Answer: James Earl Jones

Accomplished actor James Early Jones will likely go down in history as the deep and ominous voice of Darth Vader–the infamous Star Wars villain–a voice acting role he originally had no intention of taking credit for.

During the late 1970s, voice acting was largely considered movie special effect, a flourish layered over the actual work of acting in the film. As such, it was uncommon for voice actors to take credit for their work. In light of the fact that the actual physical Darth Vader was played by English strong man David Prowse, James Earl Jones declined to be billed in the first and second Star Wars films as the voice of Darth Vader. Despite fans and critics alike identifying and praising Jones’ voice as providing depth to Darth Vader, Jones kept silent about his role as the voice of the villain.

By the time the third movie was approaching release in 1983, it was widely assumed Jones was the voice of Vader. With little doubt remaining he was the rumbling voice behind the black mask, Jones relented and allowed his name to be included in the credits.