Deion Sanders shares heartfelt message to honor James Earl Jones on his death
Colorado Buffaloes coach Deion Sanders paid tribute to the legendary James Earl Jones, who passed away at 93, with a heartfelt message on X/Twitter. Jones, known for his iconic roles in films like "Field of Dreams" and "The Lion King," left a lasting impact on American cinema and culture.
"Coach Prime" expressed his deep respect for the actor, who was born in Mississippi in 1931.
“God Bless the family, friends & loved 1z of James Earl Jones the icon,” Sanders wrote on X. “You’ve blessed us all. We Salute u my brother.”
Jones, who was celebrated for his deep voice that brought to life iconic characters like Darth Vader in Star Wars, died surrounded by family early Monday morning, according to his agent Barry McPherson.
His legacy was further honored by the Star Wars franchise on X:
“Thank you for everything, James.”
Michigan football also paid homage in a moving video tribute:
“Honoring the greatest voice in acting history and a Michigan icon. Rest in peace, James Earl Jones.”
Throughout his illustrious career, Jones won three Tony Awards, two Emmys and a Grammy, culminating in an honorary Oscar in 2011 for lifetime achievement.
James Earl Jones’ iconic roles and career
James Earl Jones is a name the world recognizes, whether from his iconic roles in Tom Clancy adaptations like "The Hunt for Red October", "Patriot Games" and "Clear and Present Danger", or even on "Sesame Street".
Despite a career full of standout performances, he received only one Oscar nomination for his role as boxer Jack Jefferson in "The Great White Hope" (1971). Furthermore, his talent also shone brightly on Broadway, winning him two Tony Awards — one in 1969 for the same role in "The Great White Hope" and another in 1987 for his portrayal of Troy Maxson in August Wilson’s "Fences".
Jones played memorable roles in classic baseball movies like "Field of Dreams" and "The Sandlot," delivering a powerful rendition of the national anthem at the 1993 MLB All-Star Game in Baltimore.
Jones also made his mark on television, securing two Emmys in 1991: one for his lead role in "Gabriel’s Fire" and another for his supporting role in the TV show "Heat Wave", which focused on the 1965 Watts riots.
His voice, perhaps the most powerful tool in his acting arsenal, earned him a Grammy in 1977 for the spoken-word album "The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey". In 2012, the Academy recognized his expansive career with an honorary Oscar.
Starting his journey on Broadway in 1958 with "Sunrise at Campobello", he continued to become a legend, with the Cort Theatre now bearing his name.
Yet, it was his 1977 role as the voice of Darth Vader in the original "Star Wars" trilogy that left an indelible mark, even if Earl Jones wasn’t initially credited to honor David Prowse, who donned the iconic suit.
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