Celebrity Tributes to James Earl Jones: Mark Hamill, George Lucas & More
Hollywood is reacting to the news of James’ death. As they continue to honor him, read the celebrity tributes to the late ‘Lion King’ actor, here.
Hollywood is mourning the late James Earl Jones. Known for his roles in The Lion King and the Star Wars franchise, the legend was also known for his television narrations. As most celebrities have mentioned in their individual tributes to James, the Field of Dreams star is being honored for his contributions to the entertainment industry in addition to his personality.
Read all of the celebrity tributes to James, below.
Mark Hamill
#RIP dad 💔 https://t.co/YXpFoBb2Ua
— Mark Hamill (@MarkHamill) September 9, 2024
Mark took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to share a headline of James’ death. Alongside the post, Mark tweeted, “RIP dad” with a broken heart emoji.
George Lucas
“ You were right about me. Tell your sister you were right”
Fair well old friend.
— George W Lucas (@GeorgeLucasILM) September 10, 2024
The Star Wars franchise filmmaker tweeted a tribute to James, which read, “‘You were right about me. Tell your sister you were right.’ Fair well, old friend.”
Matthew Broderick
According to a statement obtained by PEOPLE, Matthew reflected on working alongside James in The Lion King. Matthew voiced the role of Simba, and James voiced Mufasa.
“I’m so lucky to have had a chance to work with James Earl Jones,” the Broadway alum told the outlet. “To have had him play my father, my king! And to get to know him a little bit. I’d cross paths with him from time to time over the years and I was always so thrilled to see him.”
Matthew also pointed out that James “was a great listener.”
“Far different from what you might imagine from that austere, kingly, beautiful voice,” he added. “His brilliant, frightening, heartbreaking performance in Fences might be my favorite, but there really are so many great performances in that long, magnificent career it’s impossible to choose a favorite. One of the very best of his or any generation. A great American actor.”
Kevin Costner
The Yellowstone alum penned an Instagram note in honor of James, remembering the late actor for his “booming voice,” his “quiet strength” and “the kindness that he radiated.”
“So much can be said about his legacy, so I’ll just say how thankful I am that part of it includes Field of Dreams,” Kevin wrote. “If you’ve seen it, you know that this movie wouldn’t be the same with anyone else in his role. Only he could bring that kind of magic to a movie about baseball and a corn field in Iowa. I’m grateful to have been a witness to him making that magic happen. Rest in peace, friend.”
Octavia Spencer
Octavia shared a headshot of James via Instagram and paid tribute to his “legendary” talent in her caption.
“I’m incredibly saddened to learn of #JamesEarlJones’ passing today,” she wrote. “Legendary doesn’t even begin to describe his iconic roles and impact on cinema forever. His voice and talent will be remembered always. Sending love to his family, friends and countless fans in all the galaxies, far, far away.”