Summary
Mark Hamill grieves the passing of James Earl Jones, who voiced Darth Vader inStar Wars. Hamill had always spoken highly of Jones even if they didn’t film for the franchise together because Anakin Skywalker, aka Darth Vader, was portrayed by David Prowse on screen.
Jones voiced Darth Vader in the originalStar Warsfilms from 1977 to 1983. Even if Jones wasn’t seen on screen in the hit franchise, his voice of Vader had become iconic and added an immense weight to the emotional connection between Vader and his sonLuke Skywalker, played by Hamill. Jones would often downplay his role in the big franchise by considering himself as just part of the more extensive collaborative production process. He also requested that his name not be included in the credits out of respect for Prowse. He wasn’t credited for Vader’s voice until the 1983 movieReturn of the Jedi,CBS Newsreported. Jones' rep confirmed to CBS News thathe passed away on September 9at the age of 93. Hamill took to social media to pay respect to the man behind hisStar Warsdad’s voice.
Hamill shared a throwback photo of him with Jones onInstagram. In the snap, the two look happy and are grinning at the camera. He accompanied it with a short caption, acknowledging Jones' talent. “One of the world’s finest actors whose contributions toStar Warswere immeasurable. He’ll be greatly missed. #RIP dad,” Hamill wrote. The post received several comments and many recounted how Jones' voice touched their lives. One said the first time he heard Jones' voice as Vader inStar Wars,it was “scary and intimidating.” However, when he heard his voice asMufasa inThe Lion King,it was “protective and courageous.” “No other voice can do that with such strength. Rest in Peace Mr. James Earl Jones. May the Force Be With You, always,” the fan commented on Hamill’s post.
Jones' contribution to the Star Wars franchise was massive. Even if he only rendered his voice, it had an impact on the viewers. Lucasfilm also released an official statement onStarWars.com, compiling tributes for the late Tony-winning actor. “James was an incredible actor, a most unique voice both in art and spirit,” George Lucas, the creator ofStar Wars, said. “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 devoted husband to the late Ceci and dad to Flynn. James will be missed by so many of us…friends and fans alike.”
Jones is undoubtedly a significant part of theStar Warsfranchise. Hisiconic voice made Darth Vader a forceand one of the most complex villains in cinema history. In some scenes, Jones gave the character a chilling presence with his calm and resonant tone, making Vader appear even more dangerous. His powerful voice was very effective in conveying Vader’s anger and pain, especially since the character was wearing a mask. His vocal performance made Vader’s scene memorable and the character a cultural icon.
