Is The Piano Lesson Based On A True Story? Real-Life Inspirations Explained

Netflix's The Piano Lesson features a highly relatable and universal story, but is its main narrative based on a true story, and what inspired it?

November 22, 2024 · 1 min · 59 words · Chelsea Cook

TheDenzel Washington-producedThe Piano Lessontells the story of the Charles family and their family heirloom, a piano.

Reviews forThe Piano Lessonhave been overwhelmingly positive, and it’s largely due to how relatable its plot is.

There’s also a sense that August Wilson’s workswereinspired by real life.

The Piano Lesson 2024 Film Poster

Doaker (Samuel L. Jackson) looking down and singing with his hand up and Berniece (Danielle Deadwyler) looking wide-eyed in The Piano Lesson

Custom image by Sean Morrison

John David Washington The Creator Tenet

The Piano Lesson (Homage to Mary Lou), by Romare Bearden, 1983

Samuel L. Jackson headshot

Headshot Of John David Washington in The World premiere of ‘Amsterdam’ at Alice Tully Hall

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The Piano Lesson