Samuel L. Jackson holds his wife in high esteem, crediting her with the success of their sustainable marriage, and so much more.
In March 2022 “Captain Marvel” star Samuel L Jackson recounted how his wife, LaTanya Richardson, saved his life several years back while opening up about their lasting union.
He also disclosed details about their near fallout during his battle with drug addiction, which threatened their family union.
Even after hitting rock bottom, LaTanya stood by her husband, holding on to their promise of “forever.” His wife’s faith in him drove the star to enroll in rehab to beat his addiction, eventually getting clean.
Today, the duo are 41 years strong, and remain powerful figures in Hollywood, never once compromising their love by falling prey to scandals. Who is this spectacular woman who imposed such change on Samuel Jackson?
Who Is The Wife Of Samuel L Jackson?
LaTanya Richardson is the wife of Samuel L Jackson, a seasoned Hollywood actor. Like her husband, she is an actress, and has a handful of behind-the-scenes credits as a producer.
She is best known for her role in the film, “The Fighting Temptations,’ where she played Paulina Pritchett. Her other works include “Rebel,” “Luke Cage,” and “Lone Star,” as well as appearances in many television shows.
Outside her career, LaTanya Richardson Jackson is a mom, having welcomed one child Zoe Jackson with her husband. Their child, now 40, grew up following in her footsteps, becoming a producer and director with at least one acting credit.
LaTanya Richardson’s Biography
While famously known as the wife of renowned actor Samuel L Jackson, LaTanya led a remarkably normal life in her early years. She came into the world on October 21, 1949, in Atlanta, Georgia.
After completing high school, the actress proceeded to attend Spelman College in Atlanta. She graduated from the all-female liberal arts institution in 1971, fully equipped to take on the world of arts.
LaTanya Richardson’s Career
Samuel Jackson’s wife is a Hollywood actress and producer who broke into the industry in the late seventies. Since her acting debut, the star has appeared in some notable films, leaving a lasting imprint throughout the nineties.
Some of her top films include “When A Man Loves A Woman,” where she played Dr Gina Mendez and 1992’s “Juice.”
Additionally, the 72-year-old appeared in “Malcolm X,” “U.S. Marshals,” “Fried Green Tomatoes,” “Secrets,” “Blackout,” “Juanita,” “Mother and Child,” “Freedomland,” and “Loved.”
LaTanya has also made a name for herself on television, making guest appearances in episodes of top series. Her works on TV include “Grey’s Anatomy,” as Diane Pierce, “Blue Bloods” as Lt. Carver, “Damages” as Judge Ellis, “Judging Amy” as Lena and “Chicago Hope,’ as Mrs Parnett.
Her role in “A Raisin In The Sun” on Broadway earned the mom-of-one a Tony nomination for Best Actress in a play in 2014. She produced the 2020 TV documentary, “Enslaved,” which starred her husband.
LaTanya And Samuel Jackson’s Relationship
The love story of Samuel L Jackson and his wife began following their meeting in college over five decades ago. They became part of each other’s lives in 1970. At the time, LaTanya attended Spelman College while Samuel studied at Atlanta’s Morehouse College, an all-male institution.
They began dating soon after and sustained their relationship for the next ten years. The two eventually tied the knot on August 18, 1980, welcoming their daughter Zoe two years later.
For their 40th wedding anniversary in 2020, the 73-year-old shared photos of him and his wife dancing together, alongside a sweet message reaffirming his love for her and appreciating her enduring presence in his life.
The Secret To Their Union
Aside from being the wife of Samuel L Jackson, LaTanya Richardson is a devoted friend and support system to her husband. This dynamic has kept them going for over five decades.
When asked the secret to their long-lasting union, Latanya and Samuel each had their take on the subject, which they gladly shared with the world. Speaking during their March 2022 interview, the “Juice” actress divulged:
“We always said that the most revolutionary thing that black people could do was stay together, raise their children with the nucleus of having a father and mother.”
However, since most people would rather pretend otherwise, the couple resolved to change the narrative. Hence, they decided to always stay together and figure it out no matter what. This decision, which fast became their mantra, has kept them going to date.
Samuel also shared his take during the interview, saying that sustaining a lasting marriage required two people who respect, love and look out for each other. This isn’t to say marriage has been a bed of roses for the parents of one, who have gone through several difficult times together.
Whatever secret they have applied to keep them going certainly works for Samuel L Jackson and his wife, who after 41 years together and counting rank among the longest-lasting celebrity marriages.