James Earl Jones: Celebrated Actor Dies at 93, Mourned by Hollywood and Beyond
Los Angeles, CA – Hollywood is in mourning following the passing of legendary actor James Earl Jones at the age of 93. Jones, known for his deep, resonant voice and iconic roles such as Darth Vader in Star Wars and Alex Haley in Roots, died on Monday, September 9, 2024.
The news of his death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and fans alike. Among those who have publicly mourned Jones are fellow actors Mark Hamill, who starred alongside him in Star Wars, and LeVar Burton, who worked with him on the television miniseries Roots.
Tributes Pour In
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Mark Hamill: The actor who portrayed Luke Skywalker in Star Wars took to social media to express his sorrow. Jim was a towering talent and a warm, kind soul. His voice was as distinctive as his presence. He will be missed, Hamill wrote.
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LeVar Burton: Burton, who played Kunta Kinte in Roots, shared his admiration for Jones, stating, James Earl Jones was not just an actor; he was a giant of our industry. His portrayal of Alex Haley in ‘Roots’ was nothing short of transformative. His legacy will live on.
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Bob Iger: The CEO of Disney, Bob Iger, also paid his respects, highlighting Jones’s impact on the Star Wars franchise. James Earl Jones brought a depth and gravitas to Darth Vader that is unmatched. He will forever be a part of the fabric of our galaxy.
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George Lucas: The creator of Star Wars echoed Iger’s sentiments, saying, Jim’s voice gave life to Darth Vader, creating one of the most memorable characters in film history. His contribution to the ‘Star Wars’ universe is immeasurable.
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Debbie Allen: The actress and choreographer, known for her work on Fame, remembered Jones as a mentor and friend. He was not just a colleague; he was a guiding light. His spirit will continue to inspire us all.
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CNN: The news network honored Jones with a special segment, highlighting his achievements and the impact he had on the entertainment industry.
James Earl Jones’s career spanned decades, and his influence was felt across stage, screen, and voice work. Overcoming racial prejudice and a severe stutter, he became an icon of American theater and film, earning numerous accolades, including an honorary Oscar in 2012.
As the world mourns his passing, Jones’s legacy as a trailblazer and a talent will continue to inspire generations to come.
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