Kevin Costner Pays Tribute to the Late James Earl Jones

We lost a good one this week when James Earl Jones passed away.

Jones was the voice of Darth Vader in “Star Wars,” a small special effects part that would become one of the earmarks of his career.

Of course, he was also involved in some of the biggest blockbusters on the big screen, one of which was made with Kevin Costner, who paid tribute to his former co-star.

A Legend is Gone

Jones was hardly the star he was at his passing when he was recruited to do the voice of Darth Vader.

That role, however, became a fan favorite even though Jones spent less than three hours working on the first movie.

One of my favorite sports movies of all time, “Field of Dreams,” also starred Jones and Kevin Costner.

Generations of stars on TV, the big screen, and the stage who worked with Jones or simply idolized the man for his talent and inspiration paid tribute.

Costner had the privilege of working with Jones on what many consider one of the greatest baseball movies of our time.

He wrote, "Just hearing the news of James Earl Jones's passing. That booming voice. That quiet strength.

"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.

“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 cornfield in Iowa.

“I'm grateful to have been a witness to him making that magic happen. Rest in peace, friend."

Matthew Broderick, who voiced Simba in “The Lion King” opposite Jones’ Mufasa, also paid tribute, stating, "I'm so lucky to have had a chance to work with James Earl Jones.

“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."

The man was a true legend… rest in peace.