Veteran actor James Earl Jones, who voiced Darth Vader and Mufasa, passes away

James Earl Jones, veteran actor who immortalised Darth Vader and King Mufasa with his voice and played a pivotal role in making these characters iconic, has died. Jones was 93 years old at the time of his death.

His agent, Barry McPherson, confirmed the news and said the actor died on Monday.

Born on 17 January, 1931, Jones started his acting career as a stage actor in the 1950s. He was known for his deep voice.

He was also the recipient of two Emmys, two Tony Awards, a Golden Globe, a Grammy, the National Medal of Arts, the Kennedy Center Honors, and was also awarded an honorary Oscar. Jones also was given a special Tony for lifetime achievement.

Mourning the loss, legendary filmmaker George Lucas, who created the Star Wars franchise, where Jones played Darth Vader, said, “James was an incredible actor, a most unique voice both in art and spirit.”

“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 a devoted husband to the late Ceci and dad to Flynn. James will be missed by so many of us…friends and fans alike,” Lucas mentioned.

While he was known for his voice, Jones had to overcome his problem as a stutterer to land the iconic roles.