Iconic actor James Earl Jones dies aged 93
American actor James Earl Jones died on Monday at the age of 93.
Jones, a longtime sufferer of diabetes, died at his home surrounded by family members, his agent, Barry McPherson, said.
No cause of death was provided.
Jones had a great physical presence on stage and television, as well as in movies, but he would have been a star even if his face was never seen because his voice had a career of its own. The resonating bass could instantly command respect – as with the sage father Mufasa in “The Lion King,” and many Shakespeare roles – or instill fear as the rasping Vader in the “Star Wars” films.
James Earl Jones was born on January 17, 1931, in Arkabutla, Mississippi. He faced significant challenges in his early life, including a severe stutter that rendered him nearly mute until he was 14 years old. His journey to becoming one of the most celebrated actors began when an English teacher encouraged him to read his poetry aloud, helping him regain his confidence in speaking.
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Jones’s career spanned over six decades and included notable performances on stage and screen. He made his Broadway debut in 1958 and gained prominence for his roles in productions such as “The Great White Hope,” for which he won a Tony Award. His film career took off with significant roles in movies like “Dr. Strangelove,” “Field of Dreams,” and “Coming to America.” However, he is perhaps best known for voicing the character Darth Vader in the Star Wars franchise, starting with the original film released in 1977.
Achievements
Throughout his illustrious career, Jones received numerous accolades, including three Tony Awards, two Emmy Awards, a Grammy Award for spoken word performance, and an honorary Oscar for lifetime achievement. In addition to his work in film and theater, he lent his distinctive voice to various projects, including Disney’s “The Lion King,” where he voiced Mufasa.
Jones’s contributions to the arts were recognized with several honors throughout his life. In 2002, he received a Kennedy Center Honor for his lifetime achievements in American culture. The Cort Theatre on Broadway was renamed the James Earl Jones Theatre in 2022 to honor his legacy.
Tributes
Following news of his death on Monday morning at home surrounded by family, tributes poured in from fellow actors and fans alike. Mark Hamill, who played Luke Skywalker alongside Jones’s Darth Vader, expressed heartfelt condolences on social media. Many others praised Jones for his unique talent and impact on cinema and theater.
His passing marks the end of an era for many fans who grew up with his iconic roles across various mediums.
