Renowned American actor James Earl Jones, notably known for his roles as Star Wars villain Darth Vader and Disney’s The Lion King’s Mufasa, has died aged 93.

The acclaimed thespian died at his residence in upstate New York on Monday, with his family by his side.

Born on January 17, 1931, in Mississippi, James Earl Jones studied drama at the University of Michigan.

He first gained recognition in the film and television industry with his remarkable performances and distinctive deep voice. In 1968, one of his earliest and most significant breakthroughs came with his role as Jack Jefferson in the film adaptation of the Broadway play The Great White Hope. His portrayal of the boxer earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.

Jones became a legendary actor with his iconic deep voice, notably as Darth Vader in the original Star Wars film. He is also widely known for his role as Mufasa in Disney’s The Lion King, where he added warmth and emotional depth to the character.

Among his other notable roles are Admiral James Greer in The Hunt for Red October (1990) and King Jaffe Joffer in Coming to America (1988), showcasing his versatility in both dramas and comedies.

Throughout his career, Jones received numerous accolades, including Academy Award nominations, Tony Awards for his stage performances, and a Primetime Emmy Award for his work in Roots (1977). He was also honoured with the Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award in 2002 and the National Medal of Arts in 2011, reflecting his enduring impact on both stage and screen.