Movie stars are mourning the death Monday at age 93 of James Earl Jones, the voice of “Star Wars” villain Darth Vader.
Jones, who also provided the voice of King Mufasa in Disney’s animated feature film “The Lion King,” has had a rich and varied career.
For more than six decades he worked with some of the greatest figures in cinema and stage, including Stanley Kubrick in the 1964 Cold War satire “Dr. Strangelove.”
He also had roles in the Arnold Schwarzenegger film “Conan the Barbarian” and the 1989 Kevin Costner film “Field of Dreams.”
But he became most widely known for playing one of cinema’s most famous villains.
While Darth Vader’s massive physique was the work of hulking British actor David Prowse, the sinister voice that emanated from within the reconstructed masked man belonged to Jones.
And it was Jones who gave the “Star Wars” franchise some of its most memorable dialogue, including the line he told Luke Skywalker — played by a young Mark Hamill — “I am your father.”
Hamill shared the news of Jones’ death on social media on Monday, writing “#RIP dad” and adding a broken heart emoji.
“Rustin” star Colman Domingo wrote on social media that Jones was “a master of our craft.”
“We stand on your shoulders. Now relax. You gave us your best.”
Lydia Cornell, whose 1982 debut film “Bloodtide” was with Jones, said: “Oh no!! I can’t believe it!! I thought he would live forever.”
“He was a joy to work with. He was very generous and humble. He taught me the power of stability and using your voice.”
“Selma” director Ava DuVernay posted photos of Jones, along with a heartfelt message.
“Thank you for showing us ourselves. Our complicated self, our dignified self, our smiles, our pain. A job well done. A gift beautifully shared. Blessings on your journey.”
With a clip from Jones’ 1974 film “Claudine,” he urged fans to watch the movie if they’ve never seen it before.
He wrote, “Mr. Jones crying in a scene in this film is one of the greatest cinematic images of a black man I have ever seen. Don’t miss it. He has given us so much.”
“The Help” star Octavia Spencer posted a black-and-white photo of Jones, with which she paid tribute to his indelible role in “Star Wars.”
“The word great isn’t enough to describe his iconic characters and the impact he had on cinema,” he wrote.
“His voice and talent will always be missed. I’m sending love to his family, friends and countless fans far and wide.”
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
