The film industry is grieving the loss of James Earl Jones, the accomplished EGOT-winning actor celebrated for his performances on stage and screen, who left us at 93 years old.

Jones passed away on Monday, surrounded by loved ones. He was honored by both his “Star Wars” co-star Mark Hamill and the franchise’s creator George Lucas.

Hamill, famed for his role as Luke Skywalker, expressed his sorrow shortly after hearing the news, stating, “#RIP dad 💔” on X, formerly Twitter. One of Jones’ legendary lines as Darth Vader was his revelation that he was Luke’s father in “Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back.”

In a follow-up Instagram post, Hamill added: “One of the world’s finest actors whose contributions to Star Wars were immeasurable. He’ll be greatly missed..”

George Lucas shared his reflections on Jones with YSL News, calling him “an incredible actor with a unique voice that resonated both artistically and spiritually.”

“For nearly fifty years, he brought Darth Vader to life. But above all, he was a kind-hearted human being. He infused depth and meaning into every role, especially as the devoted husband to the late Ceci and father to Flynn,” Lucas remembered. “James will be missed by many friends and fans alike.”

Colman Domingo and Sheryl Lee Ralph Express Gratitude for Jones

Apart from Darth Vader, Jones also portrayed memorable characters like Mufasa in the 1994 Disney classic “The Lion King,” its 1998 sequel “The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride,” and the 2019 remake directed by Jon Favreau. He also played Terence Mann in the 1989 film “Field of Dreams” and Mr. Mertle in “The Sandlot.”

His last role was as King Jaffe Joffer in the 2021 sequel “Coming 2 America.”

Colman Domingo paid tribute to Jones’ nearly 60-year career on Instagram, saying: “Rest. Thank you for everything. Everything. Everything. We all looked to you. Thank you, King James Earl Jones. Rest well.”

Da’Vine Joy Randolph reflected on how Jones influenced her journey as an Oscar-winning actor, stating in an Instagram Story: “You were my first introduction into this industry. You took me under your wing—always checking in on me. That meant more than you know. May they never forget your grace, power, and remarkable talents. What a legacy you’ve created. Rest, King 👑”

Sheryl Lee Ralph shared how Jones’ Tony-winning Broadway performance motivated her to become an actress. She wrote on Instagram: “I took a school trip to see James Earl Jones in Broadway’s The Great White Hope, and I was mesmerized. I yearned to be on that stage. Years later, I found myself working alongside Sidney Poitier and James Earl Jones in my first film, A Piece of the Action. What an artist!”

LeVar Burton fondly remembered Jones, saying in a post on X: “James Earl Jones. there will never be another like him with such unique graces.”

Tyler Perry and Viola Davis Reflect on Jones’ Legacy

Josh Gad shared his feelings about Jones, who shaped his childhood with his performances.

“Shattered. There are icons, and then there is this man. How do we commemorate a person who delivered some of the most stellar stage and screen performances ever?” Gad wrote in an Instagram post. “For many of us, you were a significant part of our childhoods, from Star Wars to The Lion King, from Field of Dreams to The Sandlot, and from Coming to America to Dr. Strangelove.”

“Thank you, James, for dedicating your life to art and filling our lives with unforgettable performances. It was an honor to know you, and an even greater honor to perform in a theater named after you. 💔”

Tyler Perry honored Jones as “a legend and a king,” posting on Instagram: “Thank you for being a role model and for your powerful voice that paved the way for me and many others. You will be greatly missed, my friend. Blessings to your family.”

Viola Davis celebrated Jones as “the gold standard” of acting, stating in an Instagram post, “What. A. Life!!!! An electrifying legacy! You set the gold standard with gravitas, bravery, diligence, and emotional depth.”

“Every character you portrayed was monumental and heroic. You were truly gifted. It was a privilege to meet you, honorable sir. Your artistry leaves a lasting mark. Rest with the giants. May angels guide you to rest. 🕊️❤️🙏🏿”

James Earl Jones’ Voice Will Be Cherished Forever

Octavia Spencer, Kyra Sedgwick, and Danielle Brooks acknowledged that Jones’ legacy will endure through his iconic voice work.

Spencer shared on Instagram, “The term legendary doesn’t even scratch the surface regarding his impactful roles and eternal influence on cinema. His voice and skill will forever be remembered. Sending love to his family, friends, and countless admirers across all galaxies, far and wide.”

“From stage to screen, James was an absolute icon. He (and his voice) will be profoundly missed. Rest in peace ♥️,” Sedgwick wrote on Instagram.

“Rest in power to one of our titans. May we always cherish your voice in our hearts!” Brooks expressed.

Meanwhile,

Jamie Foxx referred to James Earl Jones as an “Icon” in a recent Instagram post, stating, “Rest in Power.”

James Earl Jones: A ‘Force of Nature’ in Award-Winning Role in ‘Fences’

Uzo Aduba paid tribute to Jones by posting a clip of his award-winning performance as Troy Maxson in August Wilson’s Broadway production “Fences.”

In her Instagram post, Aduba commented, “You are born a King. James Earl Jones embodies many cherished memories and emotions for so many of us. My husband and I watched this clip a few weeks ago and felt deeply inspired by his talent.”

She added, “I wanted to share it in case some of you haven’t seen it. It’s absolutely worth watching. He was truly a force of nature in every aspect of performance. (May) he rest peacefully, having undoubtedly completed his journey.”