SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Actor and wrestler Mr. T has a long-lasting impact on the entertainment industry. Now, he is being inducted in the Illinois Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame. Â
"I say I thank God, thank you Lord for using me," said the legendary Mr. T.Â
Humble, thankful, strong-minded, these are values Mr. T has carried throughout his career. He hopes they will have a positive influence on younger generations. Known for his tough demeanor and catchy phrase, "I pity the fool!" his character was on television screens across the globe. Since the 1980s, he has been giving motivating advice, with a tone of tough love. Â
"I tell kids nowadays, don't let nobody play you. I pity the fool because you've been played to let somebody make you think to be cool you got to snatch somebody purse or rob somebody," he said. Â
Illinois Broadcasters Association President Dennis Lyle said awarding Mr. T is long overdue. The criteria to be inducted into the Hall of Fame include major success from an Illinois native or major success that has been fostered in Illinois for years.Â
"He is a wonderful man, and a perfect choice," Lyle said. Â
Reflecting on his journey, Mr. T recalls being invited to the White House to help promote the "Say No to Drugs" movement. He thanks his mother for instilling strong values, like prayer in his life. Â
"I try not to get caught up in the fame stuff. I want to keep my feet on the ground and my head towards the heaven," Mr. T said. Â
This accomplishment is not the end of his "pitying the fool", Mr. T said he will continue promoting positive choices and being a helping hand to communities.
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