KRT STAND ALONE PHOTOGRAPH BY OLIVIER DOULIERY/ABACA PRESS ( Nov. 17) WASHINGTON, DC — Actor James Earl Jones is shown as he speaks to students about the importance of literacy in Washington, DC, on Wednesday, Nov. 17, 2004. (gsb) 2004
“Everything the light touches… is our kingdom. But a king’s time as ruler rises and falls like the sun,” Mufasa states in Disney’s “Lion King.”
On the morning of Monday, Sept. 9, legendary actor James Earl Jones passed away in his home in Dutchess County, N.Y.
Jones had an extensive acting career, being both a Disney Legend and a recipient of the EGOT achievement (winning an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony award) after winning three Tony’s, two Emmys, a Grammy, and an honorary Oscar for lifetime achievement.
His filmography includes cult-classics such as “Star Wars,” “Field of Dreams,” “the Sandlot,” and “Dr. Strangelove.”
Additionally, he voiced Mufasa in both the animated and live action versions of Disney’s “Lion King,” as previously mentioned. The role featured a voice that was calm, wise, and noble.
Out of all his roles, he is perhaps best known as the voice of Darth Vader from “Star Wars.” The deep, menacing vocal tone that Jones provided for the films and series is unforgettable. He perfectly embodied the power and will of the character, invoking fear on audiences worldwide for almost fifty years.
Outside of his acting life, Jones was known to be a very kind soul. He would stop on the streets to greet his fans and sign autographs. He would even respond to fan-mail until his retirement from acting.
Prior to acting, Jones was terrified to speak. He had a stutter that he found unbearable. His interest in poetry allowed him to practice speaking, and fueled his passion for acting.
It was through overcoming adversity that led to his success, where his voice would inspire others to speak. Little did he know that he would grow up to have one of the most famous voices of all time. The Cort Theatre, a well regarded Broadway theater in New York City, was even renamed to the James Earl Jones Theatre in 2022 to honor his legacy.
Around the world, fans and celebrities have spread words of tribute. Mark Hamill, best known for playing Luke Skywalker throughout the “Star Wars” franchise, expressed that he will deeply miss his father. Italian actor Giancarlo Esposito also stated that Jones was an inspiration to him growing up, allowing him to become the famous actor he is today.
Long live the king.