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James Earl Jones, recognized the world over as intergalactic villain Darth Vader, passed away on Monday at the age of 93. The actor, who suffered from diabetes, died at his home surrounded by family members, his agent, Barry McPherson, said in a statement. However, no cause of death was provided.
As fans, former co-stars and celebrities honoured the late star’s memory, an X page shared an old behind-the-scenes clip from ‘Star Wars‘ that has given fans a fascinating glimpse into how Jones’ iconic voice changed David Prowse’s portrayal of Darth Vader, elevating the character to one of the most iconic villains in cinematic history.
The clip, which has been circulating online, shows Prowse—who physically embodied the Sith Lord—delivering lines on set in his natural English accent. Enter James Earl Jones, whose deep, menacing voice was added in post-production, completely transforming the tone of the scenes.Fans have long known that Jones’ commanding voice was crucial to the portrayal of Darth Vader, but this behind-the-scenes footage provides direct evidence of the profound impact it had on Prowse’s performance. While Prowse’s physical presence as Vader was undeniably imposing, it wasn’t until Jones’ voice was dubbed in that the character became the menacing figure we know today.
The clip has since gone viral and generated nearly 2 million views online.
As fans, former co-stars and celebrities honoured the late star’s memory, an X page shared an old behind-the-scenes clip from ‘Star Wars‘ that has given fans a fascinating glimpse into how Jones’ iconic voice changed David Prowse’s portrayal of Darth Vader, elevating the character to one of the most iconic villains in cinematic history.
The clip, which has been circulating online, shows Prowse—who physically embodied the Sith Lord—delivering lines on set in his natural English accent. Enter James Earl Jones, whose deep, menacing voice was added in post-production, completely transforming the tone of the scenes.Fans have long known that Jones’ commanding voice was crucial to the portrayal of Darth Vader, but this behind-the-scenes footage provides direct evidence of the profound impact it had on Prowse’s performance. While Prowse’s physical presence as Vader was undeniably imposing, it wasn’t until Jones’ voice was dubbed in that the character became the menacing figure we know today.
The clip has since gone viral and generated nearly 2 million views online.
It was reported that “Star Wars” creator George Lucas wanted a commanding voice for Darth Vader and first considered casting Orson Welles. He eventually decided that Welles was too recognizable and went with Jones.
When Jones was asked if he resented being so closely tied to Darth Vader, he said, “I love being part of that whole myth, of that whole cult.” He also revealed that he never made much money off the role role – only $9,000 for the first film – and said that he considered it merely a special effects job. He did not even ask to be in the credits of the first two ‘Star Wars’ movies.
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