The Quentin Tarantino Role Samuel L. Jackson Loves Most

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Samuel L. Jackson and Quentin Tarantino have collaborated on many successful films since they first worked together on Pulp Fiction in 1994. Over the years, Jackson has appeared in six of Tarantino’s movies, playing a wide variety of characters – from thoughtful assassins to ruthless bounty hunters. Although many fans consider Jules Winnfield to be his most iconic role, Jackson surprisingly favors a more divisive character from Tarantino’s 2012 film, Django Unchained.

In a recent interview with Esquire, Samuel L. Jackson revealed he feels a strong connection to the character of Stephen, the cruel and controlling house slave at the Candyland plantation.

While Leonardo DiCaprio’s character, Calvin Candie, is seen as the main villain, Jackson believes Stephen was the one truly in charge. He explained that Stephen was the one who actually managed the entire plantation, overseeing everything from the farming to the finances.

Jackson was captivated by the villain’s intricate personality and his twisted devotion to his leader. He realized Stephen saw Candie as a son, having raised him since birth, and would do anything to maintain his own power within that cruel environment.

Jackson considered the role a fascinating challenge – playing the mastermind behind an oppressive system – and it became his most enjoyable project working with Tarantino.

Samuel L. Jackson is still a major presence in Hollywood, especially after the successful release of The Piano Lesson in August. He’s reprising his acclaimed stage role as Doaker Charles in this historical drama, alongside John David Washington, telling a story about a family’s past and their strength. Critics have praised Jackson’s performance as the heart of the film. He’s also joined the cast of J.J. Abrams’ new science-fantasy movie, The Great Beyond, which is expected to come out in November and stars Glen Powell and Jenna Ortega.

Jackson is growing his presence within the interconnected world of Taylor Sheridan’s shows with a starring role in the NOLA King spin-off of Tulsa King. The new series, set against the backdrop of New Orleans’ corrupt criminal world, represents his first significant move into the realistic, character-focused dramas that have become popular lately.

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2026-02-13 18:45