Samuel L. Jackson & Viola Davis | Actors on Actors - Full Conversation

In their Actors on Actors conversation Viola Davis ('The First Lady') and Samuel L. Jackson ('The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey') recount their experiences coming up in the New York acting world as well as advice for actors on their first projects, and of course what it was like to play Michelle Obama.
Variety Actors on Actors presented by AppleTV+.
bit.ly/VarietySubscribe
/ variety
/ variety
/ variety

[@Chuuzus]

I CLICKED ON THIS SO FAST! viola davis and samuel l jackson are some of the greatest actors of all time

[@chasehedges6775]

Same💯💯💯👍👍👍

[@davidcooper9955]

Hayyyy love your channel

[@hattiesallie2622]

Me too!!!!!

[@icanrelate]

Same!

[@chisomagbara6780]

BIG FACTS💯💯

[@xamalion7334]

Viola is so right: you never really know anyone. You only know what they want you to know. Every person is a whole universe. So even trying to know one person is actually impossible.

[@shadyladyrox]

That realization is what makes the greats great.

[@jennyontheblock_19]

Time Stamp please?

[@NataliaAnnette]

@@jennyontheblock_19 11:23!

[@jennyontheblock_19]

@@NataliaAnnette Thanks :)

[@DarkAngel-cj6sx]

So profound

[@queenb2450]

NO WAY! This duo is beyond what I imagined. Seriously whoever is pairing these actors needs a raise!

[@tob4b1]

YASSSS! Second this!!!!!

[@LanhNguyenFilms]

Yes just keep copy pasting this every video.

[@queenb2450]

@@LanhNguyenFilms and? I think it’s true and hope someone sees it …hater

[@trayshana]

AGREE 💯

[@abdirisakawes6544]

Absolutely

[@rajabcroswell9020]

This pairing was excellent. They just seem like old friends having a conversation.

[@Fireinherveinzz]

Yesss

[@ErikaMcQueen89]

🔥

[@boogsybrooks]

Is it just me or do they appear to be conversing in code at times?

[@devn-andre369]

💪🏽✌🏽🙏🏽🤲🏽❤️... Humbleness ov thee spirit always makes friends ento family..

[@enriquedomingo4634]

Here we see the woman who formed the Suicide Squad and the man who assembled the Avengers.

[@aieshagreenlee947]

Lol my internal scream was so loud when I read this comment! Thank you for this little joy

[@MsDee086TV]

BRAVO!!!!!!

[@DinoRubble]

Not that I ever want to see Ms. Davis stop acting, but can you imagine this woman being your acting teacher? The passion and intelligence and the joy she has in just speaking about her craft is infectious.

[@NorthPhilly-zr7xc]

I'm surprised Sam doesn't remember her from out of sight she had a small role in that movie and he did too

[@originalellebak]

I just posted this on my FB she's so raw, authentic and easy to comprehend unlike a lot of acting teachers

[@jendayiKa]

Wow that will be amazing!!!!

[@klynnthomp]

Yes, she is a teacher! I'm not an actress but I'm learning details for life!!!

[@colstonlchinese]

Exactly

[@mariah2161]

viola davis has this indescribable energy about her. she just makes you want to listen to her talk about anything. hands down one of the best actresses that have ever lived

[@traceythompson1092]

Exactly! My first encounter with Diva Davis was watching her go up against another one of my favz, Vincent D'Onfrio on Law &Order:Criminal Intent.....She killed, and me as a darker skinned West- Indian American, was blown away. Needless to say she got on my radar because I am huge VD fan back to "Full Metal Jacket" and his turn as a train stop on the TV show "Homicide". Thems were the dayz.

[@colstonlchinese]

Exactly

[@michaelcruz8312]

I believe it’s all in her hands. That’s the hook to compelling you the viewer to listen deeply to Ms. Viola D’s wisdom.

[@gracegreen1859]

Can we please get Angela and Denzel. I would pay to see them both talk to each other. I love them together my top two actors of all time. And I know they are still friends so it would be an organic conversation.

[@hotmixxable]

Woooooooooooooo Epic

[@nakitapalmer656]

IKTR!!!!!!👏👏👏

[@americanbeauty171]

Great combination!!

[@colstonlchinese]

That would be 🔥

[@RoguePanda93]

I could’ve literally gone another full hour listening to their conversation! They were not planning on stopping any time soon either. Variety can we get a part 2? Pleaseee!

[@Fireinherveinzz]

Sameee

[@kj7682]

Pretty please

[@NAubergineH]

Yes!!

[@TrulyMademoizelle]

It's probably online

[@jwanie366]

Whoever is deciding the Actors on Actors pairings definitely needs a raise lol

[@JohnDoe-tm9wz]

He or she is probably overpaid, so...no.

[@vedanthmisri9956]

Why is the engagement on this video so low? Anyways both of these actors are such legends.

[@jordy407]

Cause they posted it yesterday and deleted it!! And I’m not sure why. It was plenty of engagement the first time. Did anybody else see that?😩

[@briannamaaarie]

@@jordy407 i was one of the ones who was able to watch yesterday! i believe they posted it by accident and deleted when they realized it - the twitter account never even posted about it. i think they were releasing one 'actors on actors' a day and they uploaded the tom hiddleston/lily james one yesterday.

[@couldbahappychic1217]

Facts

[@nancyshe9796]

@@briannamaaarie yeah, I think the same. It's better if they delete and upload it again, otherwise this video won't be seen so well, like others.

[@vehzee]

like how is a video with Lily James and Loki have more views than these legendary vets!?!

[@nicolesantiago6334]

Viola is such a gem. My god, what a woman.

[@dynastyb.]

Two Black Living Legends. I'm glad to be alive to see and hear this conversation.

[@kyrucker]

Now this is what you call not only iconic but black excellence.

[@senseibullish1803]

When you watch Viola Davis and Samuel Jackson speak about the work they do, you can tell they love it. This isn’t just about promoting the project they’re on. This is moment into how deeply they care about the craft and the characters they create. Amazing to see actors like this.

[@kamariatoure42]

They have awoken my dream of being an actor at 33..it's discouraging, but I am ready now. Thanks for the inspiration

[@TheQMW13]

You can do it!!!

[@klynnthomp]

Gurl... I'm 40 and the way it provoke my soul is nerve wrecking in a good way!

[@hotmixxable]

Noone ever starts at the top!!!Do it for you! Every little role adds up. Just keep your standards and self respect!

[@toons8744]

Sam was 40 when got his big break. Never too late

[@sweetbabygirl13]

Same!

[@hussanmalik5964]

Nick fury and Amanda whaler having a conversation is amazing

[@cocovann1882]

If you haven’t read her book “Finding Me,” don’t walk, RUN and get it. It is AMAZING. I read it twice (so far). The way this woman has pulled herself up is nothing short of miraculous. I thought I liked her before. I LOVE HER now. If you haven’t seen “The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey,” again, RUN (don’t walk!) and watch that masterpiece. This video is what true EXCELLENCE looks like. Thank me later.

[@Amda4436]

Reading it now...I love it so far!!

[@aalyciasgold]

aunt and uncle discussing their life at the barbecue

[@chasehedges6775]

💯😂

[@loripaige887]

Their segment should’ve been longer. This was so comfortable and insightful to watch

[@rajabcroswell9020]

I met Viola working on How To Get Away With Murder. I was in a scene with her. She was cool and laid back.

[@sydn3ymurray]

Wow that must've been a cool experience!

[@rajabcroswell9020]

@@sydn3ymurray It was.

[@djchambliss6561]

I would had froze but you get to treasure and cherish that moment for eternity

[@Joe161964]

Maan.... you're a blessed dude!! I'm an actor here in LA and I wish I could be you right now!

[@julia-eu8xo]

Currently rewatching the show right now! That's so amazing.

[@ayoayo7730]

I love the ways Viola chooses her words, her lexicon. 🔥

[@johntirado-glover3574]

Icons & Legends. Samuel does not age,ever. Viola is everything. I can hear her talk all day. I would love to see them pair together and do a Master Class That would be 🔥!!!

[@terrancewilliams8870]

This is amazing. I feel as though Samuel never gets to talk about his acting experience and his methods so it was so beautiful to hear him explain how he does things and thinks about things!

[@DesiderataVio]

He's truly amazing! Samuel Jackson and Walter Mosley = the Last Days of Ptolemy Grey... 🙏🏾

[@OjukwuIsaac]

He actually teaches a Masterclass. kzbin.info/www/bejne/kIDGi2CXiZVqedk

[@skylerb97]

Yeah I've rarely heard him discuss the actual craft or his process

[@sanddollar4915]

We need a part 2. That was NOT long enough.

[@andreawashington4256]

I was thinking the same thing. Could have listened to these two for hours.

[@JustinBenn]

I didn't want this conversation to end. Most enjoyable. Thanks for letting me lean in.

[@aishanibhattacharya391]

Powerhouses in acting!!! They represent Hollywood.

[@chasehedges6775]

Indeed

[@aobxo]

I can listen to Viola Davis talk all day, there is something so powerful about her so unexplainable

[@kayleerebekah4884]

God, I love Viola Davis. I could sit and listen to this women speak about her life experiences and career for hours. I adore Samuel L. Jackson too, of course. But Viola has so much wisdom that I just want to observe and soak in, even if it is just the smallest amount. LOVE this pairing, whoever has been arranging these past few “actor on actor” interviews needs a raise

[@andreawashington4256]

You have to see her interview with Oprah then. Great, great interview. You'll learn so much. I was brought to 😢

[@zacharyzapata8559]

What "wisdom"?

[@michelleshava1477]

I met Samuel once in London and he is exactly the same in person. I would say slightly more intimidating. What a FANTASTIC segment. I wish they had both dropped the skincare routine because they look so good. 💖

[@pitpride1220]

This is an actor's MASTERCLASS! I'm watching this twice.

[@leilaikusura4904]

The admiration, respect and love they have for one another and knowing they are two different generations yet they share so much in common. They are both masters of their craft. Such a joy to watch and learn from both of them. ❤️💜❤️❤️💜💜❤️

[@tenorfab]

This could’ve gone on for hours. I would’ve hung on every lesson. Kudos to this pairing!

[@GEMINICHAI]

Viola Davis is such a treasure! Her smile really just lights up the entire room ✨

[@Ernie1978]

Viola is a living legend! It seems so mindblowing that she's had or has issues with self acceptance. I admire her so much for who she is and what she means to the world.

[@jermainebrown8251]

I saw an interview she did recently and it became more clear why she has/had such issues with self-acceptance. She had a really, really bad and violent childhood. I mean, all of the things we'd imagine a child might need to grow into a stable, productive, healthy adult were virtually absent in her formative years, save for the sporadic intervention of a lone gaurdian angel in the form of a teacher, and acting. That she came out as well as she did is somewhat a miracle.

[@kj7682]

@@jermainebrown8251 I saw the Oprah interview for her book. She said acting was a positive way get her emotions about her childhood out, without people feeling like she’s complaining. God definitely prepared to play the tough roles. And I agree, definitely a small miracle.

[@NoraKong]

Omg so many gems and it's only 8 mins in. "You're in the right place, it's just not your turn yet" God that's a word!!!! And when she said majority of who she is lays in her mind.... I felt that deep in my shanana.

[@dougwoolery9721]

my only disappointment is that the video is so short. two incredible actors, amazing individuals

[@Fireinherveinzz]

This interview feels so natural and like a conversation not scripted at all I love it .

[@Marilynschannel]

My girlfriend went to school with Viola in central falls , RI . My friend still talks to her mom . She told me how Viola was always very focused on what she wanted to do .

[@sufferguy6715]

Two legends in one room. Speechless.

[@suavegtv]

Viola is so smart i could listen to her speak all day

[@moreilly9836]

Sam Jackson has had such an illustrious career you can tell he's genuine, and took that quote to heart

[@TheHeartsandcake90]

"I'm in the right place, it's just not my turn" whew!

[@klynnthomp]

THAT PART!!!!

[@completely_me75]

That one got me too. Definitely keeping that close to my heart.

[@georgettecox1288]

I'm definitely here for this! Viola and Sam are two of the most prolific, talented actors of this generation. Glad to see them chat and hope they will collaborate on future projects soon 😀.

[@jordy407]

THIS!!!! THIS is what the people NEED and want!!!!!

[@IdLikeToGoThere]

So many GEMS!! Sam aint lying I dealt with my dad having dementia and he got the disease right! It was so hard to watch but I finished the 6 part series on Apple TV. I loved ALL OF It!

[@billyalarie929]

This is an absolutely incredible pairing.

[@amandab745]

This was the best actors on actors conversation out of ALL of them. This is such a robust conversation from two masters of their craft. Beautiful, insightful and multi-dimensional.

[@arunpk-user]

Love Viola. she reminds me of my grand mother in her prime. the bond is immaculate. bucket list is to meet Viola one day somehow and just talk with her atleast for few seconds

[@lwazihlophe8955]

A masterclass delivered in 24:46 minutes.Mind blowing.

[@karabokhanyile]

Watching The last days of Ptolemy Grey and enjoying the duo that was Samuel L. Jackson and Dominique Fishback made me realize how much I love platonic pairings between a young person and an older person played by great actors who have great chemistry. Another example of that is Ali and Rue in Euphoria played by Colman Domingo and Zendaya,I could watch them all day❤

[@qytj1182]

Samuel L Jackson is just fantastic

[@Mvivaldi1]

I’ve watched a lot of actors on actors and this one is by far the best! They truly tell you what it took to be where they are today!!

[@nomondea1988]

Gosh I wish this were longer 😣 great conversation. Why it has so little views is beyond me

[@carleysoul]

Beyond me! Its so good

[@vehzee]

society undervalueing black talent

[@bwalyamulungachanda1467]

The first upload had a lot of views but got deleted then re-uploaded 🤷🏾‍♀️

[@naomiononuga961]

Whoever organised the pairing this time…thank you and thank you again.

[@jendayiKa]

Two of the greatest thespian ever!!! Love them! Viola's speaking voice is gorgeous and so is she!😍💚

[@asahk7419]

TOO MUCH LEGEND energy and CHARISMA and I am LIVING FOR THIS

[@clancy9438]

I really love this format. The people interviewing each other know the nuances and behind the scenes intricacies of what goes into the work they do. These interviews seem more candid.

[@swinelips]

Jackson is 100% correct on actors doing full run Plays to develop themselves, not just scenes. In my days at the Meisner Center once an actor had two full run plays (6 weeks of rehearsal + a 6 week run, minimum) under their belt, they took giant steps and were pretty much ready to roll with anything.

[@seeia1673]

This deserves way more viewership!!! This was so good to watch. Two most iconic actors of our time

[@luthom6064]

TWO GOATS. INCREDIBLE CONVERSATION. TWO GENERATIONS. TWO LEGENDS. ❤❤👏🏾👏🏾🐐🐐💐💐✨✨

[@NurVesXIX]

this is crazy how does this not have more views these legit are some of my favorite actors of all time

[@theblackcatwoman]

This is probably the best thing I've ever seen I was smiling the whole time love them both ❤❤😭

[@CherishedSoul]

Great Exchange…between two of the Greatest thespians in the game. I run to the box office whenever their names are attached to a project. Bravo

[@kevseb66]

I'm absolutely loving this. Love hearing their stories of what made them who they are. Two amazing black actors interviewing each other.

[@JVO343]

The best interview doesn't exi--- 🤩🔥

[@gigimagys2567]

“Beware the toes you step on today for they might be connected to the ass you have to kiss tomorrow” that’s a whole word right there… Thanks SJ

[@AnaisKarim]

Right. He kept it cute, but that was real talk for that misstep portrayal. She burned a bridge with that.

[@gregarnold1696]

I'm so proud of these people they have talent and they use it responsibility!!!

[@cybersylv]

God!! This woman speaks and it's a Master Class on acting!! What a beautiful, passionate, dynamic force of nature Viola is!! 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻❤️❤️❤️

[@Dyferent]

I need more of this. Representation matters 😊

[@talisha5863]

This was amazing👏🏽👍🏽I didn’t want their conversation to end! Love the honesty and humility from both Viola and Samuel😘They need to do another talk for at least an hour…..PLEASE🙏🏾

[@geedawg1946]

It's like a couple of old friends getting together to talk shop. They are so interesting and intelligent it makes you want to listen closely. PS Viola is breathtakingly beautiful.

[@leenaamwaalwa3567]

To know that Samuel L. Jackson is in his 70s yet he look this good, dude, black really don't crack. 🔥✊🏿

[@preezo007]

I love to laugh and watching Samuel bring the best of it😂😂😂. Still LAUGHING♥️

[@klynnthomp]

This has been one of the most self assuring and motivating episodes for me to consume! I get so giddy seeing people delve so deep into their craft. The process to get there took a million small steps. Inspired by them both!!!

[@carleysoul]

"I'm in the right place, it's just not my turn" 😌

[@margarettodd1600]

Absolutely brilliant having 2 Actors of their caliber discussing and reflecting on their journey.....🤲🏽🤲🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽👊🏽

[@chelseacanales8763]

Two amazing legendary actors

[@Between2_worlds]

Viola Davis is truly a storyteller. She embodies becoming a character. I hope I get to see more of her brilliance!

[@jbrown1031]

I love these two so much!!

[@divineexcellenceuk]

Inspiring, it’s beautiful to see two well established actors give one another their flowers and have open loving conversation

[@cj10109]

Two phenomenal actors having a conversation! I love it 🥰

[@DRAMATICLEGS]

This is one of the best match ups!!!!!

[@WonderfullyMade_Lex]

2 of my absolute favs !!! I'm gonna perform w/her one day. #GOALS 🙏🏾

[@barbarajerry]

They are the 2 most talented actors in the world! They are my absolute favorites!

[@vanna410]

TWO OF MY FAVORITE PEOPLE SAM AND VIOLA💕💕💕!!!

[@Music-xb2lx]

I swear variety is really feeding us the best of the best pairings these last few days! Whoever’s coming up with them needs a raise!!!

[@debanjali]

Y’all gotta hype this up like others, namely Andrew and Zendaya. These two are pioneers of their field and their community. Clearly don’t deserve such treatment.

[@karabokhanyile]

Well I did hype it just as much but my comments were deleted and the video was on private for a day so it definitely hurt the engagement Edit: The comments are back for some reason but they were missing yesterday

[@markjlabella8869]

These two are real life superheroes. ❤️❤️❤️

[@saraoj4228]

I absolutely adore this woman. What a legend

[@lacecocoa6272]

Samuel Jackson has never made a wrong foot when it came to acting like he's legendary. You always be my favorite favorite forever

[@josephadiaz8343]

Wow two great actors spilling who they really are to the world 😊. It's awesome learning more and more about how they think, and how they get into character. He's so cool she's so beautiful 😊❤️🙏✌️😎

[@ObiesieMaduegbuna]

I love these two together. So many gems

[@santiagogarces399]

We need a part two, this masters class was just not enough

[@milennafariasbarbosa5110]

My God, what a woman. Viola is such an inspiration ♥️

[@iiamkee21]

I’m living two legends!!!!! I love them both!

[@LaMarco0]

Two icons discussing their craft. Love it.

[@chasehedges6775]

Two Amazing legends. 💯💯💯💯✅✅✅

[@Raheelwahl]

Legends!!! Viola has my whole heart 💜

[@KatieT3282]

Such a beautiful conversation between two beautiful living legends! Truly enjoyed watching amd listening to this conversation.