In the high-stakes world of Hollywood filmmaking, few experiences can match the intensity of being called out by a legend like Denzel Washington. For Jurnee Smollett, a then-19-year-old rising star, such a moment came on the set of The Great Debaters (2007), where Washington served as both director and co-star. What began as a humbling critique for being overly rehearsed and “stale” turned into a transformative masterclass that shaped Smollett’s approach to acting. Her story, shared during a 2020 interview with Jude Law for Variety’s Actors on Actors series, reveals how Washington’s tough love and sharp direction unlocked her potential, leaving an indelible mark on her craft and career. Dive into this inspiring behind-the-scenes tale of growth, spontaneity, and the power of mentorship.

A Young Star’s Confidence Meets a Reality Check

At 19, Jurnee Smollett was no stranger to the screen. Having started acting as a child in films like Eve’s Bayou (1997) and TV shows like Full House, she arrived on the set of The Great Debaters brimming with confidence. The film, a stirring drama about the Wiley College debate team in the 1930s, demanded emotional depth and authenticity from its cast, which included heavyweights like Washington, Forest Whitaker, and a young Denzel Whitaker. Smollett, playing the trailblazing debater Samantha Booke, was eager to prove herself in a pivotal debate scene—a moment central to the film’s narrative of resilience against racial injustice.

But during rehearsals, Smollett hit a wall. She had meticulously prepared her lines, aiming to nail every beat of the scene. Yet, as she recounted to Jude Law, Washington saw through her polished performance. “I thought I was ready, but I was too rehearsed,” Smollett admitted. “It was stale.” Washington, with his keen eye for authenticity, didn’t hold back. He called her out in front of the cast, pointing out that her overly practiced delivery lacked the spark needed to bring the scene to life. For a young actress, the critique was a gut punch—but it was also the beginning of a breakthrough.

Denzel’s Directorial Wisdom: “Get an Answer”

Rather than leaving Smollett to flounder, Washington took a strategic approach to help her grow. Recognizing her potential, he adjusted the shooting schedule, allowing her scenes to be filmed last to give her time to loosen up. “He saw I was nervous,” Smollett recalled, noting how Washington’s experience as an actor informed his empathetic yet firm direction. His advice was deceptively simple but profoundly impactful: “If you’re gonna ask a question, get an answer.” This directive wasn’t just about line delivery—it was a call to fully inhabit her character, to engage with the scene as if it were unfolding in real time.

The instruction forced Smollett to shift her mindset. Instead of focusing on hitting her marks perfectly, she needed to embrace the unpredictability of the moment. Washington’s words pushed her to connect emotionally with her co-stars, particularly in the high-stakes debate scenes where her character’s passion and conviction had to shine. The result was a performance that felt raw, dynamic, and alive—qualities that made her scenes in The Great Debaters unforgettable. Critics and audiences alike praised Smollett’s portrayal, with The New York Times noting the “fiery conviction” she brought to Samantha Booke, a testament to the breakthrough Washington helped her achieve.

A Safe Place to Fail Big

For Smollett, the experience was more than just a lesson in acting—it was a masterclass in balancing preparation with spontaneity. “It was a safe place to fail big,” she told Jude Law, reflecting on how Washington’s set fostered growth through risk-taking. His direction gave her the freedom to let go of perfectionism and tap into the emotional truth of her character. This lesson became a cornerstone of her career, influencing her later performances in projects like Underground, Lovecraft Country, and Birds of Prey. Washington’s ability to challenge her while providing a supportive environment showed her that true artistry often lies in embracing vulnerability.

Interestingly, Smollett’s conversation with Jude Law revealed a shared perspective on the dangers of over-rehearsal. Law echoed her sentiments, noting that excessive preparation can sometimes stifle the organic energy needed for a compelling performance. “You want to keep it fresh,” Law said, emphasizing the importance of staying open to the moment. Their discussion highlighted how directors like Washington play a crucial role in guiding actors toward that delicate balance, ensuring performances feel alive rather than mechanical.

Washington’s Legacy of Mentorship

Washington’s impact on Smollett mirrors his broader legacy of mentorship in Hollywood. As seen in his quiet support for Chadwick Boseman’s education and his electrifying direction on Grey’s Anatomy, Washington has a track record of uplifting rising talents. For Smollett, his guidance was a turning point that helped her transition from a child actor to a powerhouse performer capable of tackling complex roles. His approach—tough yet nurturing—reflects his deep understanding of the craft, honed over decades of delivering iconic performances in films like Glory and Training Day.

The Great Debaters itself was a passion project for Washington, who not only directed but also starred as Melvin B. Tolson, the real-life debate coach who led Wiley College to national acclaim. The film’s themes of perseverance, intellect, and breaking barriers resonated deeply with Smollett, who saw parallels between her character’s journey and her own growth under Washington’s tutelage. The movie earned critical acclaim, with Roger Ebert calling it “inspiring and uplifting,” and Smollett’s performance stood out as a highlight, thanks to the spark Washington helped her ignite.

A Lesson That Endures

Nearly two decades later, Smollett continues to carry the lessons from that day on set. Her ability to blend preparation with spontaneity has defined her as one of Hollywood’s most versatile actresses, capable of delivering both heart-wrenching drama and action-packed intensity. In her 2020 Variety interview, she expressed gratitude for Washington’s tough love, crediting it with teaching her how to “fail big” and grow from it. The experience also deepened her appreciation for directors who challenge their actors to push beyond their comfort zones, a quality she now seeks in her collaborations.

For fans of The Great Debaters, Smollett’s story adds a new layer of appreciation for the film’s powerful performances. It’s a reminder that behind every great scene is a story of growth, struggle, and mentorship. Washington’s simple yet profound advice—“If you’re gonna ask a question, get an answer”—became a mantra that unlocked Smollett’s potential and continues to resonate with actors navigating the fine line between discipline and spontaneity.

Discover the Full Story

Jurnee Smollett’s transformative moment on the set of The Great Debaters is a testament to the power of mentorship and the courage to embrace imperfection. Denzel Washington’s direction didn’t just shape a single performance—it helped mold a career that continues to inspire. Want to dive deeper into how this pivotal moment defined Smollett’s craft and fueled her rise in Hollywood? Click here to read the full story and explore the behind-the-scenes magic of The Great Debaters!