From Darth Vader to Mufasa: Revisiting the legendary voice of late James Earl Jones through his iconic narration roles
James Earl Jones has left an indelible mark on cinema, television, and animation. Take a look at all the characters voiced by the actor as we mourn his loss
James Earl Jones, one of the most recognisable voices in the world, left an indelible mark on cinema, television, and animation through his narration work. The prolific actor who passed away at 93, was not only celebrated for his film roles but also revered for the power and presence he brought to every character he voiced. Though best known as the voice of Darth Vader in Star Wars, James lent his distinctive, gravelly baritone to many other iconic roles, solidifying his place in the world of narration.
Darth Vader
James' portrayal of Darth Vader remains one of the most memorable in film history. Despite not appearing physically in the role, his voice gave gravitas to the menacing presence of the galaxy’s most feared villain. From A New Hope to Revenge of the Sith (1977) and beyond, Jones continued to voice the character across the Star Wars universe. Mark Hamill, who played Luke, took to social media to pay his respects saying, “One of the world’s finest actors whose contributions to ‘Star Wars’ were immeasurable. He’ll be greatly missed. #RIP dad.”
Mufasa
Another of James' most cherished roles was Mufasa, the noble king of the Pride Lands in Disney’s The Lion King (1994). His powerful voice, rich with warmth and wisdom, gave life to the beloved character. The emotional impact of Mufasa’s tragic fate, compounded by James' heartfelt performance, remains one of the film’s most poignant moments. So iconic was his portrayal that he reprised the role in the 2019 live-action remake of The Lion King, reminding a new generation of Mufasa’s legacy.
Other narrative roles
While his work in Star Wars and The Lion King cemented his status as a legend, James brought his voice to an array of unique and captivating characters. In Jack and the Beanstalk (2009), he voiced the Giant, bringing a playful yet powerful presence to the whimsical story with his deep, authoritative voice.
In the animated film Our Friend, Martin (1999) James voiced Daddy King, the father of Martin Luther King Jr. This children’s educational movie introduced young audiences to the Civil Rights Movement, and James' role helped to lend a historical weight to the story.
James also portrayed the sinister Emperor of the Night in Pinocchio and the Emperor of the Night (1987), a darker take on the beloved fairy tale. His performance as the antagonist gave the character a chilling depth, further showcasing his range as a voice actor. Similarly, in The Flight of Dragons (1982), James voiced Ommadon, an evil wizard in a fantastical world. His powerful delivery added tension and excitement to the film’s adventurous storyline.
James' rich voice was also perfect for narrating documentaries and educational films. In There Was Always Sun Shining Someplace: Life in the Negro Baseball Leagues, James guided viewers through the history of segregated baseball leagues, bringing attention to the important stories of African American athletes.
He also lent his voice to Who’s in Rabbit’s House? (1995), a retelling of a traditional African folktale, demonstrating his ability to engage and educate audiences with a narrative style that was as compelling as it was soothing. Another lesser-known fact is that Jones was also the voice of US broadcaster CNN's "This is CNN" tagline. “He was the voice of CNN and our brand for many decades, uniquely conveying through speech instant authority, grace, and decorum," the broadcaster said to the Hollywood Reporter.
The depth and resonance of James' voice made him one of the most sought-after narrators in film and television. Whether playing villains, kings, or storytellers, James had a unique ability to bring any character to life with unparalleled gravitas. Though he is no longer with us, James' legacy lives on through the many iconic characters he portrayed.