Taraji P. Henson & Jeffrey Wright | Actors on Actors

In their Actors on Actors conversation Taraji P. Henson ('The Color Purple') and Jeffrey Wright ('American Fiction') bond over their common D.C. history as well as what it's like making films about the Black experience in America.
Variety Actors on Actors presented by American Fiction from Amazon Studios.
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[@legalese28]

Jeffrey is underrated. He’s been a star for YEARS!

[@amarbyrd2520]

I saw him on Broadway with Mos Def do Suzann Lori-Parks' "Top Dog Under Dog" -- I don't have words

[@gooffgoff89]

Without question. He’s a prolific actor, bare none. 👍🏽👌🏽

[@daddy9925]

He’s not underrated at all! The writing or roles may not be there to meet his talents, but make no mistake that everybody knows he’s “him”.

[@33kloss]

Absolutely

[@T_C242]

​@@daddy9925underrated isn't a diss. It's just meant to say he isn't given the credit he deserves. When people mention the best actors, he hardly ever comes up; but he deserves to

[@jayr3053]

Jeffrey is FINALLY getting recognition! He’s such a great actor. 🎉

[@trinjuwan4422]

Amazing❤

[@pointlessNYC]

@fabooshnessyou know how Hollywood tries to “phase out” black actors and even other highly talented minority actors 😠

[@pointlessNYC]

@fabooshness Never said that about Jeffrey specifically. Don’t look for an argument.

[@shtowns4821]

JW truly is a great actor. Every chance I get to see him in a role, I take it cause he is true to his craft.

[@davionelliot]

Taraji does not get enough credit for her performance in “Hidden Figures” absolutely her best performance of her career! Disappointed that the academy didn’t at least give her an Oscar nomination.

[@colstonlchinese]

Totally agree! That performance definitely should have been celebrated with an Academy Award.

[@amarbyrd2520]

I'm still disappointed about that

[@Natedawgg84]

Exactly!

[@cayennesimone7486]

I enjoyed hidden figures, but The movie I think she tore the screen up was Benjamin Buttons.... She played the hell outta that roll!!

[@gooffgoff89]

Completely agree.

[@OrionInSpace]

Jeffrey Wright just gives off pure "You are that guy pal" energy. What a legend!

[@alikasra415]

He likes being left alone!

[@OrionInSpace]

@@alikasra415 huh?

[@alikasra415]

@@OrionInSpace He likes his privacy in public.

[@OrionInSpace]

@@alikasra415 ok

[@orianna9]

Finally, an intelligent, down-to-earth discussion from 2 big Hollywood stars. Jeffrey Wright is a national treasure.

[@f.p.2784]

Jeffrey Wright is one of the most underrated actors of our time; one of my top 5 favorites. His range is out of this world. Flowers, flowers, and more flowers to him!!! 💐💐💐💐👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@s.b5605]

❤yes

[@GodsRemnant917]

Totally Agree! I watched everything he has done and by his name alone because he does not disappoint. Why it seems as though some actors are unsung when they are above great actors? Don Cheadle, Chiwetel Ejiofor, David Oyelowo, and Clifton Powell are among my favorite Black male actors who have not received their due either.

[@f.p.2784]

@GodsRemnant917 You are 100% right! All of the actors you named are solid, and I wouldn't hesitate to watch a movie just off their affiliation alone. Don't forget about Mahershala Ali. He's another one who deserves his flowers.

[@theunquietmindpodcast]

Did you see his movie with Bill Murray, Broken Flowers? It’s so good!!! I believe that’s the name of it. I totally agree with you. ❤

[@GodsRemnant917]

@@f.p.2784 Yes he does!

[@kennethchia4194]

"I suck at math." "You were great at math in the movie!" "Well you know, I'm a great actress."

[@heatheryi]

The range between these two! They both really could do any genre and crush it. Gotta give credit where it’s due, Taraji and Jeffrey are true artists. One of the greatest this generations seen

[@trinjuwan4422]

YES...I agree❤

[@MSG9876]

FACTS

[@ndo533]

I still haven't gotten over his performance in Shaft. Was my first time seeing him, and then to learn afterwards that he looked AND sounded absolutely NOTHING like the character he played still blows my mind 🤯

[@gooffgoff89]

They’re both uniquely, authentic souls: radiating authenticity. 🫶🏽

[@vjshoegal4027]

Two of the best artist in this generation...agreed. And, they've been circling each other's orbit for years.🙏🙏

[@AutumnIvy1995]

Jeffrey Wright deserves all the recognition! He should have multiple golden globes, Emmy’s, and Academy Awards by now!

[@jivonleejackson1673]

Hearing their D.C. talk & a mention of Prince George’s county warms my DMV & Howard soul. This was a heart warming interaction . “PRACTICE EVERY-DAY”. 😊😊😊

[@Kay-ql8zr]

When she said Oh You from the Eh-reeaah

[@katrinavenable6891]

Yaaas Bison. #youknow

[@Edit1handel]

@@Kay-ql8zr That part

[@Chuuzus]

it’s time Taraji wins her rightful Oscar! she has been giving us great performances for years now

[@siralphey234]

Exactly!!! The HIDDEN FIGURES snubs still stinks and baffle me. Hopefully she wins the Oscar for THE COLOR PURPLE next prayer, will be praying on that.🙏🏾

[@user8ene]

She is an amazing, amazing performer! I don't know of another actress that can do what she does.

[@johnwebb2442]

Most Definitely.

[@perryjones7771]

I’m scared for her Oscar chances. They completely shut her out of the golden globes and critics awards. Fingers crossed that she can pull a Regina King.

[@naleybaby]

@@perryjones7771 I love Taraji, but after The Color Purple promotional tour and the numbers at the box office, the studios are going to punish her.

[@15Candles]

Taraji's energy is amazing. She speaks like a regular comedian in telling stories that's interesting but in a humorous way when she speaks and she also played some great dramatic character which pushed her range in becoming an incredible actress. Hidden Figures is still my favourite from hers so far 🙌

[@aimeepaterson4423]

Taraji Was Incredible In Hidden Figures! She Was Truly Amazing!💗

[@DJ-ts5uv]

The “errrrria”. Love how Taraji hasn’t forgotten her DC roots. I didn’t know Jeffrey was from DC. He’s a great actor. ❤#DCrepresenting

[@meemeepalmer4144]

Jeffrey Wright killed it in Lackawanna Blues(one of my favorite movies!!!)

[@awalker8371]

Omg that is sooooooooooo good

[@pointlessNYC]

I love that movie!

[@candiyoung-gibson1076]

And that movie had family dynamics.

[@MaryKayPinkLady24]

YES!!! One of my favorite roles of his!

[@livlifnow]

I love that one too! Some of the lines in that film play in my mind to this day!

[@hangingwithgwammy6228]

To see Jeffrey Wright in a relaxed setting speaking about himself is quite captivating. And Taraji is always very enjoyable to hear ❤️

[@DaveJordanReports]

What a delightful segment between two artistic and underrated powerhouses. Taraji and Jeffrey don’t get enough credit for their sublime artistry. Thanks Variety.

[@dakotac180]

I love Taraji, she's amazing, never disappoints. Jeffery is an acting LEGEND!

[@bodaciousandunapologetic6209]

I too adore Mr. Wright and Mr. Cheadle and appreciate Taraji giving him his flowers 🌺.

[@Advent3546]

I know I'm in good hands when either of these two show up in a movie.

[@Jason-lw7tk]

Mr. Wright as Basquiat and Belize in Angels in America are two of my favorite performances ever. What a brilliant actor.

[@dlsmith300201]

Same!! I fell in love with him in both of those performances.

[@sunmist22]

And many more memorable characters has he played…

[@veredhasela]

Mine too. He is a genious.

[@Bootmahoy88]

Guys, guys, are you hearing what this discussion is about, or are you just ga-ga over two stars? Yeah, these are both terrific actors, but this meeting of two minds is presenting material about personal identity that extends beyond the individual into the dynamic of the collective. Are you hearing that??

[@15Candles]

I know by the fact that he won a Tony and an Emmy for his work in Tony Kushner's Angels In America both the theater play and the miniseries, but somehow i still find Jeffery Wright pretty underrated. I'm glad that he's getting his due after all these years of his incredible work especially playing Commissioner Gordon in The Batman

[@rebekahp4083]

He is incredibly underrated. I think he’s always so good and sets the standard so high that it’s hard to see truly how much mastery he has of the craft.

[@Natedawgg84]

Exactly, he disappears into all his roles. It's hard for me to get around the fact that this is the same guy who played the villian "Peoples" in the Shaft remake movie from 2000 with Samuel L Jackson. 😅

[@rebekahp4083]

@@Natedawgg84 right?!? Like what a Chameleon 😂

[@Bootmahoy88]

Guys, guys, are you hearing what this discussion is about, or are you just ga-ga over two stars? Yeah, these are both terrific actors, but this meeting of two minds is presenting material about personal identity that extends beyond the individual into the dynamic of the collective. Are you hearing that??

[@Jeannine_9]

DC representing in this interview, two of my favs, glad that Jeff can finally get his flowers, such an incredible actor with range. Henson has had both memorable roles on the big screen and on TV, her Cookie on Empire is one of the best characters ever. 😘

[@stephsteph1338]

DC in the house! Yes! 😊♥️

[@franfabian-moore5183]

Love how he booked a date with TPH right at the end so smooth!😂❤ love them. Angels in America was my introduction to Jefferey Wright and he was incredible

[@karenturner8436]

I loved the back and forth betw them. And you’re right J.W. seamlessly shot his shot. No wonder, TPH’s energy is contagious.

[@ddacoe0]

All I could think while I watched this was how CUTE THEY'D BE TOGETHER!!!!! 😍

[@Fluuuv]

​@@ddacoe0yep they'd be a cute couple for sure.

[@MichelleG333]

Right! I hope they made it happen 😊

[@marclynch8059]

Jeffrey is a wickedly “sick” great theatrical performer. And when Sidney Poitier, Al Pacino, Denzel Washington, and Anthony Hopkins, sign off on you to be their scene partner, that speaks to the level of his genius.

[@mikekillagreen9432]

And Samuel L. Jackson!

[@Bootmahoy88]

Guys, guys, are you hearing what this discussion is about, or are you just ga-ga over two stars? Yeah, these are both terrific actors, but this meeting of two minds is presenting material about personal identity that extends beyond the individual into the dynamic of the collective. Are you hearing that??

[@DrVenture45]

Taraji and Jeffrey have incredible range. Jeffrey's stands out even if he whispers his lines. He's brilliant. Taraji's performance in Hidden Figures was impressionable. She should be given more chances to shine.

[@DlightfulSoul]

Watching Taraji go between fan girl and student of the arts and Jeffrey go from serious thespian to Southeast was such a joy. This conversation was delightful in so many ways. These are two of my top 5 favorite actors, I hope we get to see them collaborate on a project in the future for sure!!!

[@Bootmahoy88]

Guys, guys, are you hearing what this discussion is about, or are you just ga-ga over two stars? Yeah, these are both terrific actors, but this meeting of two minds is presenting material about personal identity that extends beyond the individual into the dynamic of the collective. Are you hearing that??

[@rmcmariusable]

Two powerhouses. I wou!d run, not walk, to see them in a Broadway play. Glad they are finally getting their much deserved and overdue recognition. What a beautiful conversation.

[@raekwonsmith965]

Hearing them name drop streets and places from DC warms my heart! -A fellow Washingtonian

[@tonitobi2569]

I could watch 10 hours of this . Such a beautiful honest conversation from both sides

[@kellywilliams7318]

Jeffrey Wright in Boardwalk Empire.... he was intense and scary. He is an impeccable actor.

[@terashaking4119]

Taraji is brilliant! I appreciate her wisdom, intellect, and passion. In this interview, she comes across as an "old soul" (which is a compliment in our culture). She is a great listener, thoughtful, and appears to have a huge heart. Her future is bright with or without Hollywood! Taraji, thanks for honoring us with your gifts.

[@christianharbin7979]

For goodness sake, somebody PLEASE put them together in a movie! Issa? Ava? Lena? Regina? Melina? Oprah? (anyone else whose name ends in an “uh,” sound)

[@SoniaRossIntuitiveMessenger]

I agree. 😂😂😂😂

[@obedirect5491]

😂😂

[@QueenNaestar]

Too funny. They would have great chemistry on screen. 😅

[@shwesharan]

Watched this from start to finish without moving an inch. It's incredible to listen to them talk about their childhood and journeys. Really cool to hear about Taraji's work and many accomplishments.

[@andydv27]

I've always loved Taraji's energy! She's always been one of my favorite actresses!! Jeffrey Wright was just fantastic in The Batman!! So happy to see them paired up for this!!

[@colstonlchinese]

Jeffrey Wright is an acting master. Taraji P. Henson is a great actress always giving over to true vulnerability. Moreover, I truly enjoyed her interpretation of Shug Avery in the musical film. Thanks for sharing their interview.

[@bonnietaylor7303]

My complaint? It wasn't long enough! I LOVED this!! Jeffrey Wright is amazing and Taraji will forever be a favorite of mine.

[@JML1974]

I clicked on this so fast when I saw this on my recommendations. Love this DC/DMV camaraderie too. Jeffrey trying to make a family connection as well. Love this banter and conversation. More of this!❤❤❤

[@jamescolgan6093]

I worked as an extra on 'Basquiat', it was one of the openings of his art exhibit's! I was thrilled because David Bowie was playing Andy Warhol, I was a huge fan! We shot at a gallery in SoHo!

[@pointlessNYC]

That’s so cool 😊

[@francinegant1775]

Jeffrey Wright is such a real gentlemen & an excellent male actor. I have enjoyed his films on the big screen. Thanks for being there for Taraji. She deserves her fair share and nothing less.❤

[@KCNwokoye]

Stunning Taraji!

[@tangelomax]

This was so cute Jeffery smooth as butter 💜

[@Bootmahoy88]

Guys, guys, are you hearing what this discussion is about, or are you just ga-ga over two stars? Yeah, these are both terrific actors, but this meeting of two minds is presenting material about personal identity that extends beyond the individual into the dynamic of the collective. Are you hearing that??

[@rachelmoraa5403]

The conversation we never knew we needed. Enjoyed this so much

[@jasonharris2525]

Taraji is a class act I love her so much 🖤

[@aimeepaterson4423]

ME TOO!!!

[@lamaradrian1]

Taraji said the best thing that i have been saying for years!!! That comedians make the best dramatic actors!!! I agree!!!

[@CharlesMcKinneyIV]

And vice versa

[@rudy679]

I fell in love with Jeffrey Wright whilst watching Angels In America. Been loving him since.

[@COLE_PRODUCTIONS]

I saw both American Fiction and The Color Purple and WOW. Both movies were just shook me, emotionally in different ways. I love it and I love that it was done some incredible black actors and actresses. Not to mention underrated actors/actresses getting major screentime: Louis Gosset Jr. David Alan Grier Erika Alexander Keith David. Wow and the directors of both. Kudos. I can't wait to see the future of black cinema.

[@Tojoj22]

Taraji your hair gurl is amazing 😍

[@Ismail-cf6xu]

Jeffrey Wright is natural treasure. Taraji, beautiful, familiar, passionate. I hope that their latest performances really project them into the next stage in their careers. They are deserving of more recognition for their range and skill IMO.

[@purejoy1985]

Love TPH!! She seems so down to earth as a person and celeb. Love her movies and happy the industry has not tried to offer her roles to alter how we feel about her. She picks the right ones that tell a story without putting her in a bad light. Respect that about her.

[@srhoward73]

I'm so happy I truly love Jeffrey Wright. He is a awesome actor. His acting makes you believe he is the character in the movie

[@Afrocentricpoet]

Mr .Wright is the truth. From day one. He can take a small role an make it bigger. He is underrated.

[@knl5330]

LOVE Jeffrey Wright! He is an AMAZING actor!!! 👏🏾 👏🏾👏🏾

[@jennys.2440]

True legendary actors!!

[@auntvesuvi3872]

Many thanks to Taraji, Jeffrey and everyone at Variety! 🌟

[@TG-hf1gx]

I knew it! Taraji got some TarHeel Carolina in her!👣 I'm from Wayne County and I would love it when my cousins would come from NJ, NY, DC, Baltimore, Oxon Hill, Fort Washington for the summer. I'd cry when they left to go back for school. This exchange every year of city life vs country life helped shape my view of the world. I believe all kids need to experience a different part of the country at least once a year. We're all different and all the same.🤗 Been in love with Jeffrey since Angels in America!🎭 NC produces brilliance! Aggie Pride!💙💛💙💛 Much love from SF, CA🙋🏾🌉

[@gutterbaby8382]

Love these two. Both legends of stage and screen who deserve more love from the industry.

[@jbb8090]

2 legends occupying a space at the same time... It gets no better than that! "Where there are 2." 👏🏾 ❤

[@mandalollar9062]

I loved the DC convo. Makes me feel like I know y'all! I ran into Jeffrey Wright at a Nats game years ago and he was super friendly in calling me out as I was trying to take a pic from a distance,lol. I felt bad bc he was with his son and I didn't want to interrupt his private/family time. He said something like, "you wanna take a picture with me? Come on, it's okay. " #fail

[@Beautifullyaberrant]

I’m so ready to hear more of Taraji’s singing voice

[@3864267]

It’s Surprisingly good

[@ladennayoung2939]

​@@3864267 She has sung in a movie before.

[@V_4_Versace]

I love hearing two Black folks chat about their life, successes, politics, all that! And I adore that they are starring in movies that center and uplift Black people 🤎

[@KAW1239]

Jefferey Wright is your favorite actor's, favorite actor. His talent is immense. It's about time he is getting his flowers. Also, Taraji deserves more recognition. She has incredible range. Cannot wait to see both of their films this holiday season!

[@sandrahardison4918]

Thank you for highlighting two excellent actors. Jeffrey can portray any character he’s assigned so fully that you swear it’s his real personality. Taraji is larger than life on the screen. I never want her interviews to end.

[@dharmawilson-grapevinenewz]

Another good pairing Variety they seem like Cousins...I still remember Mr. Wright's acceptance speech for his Tony Award...keep bringing joy🎉🎉🎉

[@1019Freedom]

This is great, I feel like I’m sitting w my Aunt and Uncle having a conversation. I mean real auntie actually looks like her. I want more people to hear and see this type of stuff. Something so wholesome abt it 🤙🏾

[@forthepeople1664]

One of the best actors in the industry. We need to all grow bigger hearts with more empathy. That's one thing lacking in society, not enough darn empathy and social intelligence.

[@filipsolis5253]

Both American Fiction and Jeffrey Wright are amazing!

[@CrownedxKay]

Two (2) of the greatest Thespians with even greater trajectories between them. They have so many parallels and amazing chemistry, I hope you all at least kept your word on that Crab Date! 😘

[@tumrani]

Happy to hear my fellow Washingtonians talk about how this unique city shaped their careers.

[@emorylamar]

Anything Taraji is in and done u will always SUPPORT love that lady deep she’s so relatable

[@vgreen1106]

When you look up the word Underrated, a picture of these two should be right there in the dictionary. I love how these two carry themselves both personally and professionally. Continue to Inspire us! We Thank You!

[@lavedadavis818]

Both phenomenal! The duo we never knew we needed. More of this PLEASE!! Carry on, Variety!!

[@Patternsby.Dee.]

I love my home town ppl. I’m a PGC native and went to Oxon Hill High. Now I live in Northeast DC. It’s beautiful knowing that beautiful ppl like Taraji and Jeffrey are from my eara..😂of Maryland and Washington DC. I give you both flowers 💐 to both that are well and deserved.

[@thesmileyeffect]

What an excellent conversation. Another great pairing!

[@Kali4Action]

ya know how certain actors/actresses, when you see they're in the cast, you know it's going to be quality film or performance, these two are in that category, both are extraordinarily talented Taraji P. Henson & Jeffrey Wright

[@reedykat30]

I really love Jeffrey Wright’s work. He is versatile and exceptionally talented. Taraji is also a gift to acting.

[@folarinosibodu]

0:37 Best opening joke of all time. Jeffery is just to low-key and subtle with his acting and comedy. This is why he doesn't win awards so much but he is just as wonderful as the rest. This low key joke is just so quick and hilarious.

[@derrionbrown3923]

They need to work together. Somebody green light a film for them ❤❤❤❤

[@Bikki-oz3en]

Mr. Wright and Ms. Henson are consummate crafts[persons]! I love love love you both. I too hail from The DMV and watching this segment I recognize something fundamentally familiar. Thank you both for your indelible bodies of work. Thank you, and Variety...for one of the best 41 minutes and 43 seconds of time ever spent! Wishing you continued success!!! #tarajiphenson #jeffreywright #variety #actorsonactors

[@myajt]

I’m from the DMV so I’m supporting anything Taraji in.

[@allmynz02]

They have so much in common!!

[@LuvMwai]

i love taraji so much. a black iconic woman

[@MSG9876]

Mr. Wright is the absolute truth in his profession...I have great respect for his work. Bravo Bravo Bravo ⚘️💝❣️

[@DansChan995]

It's interesting to hear them talk about DC. One of the reasons I left the town was because so many told me that aspiring artists didn't belong in DC, that it was a one-horse town for political jobs. I wonder how much that has affected artists leaving the city scene.

[@tymbreturner501]

Many of the great Actors & Musicians were born and raised in DC, Duke Ellington School of the Arts, Eastern High School and Howard Univ had produced many greats!!! A powerful city in a southern town. The DMV🥰🥰🥰

[@jlkitz1775]

Mr. Wright!!!! I have been a fan for YEARS, what an amazing body of work 👏🏾❤️🥂

[@taunyaquick9320]

Hello, what an amazing interview with two of my favorite talents. When I saw the picture of you two I thought Jeffrey was in the movie also. But so happy to hear about his new projects too which I will be watching. Beautiful Foundational Black Americans.

[@Splurge24]

Jeffrey Wright is an under appreciated GOAT.

[@ioanaalina5583]

What a delightful and mentally nourishing interaction! Excellent artists! ❤

[@kath1626]

Taraji is a treasure. ❤

[@ParaPeachez]

Mr. Wright😍😍 Love Taraji!

[@FitnessFocusedSistah]

Loved this conversation & I would LOVE to see DC's Finest Taraji & Jeffrey in a major project together! 💜😍💜

[@TheButlerdiditpro]

The DC convo just warmed my heart!

[@deidraflores6561]

Jeffrey Wright is a very outstanding actor. He makes me want to see any movie he’s in. He’s just amazing.

[@tinadaron1509]

Great episode!! I loved Baby Boy! You couldn't have told me that Taraji was not from Los Angeles she did an excellent job with that character. That's when I became a fan of her. Jeffrey Wright is amazing in everything he does. If he is doing something, I want to see it. He is so great at transforming himself in every character. Hope to see them together in something soon! 💜

[@dforte6195]

Agreed. I thought she was from LA too. I lived there and she nailed it.

[@hotendsexy]

Jeffrey is so underrated! What a great actor. I remember seeing him walking around Brooklyn & one evening he walked into Brooklyn Moon Cafe. So down to earth.

[@actorselftaping6484]

He lives in Brooklyn heights . He is through and through a NY actor !

[@TorskiDobsonArnold]

I've absolutely enjoyed the careers of both of these actors. Jeffrey Wright KILT IT in Cadillac Records. I watch that movie everytime it comes on. I'm also very much looking forward to Taraji in The Color Purple

[@juan-josegarza7039]

That DC convo made me smile!!!!!!

[@dmiles8406]

Two of my favorite 🤩 people…talented beyond words but also appear to be good people. I’ve seen quite a few of their interviews and almost all of their work. I was stationed at the Pentagon while in the Marine Corps…I love the D.C. area. Great hearing they’re both from there!

[@lemuelmalik8347]

Wow he's done 53 movies I'm going to be doing a lot of watching because he is a brilliant in thought-provoking actor. A lot of movie watching my goodness

[@albertwhite6048]

Great interview

[@wonder7705]

Love this conversation between these two!