Samuel L. Jackson wants to debunk a myth about the Academy Awards, namely the humility of creatives who say they are honored just to receive a nod.
In a recent interview with the Associated press promoting Netflix’s August Wilson adaptation The piano lesson, The MCU actor joked that he’s been in the business long enough to ride out the Oscars race and any potential buzz or hype about a project or role.
“People will say, ‘Well, it’s just an honor to be nominated.’ No, it’s not,” Jackson said, causing co-star Michael Potts and the interviewer to chuckle off-screen. “It’s an honor to win.”
He continued: “If you get nominated, people will say, ‘Yes, I remember that,’ otherwise most people forget.”
Ironically, Jackson was presented with an honorary Oscar by longtime friend Denzel Washington at the 2022 Governors Awards. He is also nominated for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Quentin Tarantino’s groundbreaking film Pulp Fiction.
“Generally speaking, it’s a competition you don’t enter voluntarily,” Jackson continued. “I didn’t go in there so I could bow, ‘Wait a minute, let me do my scene here.’ Wait a minute, let me make sure you remember who I was.” No, they nominate you and people ask, “What is that movie they nominated it for?” What’s that thing called?’ And when it’s over, people have a hard time remembering who won in the first place.”
The multi-hyphenate has previously spoken about the complex relationship he previously had with Hollywood’s biggest night, telling the Los Angeles Times in 2022 that he has since moved on from using awards as a measure of success.
“I never intended for the Oscars to be a measure of my success or failure as an actor,” he said at the time. “My measure of success is my happiness: am I satisfied with what I do? I don’t make films that chase images. You know [whispers]”If you make this movie, you’ll win an Oscar.” No, thanks. I’d rather be Nick Fury. Or have fun as Mace Windu with a lightsaber in my hand.”
The piano lesson is adapted from Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play of the same name as part of his Century Cycle – 10 entries covering different decades of the black experience in the 20th century. Directed by Malcolm Washington, the film follows siblings Boy Willie (John David Washington) and Berniece (Danielle Deadwyler), who must grapple with difficult decisions when they face each other over whether they should own an heirloom piano that documents their family’s legacy. In addition to the feature, the streamer adjusted Wilson’s Ma Rainey’s black pants.
As for Jackson, the veteran is booked and busy, with a list of upcoming titles: The honest liar, a mysterious JJ Abrams movie and The Beastcurrently shooting abroad.
