10 fun and interesting Samuel L. Jackson facts

1. From Doorman to Hollywood Star

Before becoming one of the most recognizable faces in Hollywood, Samuel L. Jackson worked as a doorman at the famous Chateau Marmont apartment complex in Los Angeles, where many of his future colleagues in the film industry lived. It was here that he got his first taste of the glamorous life of a Hollywood actor, and it was this experience that inspired him to pursue a career in acting.

Also → Jackson, named after General Andrew Jackson

2. Before His Breakout Role, an Addicted Drug User

Before his breakout role in the 1991 movie "Jungle Fever," Samuel L. Jackson was an admitted drug addict. He had been struggling with addiction for years, but was able to turn his life around and complete rehab in 1991. His portrayal of a drug addict in the movie was a testament to his own personal journey and his ability to overcome his addiction.

Also → Grant Hill's son is named after Michael Jackson

3. Stand-in for Bill Cosby

During the filming of the iconic '80s sitcom, "The Cosby Show", Samuel L. Jackson had the unique opportunity to work as a stand-in for Bill Cosby. Jackson was tasked with taking Cosby's place during rehearsals and camera blocking, allowing the show's crew to get the perfect shot. This experience was a major stepping stone in Jackson's career, as it gave him the chance to work with some of the most talented people in the industry.

Also → Hollywood Backs Grand Theft Auto Series

4. From Stutter to Stardom

As a young man, Samuel L. Jackson had a severe stutter that made it difficult for him to communicate. In an effort to help him overcome his speech impediment, his speech therapist suggested he audition for a play. To his surprise, the experience of performing on stage had a profound effect on his stutter, and he was so inspired by the experience that he changed his major to focus on acting. His speech therapist's suggestion ultimately changed the course of his life and career.

Also → Glenda Jackson in "Marat" for RSC

5. Samuel L. Jackson Launches Career with 'Pulp Fiction'

At the age of 46, Samuel L. Jackson's career was catapulted to stardom with his iconic role as Jules Winnfield in the 1994 classic, Pulp Fiction. His performance in the movie earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor, and since then, he has become one of the most recognizable and beloved actors in Hollywood.

Also → Andrew Jackson's Historic Victory

6. Samuel L. Jackson is the Highest-Grossing Actor in the World

In 2006, Samuel L. Jackson was the highest-grossing actor in the world, with his films having earned an incredible $4.4 billion at the box office. This was more than any other actor in the world, and cemented his place as one of the most successful and iconic actors of all time. His films have continued to be popular and successful, and his career shows no signs of slowing down.

Also → Vincent Jackson Joins Northern Colorado

7. No Stranger to the Wild Side of Acting

Samuel L. Jackson is no stranger to the wild side of acting. During his career, he has been eaten by both a dinosaur and a shark! In the 1995 blockbuster, Jurassic Park, Jackson played the role of Ray Arnold, a park technician who was devoured by a Tyrannosaurus Rex. In the 2004 film, Deep Blue Sea, Jackson played the role of Russell Franklin, a corporate executive who was eaten by a great white shark. Both of these iconic roles have cemented Jackson's place in Hollywood history.

Also → James K. Polk: Early Advocate of Andrew Jackson

8. A Vegetarian Who's Made a Difference

Samuel L. Jackson is a vegetarian, a fact that may come as a surprise to many. The acclaimed actor has been a vegetarian for over 30 years, and is a passionate advocate for animal rights. He has spoken out against the use of fur in fashion, and has even gone so far as to donate to animal rights organizations. Jackson's commitment to animal welfare is an admirable example of how one person can make a difference.

9. Golfing Superfan

No matter what movie he's filming or where he's working, Samuel L. Jackson makes sure he has quick and easy access to a golf course - he loves golfing that much! He's so passionate about the sport that he'll go out of his way to make sure he can hit the links whenever he has the chance. Whether it's a quick nine holes during a break in filming or a full 18-hole round on the weekend, Jackson is always ready to hit the green.

10. Samuel L. Jackson Gets Star Wars Role

When George Lucas heard Samuel L. Jackson's interview on the radio, he was so impressed that he offered him a role in the highly anticipated "Star Wars: Episode 1 – The Phantom Menace". Jackson had previously expressed his desire to work with Lucas, and the director was so taken with his enthusiasm that he decided to give him a chance to be part of the iconic franchise.