Hello Mr. Freeman (or should I say Morgan?)!

You've had to fill big shoes in some of the roles you've played in the past, among which include the (first!) African-American U.S. president and Nelson Mandela– and who could forget?– God.

Great iconic figures– how do you respond when you get offered such roles? How close–or far–are they from the real you? Any unhealthy superiority complexes you've developed over the years playing these icons–or worse, any insecurities that have popped up?

Thanks, and cheers,

Rose S. from Manila

lee   June 2nd, 2010 11:15 am ET

Mr. Freeman,
To hear your voice just enough to make my heart melt!! i just love your voice, you are a true natural actor! keep it up mr. Freeman.

Super Rog   June 2nd, 2010 12:40 pm ET

My favorite movie of yours is “Redemption.” It says volumes about who you are. With every movie you make you interject the persona of calm and cool. It must come from somewhere in your life. Could it be from all your sailing experience? The dictionary defines sailing as seemingly effortless motion. That only part of the time. The other time spent on the water is making good decisions in times of peril. I’d crew with you any day. BTW, you would have made a great fighter pilot.

Sultan Ameer from Karachi, Pakistan   June 2nd, 2010 4:28 pm ET

Hello Mr. Freeman, huge fan. Name two directors, one from past and one currently working, you wish or want to work with.

Ademola   June 3rd, 2010 8:39 pm ET

Hi Mr Freeman. Have you ever tried to find out where your ancestral origin is? ...i mean which particular country in African did you descend from?

baggio joseph emma   June 8th, 2010 8:05 am ET

MR freeman i would like to know the time you joined acting how easy or how hard was it . the time of racism a black man come up from no were i would honorably say thank you and keep the good spirit baggio joseph emma kampala uganda

Vern Holybee   June 10th, 2010 3:30 am ET

Mr. Freeman,
I have had experiences that proved to me there is a god and he put into every human being a part of his self. One of these items is what we call a soul. The other part that he put into each of us is the "subconscious" mind through which we talk to him and he talks to us as well we can talk to other souls and they can talk to us. I will not go into any more detail unless it is requested.

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