When Samuel L. Jackson was first approached about the role of Stephen in Quentin Tarantino’s film Django Unchained, he was initially hesitant to take on the character. The role of Stephen, a loyal and cunning house slave who serves as the right-hand man to plantation owner Calvin Candie, was a complex and challenging one for Jackson.
Jackson, known for his roles in a wide range of films including Pulp Fiction, Jackie Brown, and Shaft, had never played a character like Stephen before. The character of Stephen required Jackson to tap into a different side of his acting abilities and to portray a character that was both morally complex and deeply unsettling.
Despite his initial reservations, Jackson ultimately decided to take on the role of Stephen in Django Unchained. He was drawn to the opportunity to work with Quentin Tarantino and the talented cast of the film, which included Jamie Foxx, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Christoph Waltz.
As Jackson began to delve into the character of Stephen, he found himself grappling with the complexities of portraying a character who is both a victim of the oppressive system of slavery and a perpetrator of violence and betrayal. Jackson worked closely with Tarantino to develop Stephen’s backstory and motivations, and spent hours on set perfecting his performance.
In the end, Jackson’s portrayal of Stephen in Django Unchained was met with critical acclaim. His performance was praised for its nuance and depth, and Jackson was nominated for several awards for his work in the film.
Overall, Samuel L. Jackson’s first reaction to the role of Stephen in Django Unchained was one of hesitation and uncertainty. However, his dedication to his craft and his willingness to take on challenging roles ultimately led to a powerful and unforgettable performance.
