Samuel L. Jackson, an iconic figure in Hollywood, has also made a notable presence on the Broadway stage. His powerful voice, captivating presence, and ability to embody a wide range of characters have captivated audiences on Broadway, further cementing his reputation as a versatile and accomplished actor.
Jackson's Broadway debut came in 2011 with the play "The Mountaintop," where he portrayed legendary civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. The play received critical acclaim, and Jackson's performance was praised for its depth and emotional resonance. His portrayal of King earned him a Drama League Award for Distinguished Performance and a nomination for the Tony Award for Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Play.
In 2012, Jackson returned to Broadway in the August Wilson revival "Two Trains Running." Set in a 1960s Pittsburgh lunchroom, the play explored themes of race, class, and gentrification. Jackson's portrayal of Sterling, a sardonic bartender, was lauded for its humor and insight, further solidifying his reputation as a master stage performer.
In 2018, Jackson took on the role of Doaker Charles in the Broadway revival of August Wilson's Pulitzer Prize-winning play "The Piano Lesson." Set in 1930s Pittsburgh, the play follows the intertwined lives of a family grappling with the legacy of slavery and the importance of family heirlooms. Jackson's portrayal of Doaker, the patriarch of the family, was praised for its strength and vulnerability, adding another layer to his impressive Broadway repertoire.