Mark Hamill, Billy Dee Williams, Bob Iger and more mourn James Earl Jones
“One of the world’s finest actors whose contributions to Star Wars were immeasurable. He’ll be greatly missed,” said Hamill who plays Luke Skywalker, the son of James Earl Jones' Darth Vader, in the franchise.
Famous fans and collaborators are paying tribute to James Earl Jones, the award-winning actor and commanding voice of Darth Vader, who died Monday at 93.
MARK HAMILL
“One of the world’s finest actors whose contributions to Star Wars were immeasurable. He’ll be greatly missed.”
KEVIN COSTNER
“That booming voice. That quiet strength. The kindness that he radiated. So much can be said about his legacy, so I’ll just say how thankful I am that part of it includes ‘Field of Dreams.’ If you’ve seen it, you know that this movie wouldn’t be the same with anyone else in his role. Only he could bring that kind of magic to a movie about baseball and a corn field in Iowa. I’m grateful to have been a witness to him making that magic happen. Rest in peace, friend.”
DEBBIE ALLEN
“James Earl Jones will forever be remembered as The GOAT. It was truly a privilege to direct him and a Blessing to be loved by him. We will forever speak his name and tell the great stories that will become Legend and Myth and seed generations to come.”
OCTAVIA SPENCER
“Legendary doesn’t even begin to describe his iconic roles and impact on cinema forever. His voice and talent will be remembered always. Sending love to his family, friends and countless fans in all the galaxies, far, far away.”
LEVAR BURTON
“James Earl Jones… there will never be another of his particular combination of graces.”
BOB IGER
“From the gentle wisdom of Mufasa to the menacing threat of Darth Vader, James Earl Jones gave voice to some of the greatest characters in cinema history. A celebrated stage actor with nearly 200 film and television credits to his name, the stories he brought to life with a uniquely commanding presence and a true richness of spirit have left an indelible mark on generations of audiences.”
AVA DUVERNAY
“Thank you for showing us ourselves. Our complicated selves, our dignified selves, our smiles, our pain. A job well done. A gift beautifully shared. Bless you as you journey on.”
COLMAN DOMINGO
“Thank you dear James Earl Jones for everything. A master of our craft. We stand on your shoulders. Rest now. You gave us your best.”
PAUL FEIG
“James Earl Jones will never die. His talent, work and influence will be with us always. RIP, Mr. Jones.”
WILLIAM SHATNER
“Condolences to the family of James Earl Jones.”
JOHN STAMOS
"James wasn’t just the best living actor of our time—he was a towering giant in every sense. Sharing the stage with him gave me the legitimacy I had been striving for throughout my life. There was no one like him, and there never will be again."
BILLY DEE WILLIAMS
"He brought power, wisdom, and soul to every role, but more than that, he was a kind, humble soul who inspired everyone around him. His legacy will live on forever, and though he’s gone, his presence will always be felt."