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Variety
James Earl Jones Remembered by ‘Star Wars’ Co-Star Mark Hamill and More: ‘RIP Dad’
By Jack Dunn,
2 hours ago
Hollywood is mourning the death of one of its most recognizable voices, James Earl Jones, who died Monday morning at age 93. He gave life to “Star Wars” villain Darth Vader and “The Lion King’s” Mufasa, starred in “Field of Dreams,” “Conan the Barbarian” and many more films and shows, plus earned the prestigious EGOT honor in his career.
Mark Hamill, who played Luke Skywalker opposite Jones’ Vader in “Star Wars,” took to X (formally Twitter) to pay his respects to his longtime co-star.
Bob Iger, the CEO of Disney, shared a message via the Disney Company’s official Instagram in remembrance of Jones’ work, writing, “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. 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. On behalf of all of us at Disney, we extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.”
LeVar Burton, who starred alongside Jones in the TV movie “Guyana Tragedy: The Story of Jim Jones,” paid tribute on X, writing, “James Earl Jones… there will never be another of his particular combination of graces.”
“Sing Sing” star Colman Domingo expressed deep gratitude following Jones’ passing, posting a picture from Jones’ youth and writing, “Thank you dear James Earl Jones for everything. A master of our craft. We stand on your shoulders. Rest now. You gave us your best.”
Oscar-winning director Barry Jenkins shared a brief but deeply heartfelt message on his socials, writing on X, “Forever and always,” accompanied by a picture of a young Jones. Jenkins directed the upcoming Disney film, “Mufasa: The Lion King,” which follows the early days of young Mufasa and Scar.
Lydia Cornell, who appeared with Jones in her debut film, the 1982 horror thriller “Bloodtide,” took to X to remember her co-star, writing, “Oh no!! I can’t believe it!! I thought he was going to live forever. My co-star from my first movie. Rest in peace James Earl Jones.”
“Origin” director Ava DuVernay shared a message on her Instagram story with a series of images of Jones throughout his career. She wrote, “Thank you for showing us ourselves. Our complicated selves, our dignified selves, our smiles, our pain. A job well done. A gift beautifully shared. Bless you as you journey on.”
DuVernay also shared a clip from Jones’ 1974 film, “Claudine,” writing, “If you’ve never seen ‘Claudine,’ give yourself a gift. One of my favorite films. James Earl Jones is perfect. Diahann Carroll is wonderful. Together, these legends are magic. Find it and enjoy this gorgeous love story about real people and real things. Mr. Jones crying in a scene of this film is one of the most exquisite cinematic images of a Black man I’ve ever seen. Don’t miss it. He gave us so much.”
Octavia Spencer also posted a tribute to her Instagram . She shared a black and white photo of Jones with the caption, “I’m incredibly saddened to learn of James Earl Jones passing today. Legendary doesn’t even begin to describe his iconic roles and impact on cinema forever. His voice and talent will be remembered always. Sending love to his family, friends and countless fans in all the galaxies, far, far away.”
Lawyer and civil rights leader Ben Crump wrote on X, “James Earl Jones, the legendary actor whose voice transcended generations, has died at 93. His contributions to film and theater will never be forgotten. He leaves behind a legacy of excellence, strength, and inspiration for all! Rest In Power, Mr. Jones.”
Steven Canals, co-creator of the FX series “Pose,” shared a message of gratitude for Jones’ work, writing on X, “What a career. Thank you for making the moviegoing experience so special. Rest In Power, Legend.”
“Besides ‘Star Wars,’ the first film I remember ever seeing was ‘Claudine,'” wrote Yvette Nicole Brown. “James Earl Jones is a part of my cinematic DNA. Heartbroken doesn’t begin to cover it.”
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