The acting industry bids farewell to James Earl Jones, whose unmistakable voice and towering talent resonated through generations. His contributions to the world of film and television will forever be remembered.
Hollywood has lost a true legend. James Earl Jones was an iconic actor whose voice thundered through favorite films. The veteran actor, who shaped unforgettable characters, passed away on Monday morning, September 9 at the age of 93.
James Earl Jones is shown recording an audio segment for Disney during a special event in Pawling, New York on July 10, 2019. | Source: Getty Images
With a career spanning stage and screen, Jones left an indelible mark on the entertainment world. He captivated audiences with his powerful presence and unmatched talent.
From voicing the menacing Darth Vader in “Star Wars” to bringing wisdom and importance to Mufasa in “The Lion King,” Jones’ deep, resonant voice became as iconic as the characters he portrayed.
James Earl Jones attends the “The Gin Game” Broadway opening night after party at Sardi’s on October 14, 2015, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
He passed away peacefully at his home in Duchess County, New York, surrounded by his family. Jones’ death confirmation from his representatives at the Independent Artist Group has left fans worldwide mourning the loss of a legend. His talents and contributions will forever echo in cinema history.
Though the cause of Jones’ death remains unknown, the legendary actor had previously opened up about his 20-year battle with type 2 diabetes. In a candid 2018 interview, Jones revealed that he discovered his diagnosis by accident—a common experience for many.
James Earl Jones attends the 70th Annual Tony Awards at Beacon Theatre on June 12, 2016, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
“I didn’t notice any symptoms,” he explained. “I had gone to a diet and exercise program hoping to lose some weight and ended up falling asleep sitting on a bench in the gymnasium.”
A chance encounter with his doctor, who happened to be there, changed everything. Noticing something wasn’t right, the doctor urged Jones to get tested, leading to the unexpected diagnosis. “It hit me like a thunderbolt,” Jones recalled.
James Earl Jones poses for a photo during a “Driving Miss Daisy” photo call on on January 7, 2013, in Sydney, Australia | Source: Getty Images
From that day on, he became more attuned to his body’s signals. “I had to retrain myself to be aware of when my body is telling me something,” he shared. “Usually with low blood sugar, it’s easy to notice. With high blood sugar, it’s not as easy, and that can be the most dangerous aspect of type 2 diabetes.”
Actor James Earl Jones, in UK on July 25, 1978. | Source: Getty Images
Despite this, Jones never let the diagnosis slow him down. His passion for performing remained strong, whether handling the demands of eight shows a week or a long film or television schedule. “I love working,” he said, at the time and he kept that commitment to his craft throughout his remarkable career.
As James Earl Jones’ professional life soared, so did his personal life, grounded in a love story that stood the test of time. In 1982, he married actress Cecilia Hart, and by December of that year, they welcomed their son, Flynn Earl Jones.
ames Earl Jones and wife Cecilia Hart arrive at the reopening celebration at Ford’s Theatre on February 11, 2009, in Washington, DC. | Source: Getty Images
The actor, ever the devoted husband and father, took a step back from Hollywood’s spotlight, choosing more modest roles in made-for-TV movies, bit parts, and voiceover work to support his growing family.
Jones and Hart first crossed paths on the set of the TV series “Paris” in 1979, and their connection blossomed both personally and professionally. Hart had graced Broadway twice — first in “Dirty Linen” in 1977, and later, alongside Jones, as Desdemona to his “Othello” in 1982.
James Earl Jones and Cecilia Hart attend the after party for “Driving Miss Daisy” at The Plaza Hotel on October 25, 2010, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
Their bond transcended the stage and screen, evolving into a marriage that lasted over three decades. Despite the pressures of Hollywood, their love remained unshakable, and James Earl Jones never hesitated to express his adoration for his wife.
Tragically, in 2016, their love story faced its darkest chapter when Hart passed away at the age of 68 after a battle with ovarian cancer. Her loss was a devastating blow to Jones, but he continued to celebrate her memory. During his 2017 Tony Award acceptance speech, he delivered a heartfelt tribute to his beloved wife.
“I want to thank my wife Ceci for being such a wonderful companion in my life and in my work,” he said, before warmly adding, “And for being so dazzling on the red carpet.”
Even in her absence, Hart’s presence in Jones’ life remained powerful, a testament to the enduring love that had been central to both his personal and professional journey.
James Earl Jones and Cici attend Signature Theatre Company honors Horton Foote on the eve of his 90th birthday at the Ritz Carlton March 13, 2006, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
Throughout his illustrious career, James Earl Jones reached monumental heights, becoming one of the few performers to achieve the coveted EGOT status, having won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award.
Though his Oscar came in the form of a non-competitive Academy Lifetime Achievement Award, his career was filled with countless competitive victories. Jones earned two Tony Awards for Best Actor in a Play, collected three Emmy Awards, and took home a Grammy for Best Spoken Word in 1977 for “Great American Documents.”
ames Earl Jones poses with his “Lifetime achievement” Oscar on November 12, 2011, at the Garrick Theatre in London, England. | Source: Getty Images
In addition to these accolades, Jones was honored with Lifetime Achievement Awards from both the Tony Awards and the Screen Actors Guild, and in 2002, he was celebrated as a Kennedy Center honoree. He indeed has left a legacy that will forever be remembered.