Laurence Fishburne Rejected "Pulp Fiction" Role Due To Glorification Of Heroin Use

The role of Jules Winnfield, portrayed by Samuel L. Jackson, was originally written for Fishburne.

BYErika Marie
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As one of the most celebrated actors in Hollywood, Laurence Fishburne has been offered many roles that he's decided to turn down. It was back in January when acclaimed director Quentin Tarantino revealed that the Pulp Fiction role of Jules Winnfield, a part that was brilliantly played by Samuel L. Jackson, was originally created with Laurence Fishburne in mind. However, Fishburne would later reject the offer, so production went with Jackson instead. In a recent interview with Vulture, Laurence Fishburne confirmed Tarantino's story and added that the glorification of heroin didn't sit well with him.

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“I just had a problem with the way the heroin use was dealt with,” Fishburne said of the 1994 cult classic flick co-starring Uma Thurman. “I just felt it was a little cavalier, and it was a little loose. I felt like it made heroin use attractive. For me, it’s not just my character. It’s, ‘What is the whole thing saying?’... It wasn’t about my character in Pulp Fiction. It was about the way in which the heroin thing was delivered. And the whole f*cking thing with the hypodermic and the adrenaline shot? No.”

Recently, Laurence Fishburne also revealed that he isn't involved in Matrix 4 because he wasn't asked to join the cast.

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About The Author
Erika Marie is a seasoned journalist, editor, and ghostwriter who works predominantly in the fields of music, spirituality, mental health advocacy, and social activism. The Los Angeles editor, storyteller, and activist has been involved in the behind-the-scenes workings of the entertainment industry for nearly two decades. E.M. attempts to write stories that are compelling while remaining informative and respectful. She's an advocate of lyrical witticism & the power of the pen. Favorites: Motown, New Jack Swing, '90s R&B, Hip Hop, Indie Rock, & Punk; Funk, Soul, Harlem Renaissance Jazz greats, and artists who innovate, not simply replicate.