The Star Wars fans will sadly no longer hear the iconic voice behind Darth Vader. The actor who lent his voice to the character in the original trilogy and multiple TV series — James Earl Jones — passed away this Monday aged 93. Amid the moments of grief, former NBA star Magic Johnson joined the many in expressing his pain at the great loss.

Taking to his official account on X, Johnson penned that it was deeply saddening news for him and his wife. “James became one of our favorite actors when he starred in “Claudine” back in 1974, and we loved him as the voice of Darth Vader in the “Star Wars” series and the classic “Coming to America”!” he wrote on X.

Further in the post, the 5x NBA champ extended prayers for the bereaved family, friends, and loved ones.

Multiple fans of the LA Lakers icon responded to his post, sharing a mutual feeling with that of Magic Johnson. “what a legend he was….Mufasa being my favorite character played by him,” wrote one X user. For those who are unaware, yes, Jones also lent his voice to Mufasa in The Lion King.

Amid all the fans regretting the great loss, yet another ex-NBA star extended his message of condolence. Rex Chapman re-shared a fan’s post featuring Jones, giving voice to one of Frederick Douglass’ speeches. “Rest in peace, James Earl Jones…” Chapman wrote.

Having had a profound impact on the film industry as a two-time Emmys and a Grammy awardee, Octavia Spencer, CNN — whose tagline ‘This is CNN,’ he was a voice of — Kevin Costner, LeVar Burton, and numerous more from the Hollywood extended their condolences over the icon’s passing.

As informed by his relatives, the 93-year-old took his last breath at his home in Dutchess County, New York. However, no cause of death has been provided so far by the relatives.

James Earl Jones on being closely associated with a negative for a long duration

Once asked by a BBC interviewer if he felt burdened by being forever linked with Darth Vader, Jones chuckled in his response. “I love being part of that whole myth, of that whole cult,” he told the interviewer. Showing no resentment for a role that required only his voice while another actor — David Prowse — donned the iconic black costume.

Jones seemed to relish the association, even if it meant being known as one of cinema’s greatest villains. He never shied away from fans who eagerly requested a recitation of his iconic line — “I am your father.” Delivered with the unmistakable gravitas that only Jones could provide.

Despite the immense popularity of the Star Wars saga, Jones revealed he didn’t earn much from voicing Darth Vader. Just $9,000 for the first film. He saw it merely as a “special effects job.” And didn’t even ask to be credited in the first two movies. But his legacy extended far beyond the galaxy far, far away.

Stay tuned for more such updates. And join us for the exciting second episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and Mountain West All-Freshman Team Selection, Asia Avinger.