James Earl Jones (1931-2024) RIP

One of the most iconic lines ever spoken on film. Sadly, that powerful and instantly recognizable “basso profondo” voice is now no longer with us. James Earl Jones passed away today at the age of 93. In a rather strange coincidence, I just watched him last night as Thulsa Doom in Conan The Barbarian. But of course it’s the ominous voice of Darth Vader for which he will always be known. That signature voice is so synonymous with the character that you almost forget there was actually another actor in that suit. Fairly or unfairly, most of us think of Jones as Darth more so than David Prowse. Of course Jones was more than just a voice. With so many memorable movie roles. Admiral Jim Greer in the Jack Ryan films. King Jaffe Joffer in Coming to America. NSA Director Bernard Abbott in Sneakers. And so many others. Plus, he was a tremendous stage and television actor, winning 3 Tony’s and 3 Emmy’s in his illustrious career (yes, he is an EGOT winner). Obviously if you’re a comic geek or a sci-fi nerd, it’s Darth Vader that you’re thinking about. So somewhere out there, I imagine that Sheldon Cooper is in desperate need of someone to sing “Soft Kitty” to him right now.

My prayers and condolences to Mr. Jones’ entire family. May he rest in peace.