James Earl Jones, the iconic actor who brought to life the beloved character of King Jaffe Joffer in the classic comedy film “Coming to America,” has passed away at the age of 93, his agent announced on Monday.
Gatekeepers News reports that Jones, who died surrounded by his family, had a prolific career spanning over six decades, with notable roles in films such as “Field of Dreams,” “Conan the Barbarian,” and “Star Wars,” where he voiced the iconic villain Darth Vader.
However, it was his role as King Jaffe Joffer, the father of Eddie Murphy’s character Prince Akeem, in “Coming to America” that endeared him to many fans. Jones’ commanding presence and authoritative voice brought gravity and humor to the film, making him a beloved character in the classic comedy.
Throughout his career, Jones won numerous awards, including Emmys, Tony Awards, a Grammy, and an honorary Oscar. He was also a renowned stage actor, tackling iconic Shakespeare characters such as Othello and King Lear.