James Earl Jones dies at 93

James Earl Jones at Glasgow Film Festival Photo: Courtesy of Max Crawford/Glasgow Film Festival

The film world paid tribute last night to James Earl Jones, who notched up dozens of credits across his long career and endeared himself to generations via his distinctive mellifluous voice work as Darth Vader in the Star Wars franchise and The Lion King's Mufasa. His agent reported that he died on Monday, surrounded by his family at the age of 93.

Among those celebrating the life of the versatile star, who will also be remembered for films as diverse as Coming To America, Exorcist II, The Great White Hope and Field Of Dreams, was Mark Hamill, who played Darth Vader's son in Star Wars. He shared a news story about Jones' death on Twitter with a broken heart emoji and the comment: "RIP dad".

Although he became famed for his voice work, the Mississippi-born star had a stutter as a child. Jones said he was mute for some years because "I just gave up on talking". But, in high school, he discovered speaking from memory aided it. "If you're mute that long, you become very curious about expressing yourself," he said.

After a spell in the military, he found fame on Broadway, winning a Tony award in 1988 for The Great White Hope about boxer Jack Johnson. It was later adapted into a film, for which he was Oscar-nominated.

Previously, On Broadway producer Oren Jacoby told us: "The most memorable early show that transformed my thinking about theatre and the world was a play called The Great White Hope. It starred James Earl Jones. That’s why it was so important to me making this film that we were sure to get James Earl Jones in the film."

Jones' work as a trailblazer for other Black actors was acknowledged by many, including Sing Sing star Colman Domingo, who wrote on X: "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."

James Earl Jones in conversation with Allan Hunter at Glasgow Film Festival in 2010 Photo: Courtesy of Max Crawford/Glasgow Film Festival

It was a sentiment echoed by The Wire and Selma star Wendell Pierce, who wrote: "This man was the living embodiment of artistry, integrity, creativity, and dignity. James Earl Jones is the sole reason I became an actor. He stirred a vocation in me that gave voice to my unsung heart songs. By example, he led me on the exploration of my own personal humanity and the study of human behavior in others and the intangible, ever-present soul. He was a once in a generation talent that has left an enormous legacy in American culture."

And on Instagram, The Help Oscar-winner Octavia Spencer wrote: “I’m incredibly saddened to learn of #JamesEarlJones’ 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.”

LucasFilm has also paid tribute, “James was an incredible actor, a most unique voice both in art and spirit,” said George Lucas. “For nearly half a century he was Darth Vader, but the secret to it all is he was a beautiful human being. He gave depth, sincerity and meaning to all his roles, amongst the most important being a devoted husband to the late Ceci and dad to Flynn. James will be missed by so many of us...friends and fans alike.”

Jones first film role came as Lt Lothar Zog in Doctor Strangelove but he went on to have an eclectic career, with films also including, Patriot Games, The Hunt For Red October, Conan The Barbarian and Clear and Present Danger. Beyond film, he also enjoyed a rich television career in shows including Roots and Gabriel's Fire - for which he won one of several Emmys.

Working up until the past decade, Jones came to Glasgow Film Festival in 2010 and was awarded an honorary Oscar in 2011 for his contribution to the industry. He is survived by his son, Flynn Earl Jones.