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James Earl Jones, the legendary actor who overcame racial prejudice and a severe stutter to become an iconic figure on stage and screen, has passed away at the age of 93. Known for his deep, commanding voice, he lent his vocal talents to characters like Darth Vader in *Star Wars*, Mufasa in *The Lion King*, and the voice of CNN.
His agent, Barry McPherson, confirmed Jones’ passing on Monday morning at his home in the Hudson Valley, New York. The cause of death has not yet been disclosed.
Jones, a pioneering figure in American entertainment, broke barriers in 1965 when he became one of the first African American actors to land a recurring role in a daytime drama, As the World Turns. Throughout his illustrious career, he won numerous awards, including two Emmys, a Grammy, a Golden Globe, and two Tony Awards. He also received honorary distinctions, including an honorary Oscar and a special Tony Award for lifetime achievement. In 2022, a Broadway theater was renamed in his honor.
Despite his struggles with a stutter in his youth, Jones became celebrated for his remarkable voice and presence, with memorable roles in films such as *Field of Dreams*, *The Great White Hope*, *Cry, the Beloved Country*, and the Tom Clancy adaptations *The Hunt for Red October* and *Patriot Games*. His distinctive voice earned him a Grammy in 1977 for his narration of *Great American Documents*.
Jones made his Broadway debut in 1958 and won two Tony Awards for *The Great White Hope* and *Fences*. He continued to act well into his 80s, displaying a tireless work ethic and passion for storytelling, performing in both classic and contemporary roles on stage.
Born in 1931 in a small Mississippi town, Jones was raised by his grandparents in Michigan after his father left to pursue a career as an actor. A teacher helped him overcome his stutter, encouraging him to read poetry aloud, which sparked his love for oration and acting. He eventually pursued drama at the University of Michigan and served in the Army before embarking on a storied career in acting.
Jones’ legacy extends far beyond his impressive body of work. His ability to transform his personal struggles into a powerful career serves as an inspiration to generations of performers. In his later years, Jones reflected on the transformative power of art, saying, “You cannot change anybody’s mind… but you can change the way they feel.”
James Earl Jones is survived by his son, Flynn Earl Jones.
