Denzel Washington Shares The Honestly Sweet Story Behind How His Friendship With Samuel L. Jackson Began, But It All Started With Someone Getting Fired

Denzel Washington Shares The Honestly Sweet Story Behind How His Friendship With Samuel L. Jackson Began, But It All Started With Someone Getting Fired

As a gamer who has spent countless hours immersed in the world of movies and their fascinating backstories, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia when hearing about Denzel Washington and Samuel L. Jackson’s friendship that spans over four decades. Their bond, forged in the heart of New York City’s theater scene, is truly an inspiration to us all – especially those who aspire to make it big in the industry like I do.


I didn’t realize that Denzel Washington and Samuel L. Jackson are more than just on-screen companions! Despite not working together for over three decades, they have managed to maintain a strong friendship. This was evident when Jackson received recognition at the Museum of Modern Art’s 16th annual Film Benefit; Washington took the opportunity to express heartfelt sentiments about his friend and recounted the origins of their special bond.

When Denzel Washington stepped onto the stage to celebrate Samuel L. Jackson, he kicked off his speech by declaring, “I humbly apologize, but Samuel Jackson is truly a remarkable individual,” – a phrase that Jackson is well-known for using in films. He then went on to discuss how their friendship dates back 45 years. (People magazine’s paraphrase of Washington’s words)

In a lesser-known Broadway play titled “Mighty Gents,” I served as an understudy. On opening night, they let go of the person I was covering. Consequently, I stepped into the limelight. His performance instilled in me the self-assurance to excel in my role. This, he is unaware of until now.

During the early stages of their acting careers, before either of them had achieved success in Hollywood movies, they encountered each other in New York City while both were working in theater. (Interestingly, Jackson didn’t become a household name until after he turned 40!) As Washington reminisced, he had been an understudy for a play called “The Mighty Gents” by Richard Wesley, before being given the opportunity to step into the role following the dismissal of the original cast member after the first night. For four decades, he never shared with Jackson that he was the one who boosted his confidence, but during the MoMA event, he took a moment to let the 75-year-old know this fact now. What a heartwarming gesture!

The two performers subsequently appeared in the 1990 Spike Lee movie titled “Mo’ Better Blues”. During a public appearance, Denzel Washington expressed that Zoe Jackson, daughter of Jackson, holds a special place similar to a “daughter” for him and his spouse.

Absolutely, my friend! Warmth and admiration are what I feel for you. You can always count on me. It brings me joy to be able to support you. I eagerly anticipate our meetings and collaborations. May good fortune be with you.

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Samuel L. Jackson has been candid about the limited number of films he’s still keen on working on, but there’s hope for another collaboration with Denzel Washington. The upcoming movie featuring Jackson is “The Piano Lesson,” which marks Malcolm Washington’s directorial debut – one of Denzel Washington’s sons. John David Washington, another son of Denzel, also stars in the film alongside Ray Fisher, Erykah Badu, Danielle Deadwyler, and Corey Hawkins. Notably, Denzel Washington is not only an actor in “The Piano Lesson,” but he also serves as its producer.

The Piano Lesson is coming to select theaters on November 8 and will be available for those with a Netflix subscription on November 22.

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2024-10-26 16:37