What James Earl Jones had to say about love, respect and his extraordinary career

A "young at heart" James Earl Jones felt thankful looking back on his extraordinary career.

Celebrating his landmark 90th birthday in 2021, the gifted "Field of Dreams" actor with the iconic bass voice told USA TODAY he was "feeling fantastic and grateful at 90 years old. Looking back at my life and extensive career, I am so proud of my work and accomplishments. I love growing older and wiser with time."

Jones died Monday at 93 years old, his representative, Barry McPherson, confirmed to USA TODAY. A cause of death was not disclosed.

"He passed this morning surrounded by his loved ones," McPherson said Monday. "He was a great man."

The legendary actor of the Broadway stage and screen, with the iconic, commanding voice, made vocal appearances with two of his most famous characters in recent years — king of the Pride Lands, Mufasa, in 2019's "Lion King" remake and Lord Vader in 2019's "Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker."

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The Oscar-nominated Jones also reprised his role as King Jaffe Joffer in 2021's "Coming 2 America," the king of (fictional) Zamunda and father to Prince Hakeem (Eddie Murphy).

James Earl Jones,acclaimed 'Field of Dreams' actor and voice of Darth Vader, dies at 93

Director Craig Brewer told USA TODAY at the time that when Jones appeared on the set to shoot his role, it was like real royalty visiting.

"We were very quiet and very reverential," said Brewer. "And then (costume designer) Ruth Carter broke the ice and said, 'James Earl Jones, ladies and gentlemen!' The whole crew just applauded and this smile came to his face."

Jones told USA TODAY he was "honored" to return to the role from the 1988 original comedy "Coming to America" and "touched by their reaction. Being on set brought back the wonderful memories. And to see so many familiar faces again was pure joy."

James Earl Jonesremembered by 'Star Wars' co-star Mark Hamill, George Lucas, more

As far as life lessons gleaned from getting older, Jones said it's all about experience in terms of getting through tough times.

"I can say that those of us who have lived 90 years have no right to be surprised,"  Jones wrote. 

He also vowed to pray for better times ahead: "In order for us to heal and move forward, we need to learn to love and respect each other. That will be my wish when I blow out my birthday candles.”

While his prolific work had slowed in recent years, Jones insisted, "I feel young at heart, and I love to work and will continue to act for as long as I can."

Jones was an acclaimed star of stage and screen, winning Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony awards, though later his unmistakable voice became as famous as his usually smiling face. He invited generations of TV viewers with the signature "This is CNN" line for the cable news channel, had parental gravitas in "The Lion King" and its 2019 remake, but was most famous for his signature lines ("I am your father") as Vader.

Contributing: Brian Truitt and Edward Segarra