Samuel L. Jackson has a message for all the Oscar-obsessed actors in Hollywood: relax.
In an honest interview on the Mad, Sad & Bad podcast, the iconic 76-year-old actor reminded everyone why he remains one of the coolest and most grounded stars in the game. When asked about his approach to roles, Jackson made it clear he’s not chasing statues, he’s chasing stories that he wants to see.
“I do movies that I want to go see,” Jackson said. “I do popcorn movies. I don’t do movies that I’m going to get an Oscar for or a statue for.”
The Pulp Fiction legend, who received an Honorary Academy Award in 2021 for his legendary body of work, didn’t shy away from calling out what he sees as an obsession in the industry.
“People like that statue chasing all the time.”
Jackson has always marched to the beat of his own drum. While many actors seek prestige projects and Oscar bait, Jackson has made a career out of doing what feels right to him and what audiences want to watch. That means diving into franchises like Marvel and Star Wars, but also going full throttle with cult classics like Coach Carter or Shaft.
@madsadbadpodcast “People are out there statue chasing all the time” 👀 Samuel L. Jackson on picking roles for the love of acting vs. Wanting an Oscar. Gotta respect it!!! Search ‘Mad, Sad & Bad Samuel L. Jackson’ on YouTube, Spotify and Apple for the full episode. @paloma faith #samuelljackson #snakesonaplane #oscars ♬ original sound – madsadbad
“I pick a little wacky movies to do, like Snakes on the Plane… Things that make me happy that I would have gone to the movie to see,” he added.
Jackson also talked about his work ethic. While some might label him a workaholic, he just sees himself as a passionate actor making the most of every opportunity.
“As an actor, there’s only a limited number of roles you’re going to do in your lifetime. I only get up every day and act. So if I have the opportunity to do it, I do it.”
Even though his agents say he’s past the audition phase of his career, Jackson admitted he misses the grind of auditioning, just for the joy of acting.
“It’s a chance to act for somebody,” he said. “No, I’m not a workaholic. I’m just a hardworking actor. Fortunate actor. Fortunate actors work all the time.”
At this point, Jackson has done it all. From The Long Kiss Goodnight to Django Unchained, from The Avengers to The Incredibles, he’s shown range, charisma, and an unshakable sense of self.
And clearly, he’s not slowing down anytime soon.
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