James Earl Jones will forever be known for that particular voice—the voice behind Star Wars villain Darth Vader. He also voiced King Mufasa in Disney’s animated feature The Lion King. As Jones died on Monday at the age of 93, here are a few things to know about him.
James Earl Jones Passed Away At 93
James Earl Jones. Image Credit: Universal Pictures
James Earl Jones, a celebrated actor recognized for his iconic deep voice in roles like Darth Vader, has passed away at the age of 93. His legacy in the entertainment industry spans decades, captivating audiences with his profound performances across film, television, and stage.
Jones’ death was confirmed by his agent, Barry McPherson, who shared that the actor died peacefully at his home in New York’s Hudson Valley on Monday morning. While the cause of death has not yet been disclosed, his departure has left an indelible mark on the industry and those who admired him.
In 1965, he became one of the first African American actors to gain widespread recognition on daytime television through his role in “As the World Turns.” This milestone marked the beginning of a long journey where he continually showcased his versatility and depth as an actor. Over the years, his powerful voice became synonymous with some of cinema’s most legendary characters.
“From the gentle wisdom of Mufasa to the menacing threat of Darth Vader, James Earl Jones gave voice to some of the greatest characters in cinema history,” said Bob Iger, chief executive officer of The Walt Disney Company, in a statement. “A celebrated stage actor with nearly 200 film and television credits to his name, the stories he brought to life with a uniquely commanding presence and a true richness of spirit have left an indelible mark on generations of audiences.”
James Earl Jones’ accomplishments were reflected in the many prestigious awards he garnered over his career. Among these accolades were two Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe, two Tony Awards, and a Grammy, alongside significant honors such as the National Medal of Arts and the Kennedy Center Honors. His impact on the performing arts community was further immortalized when a Broadway theater was renamed in his honor in 2022, solidifying his place in history as a true luminary of the stage and screen.
The Man Known For His Voice
James Earl Jones. Image Credit: Spero Dean Stamboulis and Aimee Ng
James Earl Jones, despite a remarkable career spanning nearly six decades, is most prominently recognized for his iconic voice, a distinct asset.
In the mid-1970s, the visionary creator of Star Wars, George Lucas, had initially cast David Prowse, a towering British actor, to embody Darth Vader in the black suit. However, Lucas felt that the role required a different voice to fully capture the character’s essence. This led to the involvement of Jones, whose delivery gave Star Wars some of its most unforgettable lines. A particularly notable moment came when he voiced Darth Vader’s revelation to Luke Skywalker, played by a young Mark Hamill: “I am your father.” The impact of this line has resonated through generations.
In 2019, Jones once again lent his voice to Mufasa in Disney’s live-action remake of The Lion King. His participation in this film was particularly special as he was the only actor from the original cast to reprise his role.
More recently, Jones became synonymous with another iconic line, this time for the news network CNN. His deep, commanding tone could be heard in the tagline “This is CNN,” infusing the statement with a sense of urgency and credibility that was impossible to ignore.
James Earl Jones was born on January 17, 1931, in Arkabutla, Mississippi. His early years saw him relocating to Michigan, where he struggled with a speech impediment. However, with the guidance and support of an encouraging teacher, he was able to overcome his stutter, eventually pursuing a degree in drama at the University of Michigan. His journey to stardom wasn’t immediate, and after serving in the Army, he moved to New York to follow his passion for acting.
Jones’ breakout moment came in 1970 with his performance in the Broadway play The Great White Hope. His portrayal of Jack Johnson, the first Black heavyweight boxing champion, was critically acclaimed, earning him an Academy Award nomination and propelling him to the forefront of the acting world.
On a personal note, Jones experienced the joys and trials of marriage twice. His first marriage was to Julienne Marie Hendricks, though the couple later divorced. In 1982, he found love again with actress Cecilia Hart, known for her work in the show Paris. Tragically, Hart passed away in 2016. The couple had one son together, Flynn Earl, born in 1983.
