Vale, James Earl Jones - 1931 - 2024

One of the greatest character-actors, voices and pop culture icons, James Earl Jones, passed away overnight at age 93 in his home, according to his agent, Barry McPherson. His cause of death is not yet known.

Jones' screen work is an intimidating resume, featuring some of the most iconic characters of a generation including Darth Vader (Star Wars), King Musafa (The Lion King) and King Jaffe Joffer (Coming to America) as well as our absolute favourite, Thulsa Doom in the seminal Conan the Barbarian, among many, many others.

He will be remembered as an African American trailblazer in the acting space, playing many roles that spoke out against racism, or highlighted its root and cause while also utilising his booming voice through myriad voice-acting roles and cameos. In Star Wars, he wasn't credited until Return of the Jedi and famously, the actor who physically played Vader, David Prowse, had no idea his lines would be replaced by Jones'.

Mark Hamill Tweeted simply today, "RIP Dad <3"

#RIP dad 💔 https://t.co/YXpFoBb2Ua

— Mark Hamill (@MarkHamill) September 9, 2024