Remembering James Earl Jones: A journey through his iconic roles

Hollywood legend, James Earl Jones, has died at the age of 93. Picture: Alpine Pty Limited /Distant Hori / Collection Christophel / Collection ChristopheL via AFP

Hollywood legend, James Earl Jones, has died at the age of 93. Picture: Alpine Pty Limited /Distant Hori / Collection Christophel / Collection ChristopheL via AFP

Published Sep 10, 2024

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Tributes from around the world have poured in for legendary actor James Earl Jones following the news of his passing on Monday at the age of 93.

With a career spanning six decades, Jones had a prolific career, working with some of the greatest figures in cinema and theatre.

As news of his passing spreads, tributes have trended across social media with many sharing their fondest memories of the characters he has portrayed.

The Oscar-winning actor was the voice of Mufasa in “The Lion King” and videos of the scene where Mufasa explains to Simba that he can always look at the stars when he feels alone has been trending online.

— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) September 9, 2024

“Simba, let me tell you something that my father told me. Look at the stars. The great kings of the past look down on us from those stars. Whenever you feel alone, just remember that those kings will always be there to guide you and so will I,” he says in the clip.

Jones was the lead actor in the 1995 movie “Cry the Beloved Country” which also starred South African talent Ramolao Makhene, Dolly Rathebe, Vusi Kunene, Leleti Khumalo, Lillian Dube, Darlington Michaels, Abigail Kubeka, Themba Ndaba and Dr. Jerry Mofokeng was Makhetha.

The actor also starred in Hollywood hit movies, “Coming to America 1 and 2”. The sequel of the popular movie starred local actress Nomzamo Mbatha.

Jones is also best known as the voice of "Star Wars" villain Darth Vader. His line where he reveals to Luke Skywalker portrayed by a young Mark Hamill "I am your father" is one of the most memorable and popular lines from “Star Wars”.

Jones won three Tony awards including two Emmys and a Grammy, as well as an honorary Oscar in 2011 for lifetime achievement.

IOL Entertainment