James Earl Jones, the prolific actor whose resonant baritone voice and commanding presence defined generations of storytelling, passed away one year and one day ago at the age of 93. Born in 1931 in Arkabutla, Miss., Jones overcame a childhood stutter to become one of Hollywood’s most revered figures. With a career spanning over seven decades, he earned two Tony Awards, an Emmy, a Grammy, and an honorary Oscar in 2011 for his lifetime achievement. From Broadway stages to blockbuster films, Jones excelled in roles that showcased his depth, from villains to wise mentors. His voice, often described as “the voice of God,” brought unparalleled gravitas to characters that remain etched in pop culture. Here, we explore what could be considered (a definite matter of opinion) his top five roles, selected for their cultural impact, critical acclaim, and enduring legacy.
1. Darth Vader in the Star Wars Franchise
Undoubtedly Jones’s most famous role, Darth Vader in the Star Wars saga transformed him into a global icon. Voicing the Sith Lord in Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope (1977), The Empire Strikes Back (1980), and Return of the Jedi (1983), Jones delivered lines like “I am your father” with chilling authority, making Vader one of cinema’s greatest villains. Interestingly, his physical performance was provided by David Prowse, but Jones’s voice—deep, mechanical, and menacing—became synonymous with the character. He reprised the role in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016) and The Rise of Skywalker (2019), as well as the animated Star Wars Rebels. Initially anonymous in the credits for the first two films, feeling it was “just special effects,” Jones later embraced the part, signing a 2022 deal with Lucasfilm to allow archival audio use post-retirement. This role not only skyrocketed his fame but also broke barriers for voice actors in major franchises.
2. Mufasa in The Lion King
In Disney’s 1994 animated masterpiece The Lion King, Jones voiced Mufasa, the noble king of the Pride Lands and father to Simba. His portrayal infused the character with regal wisdom and paternal warmth, most memorably in the “Circle of Life” sequence and the heart-wrenching “remember who you are” speech from the clouds. Jones’s booming timbre elevated the film’s Shakespearean themes of legacy and redemption, earning widespread praise. He returned as the sole original voice cast member for the 2019 photorealistic remake, where director Jon Favreau called it a “milestone” moment. Mufasa’s death scene, with Jones’s voice echoing in grief-stricken roars, remains one of animation’s most emotional peaks, resonating with audiences across ages and influencing Broadway adaptations and sequels.
3. Terence Mann in Field of Dreams
Jones brought philosophical depth to Field of Dreams (1989), playing reclusive author Terence Mann, a counterculture figure whose works inspire a mystical baseball field built by Iowa farmer Ray Kinsella (Kevin Costner). Lured from seclusion, Mann grapples with regret and wonder, culminating in his iconic monologue: “People will come, Ray. They’ll arrive at your door as innocent as children…” Delivered with Jones’s signature gravitas, it captures the film’s themes of faith, forgiveness, and America’s pastime. Nominated for an Academy Award for the screenplay, the film owes much of its emotional core to Jones’s performance, blending cynicism with hope. Critics hailed it as a career highlight, showcasing his ability to humanize complex, introspective characters.
4. King Jaffe Joffer in Coming to America
Jones’s comedic timing shone in Coming to America (1988), where he portrayed King Jaffe Joffer, the imperious ruler of the fictional African nation of Zamunda. As the father arranging a marriage for his son, Prince Akeem (Eddie Murphy), Jaffe exudes aristocratic pomp with lines like “One day, you’ll understand,” delivered in a mix of sternness and affection. The role marked a delightful shift from Jones’s dramatic work, blending humor with cultural commentary on royalty and identity. He reprised it in Coming 2 America (2021), appearing on his deathbed as the family navigates succession surprises. This performance highlighted Jones’s versatility, contributing to the film’s status as a comedy classic and earning laughs for his exaggerated regal flair.
5. Admiral James Greer in the Jack Ryan Films
As CIA Deputy Director Admiral James Greer in the Tom Clancy adaptations—The Hunt for Red October (1990), Patriot Games (1992), and Clear and Present Danger (1994)—Jones anchored the franchise with moral authority and subtle wit. Mentoring analyst Jack Ryan (played by Alec Baldwin and Harrison Ford), Greer navigates geopolitical intrigue with dignity, often injecting levity into tense scenarios. His chemistry with the leads grounded the high-stakes thrillers, making Greer a fan-favorite mentor figure. Jones’s portrayal added layers of integrity to the series, influencing later iterations like the Amazon Prime version, and demonstrated his prowess in ensemble action roles.
Terence Mann in Field of Dreams is one of his roles that probably should be on this list. Is it iconic? That’s a good debate to have. The following quote in the 1989 film, though, was one of the more iconic line in the supernatural baseball hit co-starring Kevin Costner.
The one constant through all the years, Ray, has been baseball.
America has rolled by like an army of steamrollers. It’s been erased like a blackboard, rebuilt, and erased again. But baseball has marked the time.
This field, this game — it’s a part of our past, Ray. It reminds us of all that once was good, and it could be again.
Ohhhhhhhh, people will come, Ray. People will most definitely come.
James Earl Jones’s legacy transcends these roles; he was a trailblazer for Black actors, starring in groundbreaking films like The Great White Hope (1970), for which he won a Tony, and voicing CNN’s tagline. His work inspired countless artists, proving that voice and presence can command worlds. As we continue to mourn his loss, these performances remind us of his timeless artistry, ensuring his voice echoes eternally.
