About
Samuel L. Jackson is an American actor and film producer, widely recognized as one of the most prolific and versatile actors of his generation. His films have collectively grossed over $27 billion worldwide, making him the highest-grossing actor of all time. In 2022, he received the Academy Honorary Award for his significant contributions to the film industry. Jackson is known for his dynamic performances and memorable characters.
Career Timeline
Pulp Fiction Breakthrough
Jackson's iconic performance as Jules Winnfield in Pulp Fiction earned him an Oscar nomination and became a cultural landmark. His 'Ezekiel 25:17' speech became one of cinema's most quoted moments, transforming him from character actor to star.
Jackie Brown and Action Roles
Reuniting with Tarantino for Jackie Brown while starring in action films like The Long Kiss Goodnight, Jackson became a versatile leading man. His commanding presence made him a go-to choice for both serious dramas and blockbusters.
Star Wars Prequel Trilogy
Jackson's role as Mace Windu in the Star Wars prequels introduced him to a new generation and significantly boosted his earnings. Despite mixed reception of the prequels, his character became iconic and added to his pop culture legacy.
Iron Man and MCU Launch
Jackson's appearance as Nick Fury in Iron Man's post-credits scene launched his central role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. This nine-film deal would become the most lucrative of his career and make him ubiquitous in pop culture.
The Avengers Phenomenon
The Avengers grossed $1.5 billion worldwide with Jackson's Nick Fury playing a key role in assembling the team. His MCU appearances became some of the highest-grossing films ever, cementing his status as a global icon.
Highest-Grossing Actor Record
Jackson officially became the highest-grossing actor of all time, with his films collectively grossing over $7.4 billion domestically. His prolific output combined with blockbuster franchises created an unprecedented box office record.
Captain Marvel and Endgame
Jackson starred in Captain Marvel (grossing $1.1 billion) and appeared in Avengers: Endgame (grossing $2.8 billion). These films further solidified his record as the highest-grossing actor while introducing him to younger audiences worldwide.
Honorary Academy Award
Jackson received an Honorary Academy Award for his contributions to cinema, recognizing his impact despite never winning a competitive Oscar. The award acknowledged his status as a cultural icon and one of cinema's most influential actors.
Legendary Box Office King
Jackson remains the highest-grossing actor of all time with films totaling over $27 billion worldwide. At 77, he continues working prolifically in both blockbusters and prestige projects, maintaining his status as a global cultural icon and household name across multiple generations.
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Last updated: February 23, 2026