Matthew Broderick, known for voicing Simba in Disney's iconic The Lion King, has always cherished the bond he shared with the legendary James Earl Jones, who voiced Mufasa. Reflecting on their time together, Broderick expressed deep gratitude for having the opportunity to work with Jones, describing him as more than just a co-worker—he was a true mentor, both on and off-screen.
"I’m so lucky to have had a chance to work with James Earl Jones," Broderick shared with PEOPLE. "To have had him play my father, my king! And to get to know him a little bit," he added. The actor fondly recalls their interactions over the years, highlighting Jones' warmth and genuine nature. "I’d cross paths with him from time to time, and I was always so thrilled to see him." Those little moments meant the world to Broderick, as they reflected a special connection far beyond the film set.
James Earl Jones, with his deep, commanding voice, left an unforgettable mark not only on Broderick but on audiences worldwide. His performance as Mufasa in The Lion King wasn’t just a role—it was an embodiment of fatherhood, strength, and wisdom that resonated deeply with viewers. The 1994 animated classic and its 1998 follow-up, The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride, showcased the on-screen relationship between Mufasa and Simba, which mirrored the real-life admiration Broderick had for Jones.
"James was so open, with a broad grin and lots of laughter," Broderick remembered. "He had a genuine curiosity about others, which is far different from what you might expect from that austere, kingly, beautiful voice." That’s the thing about James Earl Jones—his persona was so much larger than life. While many admired him for his powerful, authoritative voice, Broderick cherished his humility and kindness, traits that made him a joy to be around.
It’s clear that Jones’ influence went beyond just being a co-star. Broderick noted that Jones was a great listener, a trait that made him stand out even more in an industry often driven by ego. "He was far different from what you might imagine," Broderick added, highlighting the contrast between Jones’ larger-than-life characters and his real-life warmth and humor.
As Broderick reflected on Jones’ illustrious career, he admitted it was nearly impossible to pick a favorite performance. Still, Jones' portrayal in Fences stood out to him. "His brilliant, frightening, heartbreaking performance in Fences might be my favorite, but there really are so many great performances in that long, magnificent career that it’s impossible to choose," Broderick said. He emphasized how Jones was not only one of the best of his generation but of any generation. "A great American actor," he concluded, a sentiment echoed by many who had the honor of working alongside him.
The impact of The Lion King would never have been the same without Jones’ voice as Mufasa. Roger Allers and Rob Minkoff, the directors of the groundbreaking film, were quick to acknowledge this. "His portrayal of Mufasa was absolute perfection, teaching a generation what fatherhood is all about," Minkoff shared. "I’m certain his powerful voice will continue rumbling through our living rooms, keeping his spirit alive for years to come."
That sentiment rings true. Even after his passing, James Earl Jones’ legacy endures through the iconic characters he brought to life. Whether it was Mufasa in The Lion King or the menacing Darth Vader in Star Wars, Jones had a way of making each role unforgettable. Disney CEO Bob Iger paid tribute to Jones by highlighting the weight his performances carried. "Some of the greatest characters in cinema history were voiced by James Earl Jones," Iger said in a statement. "A celebrated stage actor with nearly 200 film and television credits to his name, the stories he brought to life with a uniquely commanding presence and a true richness of spirit have left an indelible mark on generations of audiences."
Jones’ contributions to film, television, and theater are unparalleled. From his early roles on stage to his legendary voice work, he brought a level of gravitas and emotional depth to every project he touched. His work in Star Wars as Darth Vader alone solidified his place in pop culture history, and his Mufasa became a figure synonymous with wisdom, strength, and compassion.
Jim Cummings, another voice actor from The Lion King, also paid tribute to Jones by sharing a photo of the legendary actor on his Instagram Stories. Cummings, who voiced Ed, the hyena, also shared a clip of the voice actors in a recording booth, offering fans a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the magic that made The Lion King an enduring classic.
While the world mourns the loss of such an influential figure, it's heartwarming to hear from those who knew him personally. Broderick's words provide a glimpse into the man behind the iconic voice—a man full of warmth, curiosity, and humility. Broderick’s admiration for Jones as both a professional and a person is evident, and it’s clear that the two shared a bond that went beyond their work in The Lion King.
As the entertainment industry reflects on Jones' remarkable contributions, it's impossible to ignore the profound impact he had on the art of storytelling. His voice wasn't just a tool—it was an instrument that could evoke every emotion imaginable, from fear to compassion, strength to vulnerability.
In his tribute, Iger captured this sentiment perfectly: "On behalf of all of us at Disney, we extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. The stories he brought to life with a uniquely commanding presence and a true richness of spirit have left an indelible mark on generations of audiences."
James Earl Jones leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and influence actors, filmmakers, and audiences for years to come. Whether through his role as the wise and regal Mufasa or the menacing and iconic Darth Vader, Jones’ voice—and his spirit—will live on in the hearts of those who grew up with his unforgettable characters.
In the end, what resonates most is how deeply Jones touched those who knew him, both personally and professionally. "One of the very best of his or any generation," Broderick said. "A great American actor." And truly, that’s what Jones was—a towering figure in American cinema and theater whose influence will be felt for generations.
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