George Lucas, Mark Hamill, and More Remember James Earl Jones
The Star Wars galaxy was shocked and saddened to learn yesterday that James Earl Jones had passed away at the age of 93.
While Jones had a legendary career that spanned film, stage, and television, he is perhaps best known for giving voice to Darth Vader in the Star Wars franchise.
Photo: People
The combination of Vader’s unmistakable appearance and Jones’s resonating voice would make the Sith Lord one of the most iconic film villains ever.
The Galaxy Pays Tribute to Jones
Following the news of the Hollywood titan’s passing, George Lucas paid tribute to the late actor.
“James was an incredible actor, a most unique voice both in art and spirit,” says 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.”
Photo: LucasFilm
Reflecting back on Jones’s impact both on and half of the screen, Lucasfilm CEO Kathleen Kennedy also remembered the late actor’s warm personality.
“James Earl Jones is one of the most versatile and talented actors of our time, with an iconic body of work across film, stage and television,” Kennedy said.
“The menacing baritone he brought to Darth Vader will forever be beloved by fans and regarded as one of the great villainous performances in cinema. His commanding presence on screen, and warm personality off screen, will be greatly missed.”
Mark Hammil’s Simple Message
Taking to X, Mark Hamill, whose Luke Skywalker is revealed to be Darth Vader’s son in Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back, simply wrote, “RIP dad 💔.”
#RIP dad 💔 https://t.co/YXpFoBb2Ua
— Mark Hamill (@MarkHamill) September 9, 2024
The fact that Jones will be remembered for a number of performances is a testament to his immense talent and impact. Still, for a generation of fans, the actor will always be synonymous with Darth Vader.
Photo: Lucasfilm
With the passing of Jones, the galaxy far, far away lost one of its brightest stars.
