James Earl Jones, who overcame racial prejudice and a severe stutter to become a celebrated icon of stage and screen – eventually lending his deep, commanding voice to Mufasa in The Lion King and Darth Vader in Star Wars – has died. James Earl Jones, who overcame racial prejudice and a severe stutter to become a celebrated icon of stage and screen – eventually lending his deep, commanding voice to Mufasa in The Lion King and Darth Vader in Star Wars – has died. Culture / Celebrity Sydney Morning Herald – Latest News