(LibertySociety.com) – Legendary actor James Earl Jones, known for his iconic roles on stage and screen, passed away on Monday at the age of 93, Fox News Digital confirmed. Best known for voicing Darth Vader in the “Star Wars” franchise, Jones had a career that spanned decades and left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
Jones died at his home in Dutchess County, New York, surrounded by his family, according to a statement from his representative.
Over his illustrious career, Jones became one of the few performers to achieve EGOT status, having earned Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony awards. He won two Emmy Awards, three Tony Awards, and a Grammy. While he never won a competitive Oscar, Jones was honored with an Academy Award for lifetime achievement, presented by Sir Ben Kingsley.
Kevin Costner, who starred alongside Jones in Field of Dreams, shared a touching tribute, praising Jones’ “booming voice” and “quiet strength,” calling him an irreplaceable presence in the iconic film. Costner remarked, “Only he could bring that kind of magic to a movie about baseball and a cornfield in Iowa.”
Jones began his acting career in the 1950s, quickly establishing himself as one of the finest Shakespearean actors of his time. He gained recognition with powerful performances in Othello, King Lear, and Hamlet, among others. His film debut came in Stanley Kubrick’s Dr. Strangelove in 1964.
His most iconic role, however, was as the voice of Darth Vader in George Lucas’ Star Wars trilogy, a character whose deep voice became synonymous with the legendary villain, as highlighted in The Hollywood Reporter.
Jones also enjoyed success in other major films such as Coming to America, The Hunt for Red October, The Sandlot, and Clear and Present Danger. He earned an Oscar nomination for his role in The Great White Hope and won two Emmys in 1991.
Throughout his life, Jones received numerous accolades, including a Kennedy Center Honor in 2002 and the Screen Actors Guild Lifetime Achievement Award in 2009. His passing is noted as a major loss to the industry by CBS News, reflecting on the legacy of unforgettable performances and an unmatched voice that will be remembered for generations.
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