JAMES EARL JONES Passes Away Age 93

 The world lost a legendary actor last night, with the sad news of James Earl Jones’ passing at the age of 93. Best known as the voice of Darth Vader in Star Wars and Mufasa in The Lion King, the oscar-nominated star had an illustrious career in Hollywood, making his feature film debut in Stanley Kubrick's Dr. Strangelove. Upon learning of Jones’ passing his friends, co-stars and peers would reflect on the impact he had on the industry, posting mournful messages in tribute to the star.

Amongst these, Star Wars co-star Mark Hamill, along with creator George Lucas would pay their tributes, having this to say:

Mark Hamill: “One of the world’s finest actors whose contributions to Star Wars were immeasurable. He’ll be greatly missed. #RIP dad 💔”

George Lucas: "James was an incredible actor, a most unique voice both in art and spirit. For nearly half a century he was Darth Vader, but the secret to it all is he was a beautiful human being. He gave depth, sincerity and meaning to all his roles, amongst the most important being a devoted husband to the late Ceci and dad to Flynn. James will be missed by so many of us...friends and fans alike.”

Jones’ Star Wars colleagues weren't the only ones to pay their respects to the legendary star, with Field of Dreams co-star Kevin Costner posting the following on Instagram:

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

I'd like to extend my sincere condolences to James Earl Jones’ family and friends during this sad time.

MUFASA: THE LION KING Gets FIRST Official Trailer at D23

Having been officially announced back at Disney's D23 expo in 2022, The Lion King prequel has become a curious entry on the cinematic calendar, with the Mufasa centred backstory being full of potential. This year's expo would see further light shed on the upcoming film, with the studio releasing its first official trailer at the event.

The trailer focuses on the rise of Mufasa from an orphan, being taken in by the family of the young lion prince, Taka (who later becomes known as Scar). Told as a story to Kiara, the granddaughter of Mufasa, by the mandrill Rafiki, the film will focus on the bonding friendship of the two lions, with the threat of the formidable white lion, Kiros, looking pivotal to their future.

On the whole the trailer proves a little conflicting, as despite giving an intriguing sight into Mufasa and Scar's backstory, the younger voice cast takes away from the imposing presence both characters had in the original film. Nonetheless there is plenty to entice, with the trailer highlighting some ironic aspects of the two lions past, having the potential to paint a different picture of both.

Mufasa: The Lion King is set to arrive in cinemas December 20th.