For six decades, James Earl Jones worked with some of the biggest figures in film and theater.
Stars of the screen mourned the death of James Earl Jones, the voice of “Star Wars” villain Darth Vader, on Monday at the age of 93.
Jones, who also voiced King Mufasa in Disney’s animated film “The Lion King,” had a prolific and varied career.
Over six decades he worked with some of the biggest figures in film and theater, including Stanley Kubrick in his 1964 Cold War satire, ‘Dr Strangelove’.
He also had roles in Arnold Schwarzenegger’s film “Conan The Barbarian” and Kevin Costner’s 1989 film “Field of Dreams”.
But it was for his role as one of cinema’s most famous villains that he became best known.
While Darth Vader’s immense physicality was the result of towering British actor David Prowse, the sinister voice that seemed to emanate from the reconstructed man-in-a-mask was that of Jones.
And it was Jones who gave the “Star Wars” franchise some of its most memorable lines, including when he reveals to Luke Skywalker — played by a young Mark Hamill — “I am your father.”
Hamill took to social media on Monday to share the news of Jones’ death, simply writing, “#RIP daddy” with a broken heart emoji.
“Rustin” star Coleman Domingo wrote on social media that Jones was “a master of our craft.”
‘We stand on your shoulders. Rest now. You gave us the best.”
Lydia Cornell, whose 1982 debut “Bloodtide” was opposite Jones, said, “Oh no!! I can’t believe it!! I thought he was going to live forever.”
“I loved working with him. Such a generous spirit and so humble. Taught me the power of silence and being able to use my voice.”
“Selma” director Ava DuVernay posted images of Jones, accompanied by a heartfelt message.
“Thank you for showing us ourselves. Our complicated selves, our worthy selves, our smiles, our pain. A job well done. A beautiful gift shared. Bless you as you continue your journey.”
Alongside a clip from Jones’ 1974 film, “Claudine,” she urged fans to seek it out if they’ve never seen it.
“Mr. Jones crying in a scene of this movie is one of the most beautiful cinematic images of a black man I have ever seen. Don’t miss it. He gave us so much,” she wrote.
“The Help” star Octavia Spencer posted a black-and-white photo of Jones, alongside a tribute that nodded to his indelible role in “Star Wars.”
“Legendary doesn’t even begin to describe his iconic roles and impact on cinema forever,” she wrote.
“His voice and talent will always be remembered. He sends love to his family, friends and countless fans in galaxies far, far away.”
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