LaTanya Richardson Jackson recently revealed the challenges of directing her husband, acclaimed actor Samuel L. Jackson, in the 2022 Tony-nominated Broadway revival of "The Piano Lesson."
During an appearance on the April 8 episode of "Sherri," hosted by Sherri Shepherd, LaTanya candidly shared her experience of working with the Oscar-nominated actor in a professional setting. When asked if Samuel takes direction well, she playfully responded with a firm "No."
"Because he's so old, he thinks he knows everything," LaTanya explained. "He's been there, done that, and [thinks] 'who are you?'"
As the director, LaTanya had to establish clear boundaries and authority on set. "In this room, it's about what I say," she recalled telling her husband, emphasizing the importance of setting the tone for the entire cast. When Samuel's veteran status occasionally came into play during production, LaTanya would simply wave her hand and direct him, "Okay, go sit over there then, because we're over here working."
The couple, who met while attending Spelman and Morehouse colleges respectively, has been married for over 50 years. Their daughter Zoe, 43, was surprised to see her mother maintaining traditional domestic roles even while directing her father, questioning why she still prepared his meals.
"I've been married 50-something years. Of course I fix his plate," LaTanya responded matter-of-factly, demonstrating how she balances her professional and personal life with her husband.
Samuel also stars in Netflix's movie adaptation of "The Piano Lesson," and recently showed support for LaTanya by attending the opening of her latest project, "Purpose," where she plays Claudine Jasper.