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Bruce Willis' Career Advice Helped Samuel L. Jackson Shape His Iconic Role as Nick Fury

The two actors' professional bond and Willis' mentorship highlight the power of recurring characters in building lasting Hollywood careers.

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Overview

  • Bruce Willis encouraged Samuel L. Jackson in 1995 to find a recurring, beloved character to sustain his acting career, citing examples like John McClane and Rocky.
  • Jackson realized the value of this advice after signing a nine-picture deal to portray Nick Fury in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, beginning with 2008's 'Iron Man.'
  • Nick Fury has since become a cornerstone of the MCU, with Jackson appearing in over a dozen films and TV series, including 'Secret Invasion.'
  • Willis retired from acting in 2022 due to aphasia, which later progressed to frontotemporal dementia; his family recently shared he is 'doing great' as he celebrated his 70th birthday on March 19, 2025.
  • Jackson has expressed satisfaction with his career choices, prioritizing fulfilling roles like Nick Fury over traditional accolades such as Oscars.