In a statement obtained by multiple news outlets, Jones' rep, Barry McPherson, confirmed the news of his death. "He passed this morning surrounded by his loved ones. He was a great man." Jones had a long and successful career as an actor and voice actor, including the role of Darth Vader since the first Star Wars film in 1977. He didn't receive credit for the role until the third film - his own choice as he reportedly considered his part to be minor. (Actor Dave Prowse portrayed the character under the mask.).