Jeffrey Wright, Oscar nod, American Fiction: reflects on receiving his initial Oscar nomination for 'American Fiction' while staying true to himself.

Jeffrey Wright, Oscar nod, American Fiction: After being a reliable supporting actor for years, Jeffrey Wright secured his first Oscar nomination for his leading role in "American Fiction." The movie also earned nods for best picture, adapted screenplay by writer-director Cord Jefferson, supporting actor Sterling K. Brown, and original score by Laura Karpman.

Adapted from Percival Everett's 2001 novel "Erasure," the film gained attention by winning the People’s Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival, often a precursor to Oscar success. Wright also received nominations for a Gotham Award, a Golden Globe, a Spirit Award, and a SAG Award.

In this clever satire, Wright portrays Thelonious “Monk” Ellison, a professor and writer facing criticism that his work isn't "Black enough." Balancing care for his mother with Alzheimer’s (Leslie Uggams) and coping with the sudden death of his sister Lisa (Tracee Ellis Ross), Monk, and his brother Cliff (Brown) navigate the aftermath. Frustrated, Monk writes a book under the alias “Stagg R. Leigh” as a parody of Black life depictions in literature, but it unexpectedly becomes a hit. Now, Monk must decide whether to reveal his true identity or continue the charade.

Wright, a Tony and Emmy winner for "Angels in America," spoke with The Times about his Oscar nomination. He was at home in Brooklyn during the announcements, opting to stay away from screens until he got the news, stating, “I just wandered around my house and kept an eye on the phone.”