Beloved actor and narrator Morgan Freeman recently shed light on the mystery behind his distinctive gold hoop earrings in an Instagram post. The 85-year-old icon revealed a surprising reason for wearing them, connecting it to an old-fashioned sailor tradition. Freeman explained, “They’re worth just enough for someone to buy me a coffin,” highlighting their connection to a maritime practice where sailors wore earrings as a financial preparation for an unexpected death at sea.

The historical context of sailors and pirates donning earrings is intriguing. These accessories, whether made of silver or gold, served as a form of financial readiness for funeral expenses in case of death at sea. Pirates and sailors also used hoop earrings practically—hanging wax pieces from them to fashion makeshift earplugs during cannon firing.

Freeman’s revelation not only demystifies his choice of jewelry but also offers a glimpse into the historical and practical aspects of a tradition that adds a dark yet fascinating undertone to his iconic gold hoop earrings.