Jeffrey Wright DiscussesErasure, the Novel that InspiredAmerican Fiction: ‘It’s A Great Read’ (Exclusive)

Mar. 15, 2025

Jeffrey Wright.Photo:Vivien Killilea/Getty

Vivien Killilea/Getty

American FictionandErasureboth follow Thelonious “Monk” Ellison, a Black author who is frustrated that books rife with stereotypes sell better than his own, more nuanced work. In protest, he writes his own stereotypical novel under a pen name. The book immediately sells and takes on a life of its own, leaving Monk to navigate the web of lies he’s spun.

Jeffrey Wright in ‘American Fiction’.Claire Folger

Claire Folger

“So the film, I think, has a universal appeal,” he continued. “It’s not just limited to the publishing world and it’s not just limited to the Black experience. We wanted to make a film that would touch people across backgrounds, across borders, and I think we have.”

Never miss a story — sign up forPEOPLE’s free daily newsletterto stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.Wright, who has previously appeared in television shows likeWestworld, and who holds an Emmy Award for his role in the HBO miniseriesAngels in America, is seeing his first Academy Award nomination withAmerican Fiction. Hepreviously told PEOPLEabout the moment he received the news.“There was reams of texts and phone calls and well wishing, and it was pretty moving,” he said.The 96th Academy Awards will air on Sunday, March 10 at 7 p.m. ET.

source: people.com