An acting legend and University of Michigan alumnus has passed away, and may be gone, but certainly will never be forgotten.
Hailing from the U-M class of 1955, famed actor James Earl Jones died at the age of 93 on Monday, and the tributes came pouring in. Whether it was his voice acting work as Darth Vader in the Star Wars franchise or as Mufasa in The Lion King, or his riveting roles in The Sandlot and Field of Dreams, fans took time to remember an icon in his craft.
Michigan football also paid tribute to Jones, noting his passing by posting the updated hype video that the team plays in The Big House before the team runs out of the tunnel. Jones narrated the video, which was first released in 2016 at former head coach Jim Harbaugh’s request.
Honoring the greatest voice in acting history and a Michigan icon. Rest in peace, James Earl Jones pic.twitter.com/1f9mIGC4HK
— Michigan Football (@UMichFootball) September 9, 2024
Harbaugh also weighed in after Jones’ death, noting his participation in the video as well as some of his iconic roles.
James Earl Jones has passed!
He carved a magical moment in our lives with his introduction of The Michigan football team each home game… “WE ARE MICHIGAN” and memories of my growing up with his part in “Sandlot” and “Field of Dreams” LEGEND!— Coach Harbaugh (@CoachJim4UM) September 10, 2024
There was no actor like him and certainly none with a voice like his. He will be missed.