James Earl Jones, renowned for portraying some of the most iconic villains in film history, forged an unlikely friendship with Arnold Schwarzenegger during the production of Conan the Barbarian. While Jones was known for his commanding and intimidating on-screen presence, off-camera he was a generous and supportive mentor. He took Schwarzenegger under his wing, offering career advice that would prove invaluable to the aspiring actor. Jones’ wisdom and guidance had a lasting impact on Schwarzenegger, helping him navigate the film industry and develop into the global star he would become.
Best known for his legendary voice as Darth Vader in Star Wars and his commanding portrayal of the sorcerer Thulsa Doom in Conan the Barbarian, Jones’ career spanned decades, earning him admiration for his powerful performances. He brought depth and gravitas to every role, making him a beloved figure both on and off-screen. His passing at the age of 93 marked the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy of cinematic greatness and unforgettable characters that will continue to inspire future generations of actors and fans alike.
Schwarzenegger, then a newcomer to acting, fondly recalled Jones’ kindness during the production of Conan the Barbarian. “When we filmed Conan, I was the new kid on the block, and [Jones] couldn’t have been more welcoming,” Schwarzenegger shared on social media. Jones’ guidance, combined with Schwarzenegger’s natural physicality, played a pivotal role in launching the latter’s action movie career.
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Early Struggles
At the time of Conan the Barbarian’s filming, Schwarzenegger was better known for his bodybuilding accomplishments than his acting. He had already won the prestigious Mr. Olympia title six times and starred in the 1977 documentary Pumping Iron. However, his transition from bodybuilding to acting was anything but smooth. His thick Austrian accent and lack of formal acting experience made delivering lines challenging.
Although Schwarzenegger had some acting experience before Conan, he had never starred in a major production. His massive physique made him an ideal fit for the role of Conan, a warrior character first introduced by writer Robert E. Howard in the 1930s. Because of his size, finding a stunt double was impossible. Schwarzenegger had to learn several demanding skills for the role, including horseback riding, sword fighting, and rope climbing. Beyond the physical challenges, his most significant obstacle was mastering his lines, which he rehearsed over 40 times before shooting certain scenes.
Jones’ Mentorship and Impact
By the time Conan the Barbarian was filmed, Jones had already cemented his status as a legendary actor. He had won a Tony Award for Best Actor for The Great White Hope in 1969 and received widespread recognition for his role in the 1974 film Claudine. Moreover, his unmistakable voice had already become iconic through his portrayal of Darth Vader in Star Wars.
On set, Jones generously offered Schwarzenegger advice on how to improve his line delivery. The veteran actor would often rehearse lines with Schwarzenegger in his trailer, patiently helping the newcomer refine his craft. Schwarzenegger acknowledged Jones’ mentorship, saying, “He was always willing to read lines with me and gave perfect acting advice. He was a fantastic mentor who taught me about acting and Hollywood.”
In return, Schwarzenegger provided Jones with fitness tips. The two actors often worked out together, with Schwarzenegger helping Jones and his wife with exercise routines during their downtime. Jones humorously recalled how strenuous the workouts were, saying they were tough but helpful.
A Dangerous Stunt and a Legacy
Conan the Barbarian became a cult classic largely due to its practical effects and violent stunts, including an unforgettable scene where Schwarzenegger’s Conan beheads Jones’ character, Thulsa Doom. This scene, though dangerous, showcased the trust and professionalism between the two actors. Jones trusted Schwarzenegger enough to allow him to perform the stunt repeatedly without using a double. Despite the dangers, Jones stood his ground during filming, with Schwarzenegger explaining that they had practiced the scene numerous times to ensure everyone’s safety.
Conan the Barbarian proved to be a financial success, earning nearly $69 million worldwide and leading to a 1984 sequel, *Conan the Destroyer*. The film’s success also cemented Schwarzenegger’s rise in Hollywood, leading to even bigger roles in The Terminator (1984), *Commando* (1985), and Predator (1987). Despite his initial struggles with acting, Schwarzenegger’s performance in Conan showed his potential as a future action star.
Enduring Legacy of Conan the Barbarian
James Earl Jones took immense pride in his role as Thulsa Doom in Conan the Barbarian, likening the film’s grandeur to that of a Shakespearean drama. For Jones, the movie wasn’t just an action-packed fantasy; it tapped into the timeless themes of epic adventure and human struggle. He saw parallels between Conan the Barbarian and his previous work in Star Wars, noting how both films explored universal concepts of heroism, destiny, and the battle between good and evil. The scale and depth of Conan the Barbarian allowed Jones to bring a gravitas to his character that transcended typical villain roles, making Thulsa Doom a complex and memorable antagonist.
Beyond his performance, Jones also played a crucial role off-screen. His experience and professionalism made him a mentor to the younger cast members, particularly Arnold Schwarzenegger, who was still early in his acting career at the time. Jones’ guidance and support left a lasting impression on Schwarzenegger, helping him grow as an actor. The dynamic between their characters, coupled with Jones’ behind-the-scenes influence, elevated the film’s legacy. This mentorship, along with his powerful portrayal of Thulsa Doom, cemented Jones’ contribution to Conan the Barbarian as pivotal both on and off the screen.
Thanks to the collaboration between a talented cast and crew, Conan the Barbarian remains a beloved cult classic, ensuring the legacy of James Earl Jones continues to thrive for future generations. Jones’ portrayal of the menacing villain, Thulsa Doom, is iconic, showcasing his deep, commanding voice and powerful screen presence. The film, blending fantasy and adventure, captivated audiences with its unique storytelling and unforgettable performances. As a result, it solidified its place in pop culture history, preserving Jones’ contribution to cinema and inspiring new generations to appreciate his exceptional talent and the film’s lasting impact.
