It’s a sad day for the geek community everywhere to hear of the passing of the legendary actor James Earl Jones, on August 28, 2023.
Jones was a prolific actor who appeared in hundreds of films, television shows, and stage productions. He was best known for his deep and resonant voice while voicing iconic characters such as Darth Vader in the Star Wars franchise and Mufasa in The Lion King.
James Earl Jones managed to live a remarkably long life, passing away at the age of 93. He was diagnosed with type-2 diabetes in his mid-60s. However, his resilience and dedication to managing his condition allowed him to enjoy a fulfilling existence for over two decades. Jones’s journey serves as an inspiring testament to the power of perseverance and effective healthcare in overcoming chronic illnesses.
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- James Earl Jones, known for roles in Field of Dreams, The Lion King, and Star Wars, died at the age of 93.
- Jones was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in his mid-60s which he managed to improve in his later years.
- Although known for his deep, commanding voice, Jones had to overcame a severe stutter, which he had through much of his early life.
His Early Days
Jones began his acting career in the 1950s. He quickly became known for his stage presence and versatility. He won three Tony Awards for his performances in The Great White Hope, Fences, and The Gin Game.
In the 1970s, Jones began to appear in films. He had a supporting role in the classic gangster film The Godfather. He also starred in the blaxploitation films The Super Cops and Coffy.
In 1977, Jones provided the voice for Darth Vader in the original Star Wars film. His deep and menacing voice immediately made Vader one of the most iconic villains in cinema history. Jones would go on to voice Vader in all of the subsequent Star Wars films.
Apart from Star Wars, Mr. James Earl Jones lent his iconic voice to Mufasa in Disney’s animated movie, “The Lion King“. His performance as the wise and noble king was considered one of the best voice acting performances of all time.
In the 1990s and 2000s, Jones continued to appear in films and television shows. He also provided the voice for a number of animated characters.
Some of Jones’ other notable film voice-over credits include:
- The Matrix Reloaded
- The Incredibles
- Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith
- Rogue One: A Star Wars Story
James Earl Jones, a true legend of the entertainment industry – a highly respected actor who was admired by his peers and fans alike. He was a gifted actor who made a significant contribution to American culture.
