James Earl Jones, Iconic Voice of Darth Vader, Dies at 93
James Earl Jones, the acclaimed American actor best known for voicing Darth Vader in the *Star Wars* franchise, has died at the age of 93.
He passed away early Monday morning, surrounded by his family, according to his agent, Barry McPherson.
Jones’s impressive career spanned decades and included roles in numerous films such as *Field of Dreams*, *Coming to America*, *Conan the Barbarian*, and *The Lion King*.
However, he is most famously recognized for giving Darth Vader his distinctive, gravelly voice in the original *Star Wars* film released in 1977, as well as in its sequels, *The Empire Strikes Back* and *Return of the Jedi*.
Mark Hamill, who portrayed Luke Skywalker, paid tribute to Jones on social media, posting “RIP Dad” alongside a broken heart emoji.
Many others in the entertainment industry expressed their condolences. Actor LeVar Burton remarked that “there will never be another of his particular combinations of graces,” while Colman Domingo acknowledged Jones as a “master of our craft.”
Throughout his career, Jones won three Tony Awards, two Emmys, a Grammy, and received an honorary Oscar in 2011 for lifetime achievement.
He was also a trailblazer in 1971, becoming only the second Black man nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor, following Sidney Poitier.
In addition to his film work, Jones made significant contributions to television, starring in *Roots: The Next Generation* and winning an Emmy for *Gabriel’s Fire*. His voice was also featured in *The Simpsons* and early episodes of *Sesame Street*.
Jones’s impact on cinema and theater will be remembered, as he leaves behind a legacy of extraordinary performances and unforgettable characters.
