Samuel L. Jackson on 44 Years of Marriage: ‘Tolerance and Understanding Are Key’

In a heartfelt interview, the iconic actor shares the wisdom gained from over four decades of marriage, emphasizing tolerance, acceptance, and the commitment to grow together through life's challenges.

The actor shares candid insights into his enduring relationship with LaTanya Richardson, emphasizing the importance of acceptance, patience, and commitment through life’s challenges.


In a revealing cover story for the October/November 2024 issue of AARP The Magazine, Samuel L. Jackson opened up about the secrets behind his long-lasting marriage to LaTanya Richardson Jackson. The couple, who have celebrated over 44 years of marriage, have navigated their fair share of challenges and “crazy” moments, yet their commitment to one another remains steadfast.

Reflecting on their journey together, the 75-year-old Piano Lesson actor acknowledged that every marriage has its imperfections. “A lot of tolerance” has been essential, he noted, recognizing that “everybody’s got flaws” and the key is not to give up when it would be easy to do so. Jackson remarked, “You got to go, ‘Is that a breakup offense? Or is it just that we need to spend a little time together and get some understanding about it?'”

The actor emphasized the importance of mutual acceptance, stating, “There are certain things that you learn to ignore about people – that she’s learned to ignore about me.” For example, LaTanya has come to accept Samuel’s relentless work ethic: “I’m going to go to work all the time until, you know, it’s time,” he explained.

Jackson and Richardson first met in college and have shared their lives together since tying the knot in April 1979. They have one daughter, Zoe, who is now 42 years old. In a previous interview with PEOPLE, LaTanya explained that the couple made a pact to remain together despite any challenges they might face. “In the beginning, we always said the most revolutionary thing that Black people could do was stay together,” she asserted, countering the common narrative about the dynamics of African American families.

Their journey hasn’t been without its trials. Early in their marriage, Samuel faced addiction issues. He recounted a pivotal moment when LaTanya and their daughter found him on the floor. With the help of a close friend who was a drug counselor, Samuel entered rehab the following day. “I didn’t go kicking and screaming because I was tired,” he reflected, acknowledging the support from LaTanya that helped him through that difficult period.

As he promotes the upcoming film adaptation of August Wilson’s play The Piano Lesson, which features a cast largely from the successful 2022 Broadway revival directed by LaTanya, Jackson continues to embody the resilience and commitment he preaches. The film, set in 1936, tells the story of the Charles family and a family heirloom, a piano that preserves their history through carvings made by their enslaved ancestor.

In an industry where relationships often crumble under pressure, Samuel L. Jackson and LaTanya Richardson serve as a testament to the power of love, patience, and understanding in sustaining a marriage.