Actor and producer Tessa Thompson believes in the power of storytelling and the lessons it brings. Known for her roles in films like Hedda and the Netflix series His & Hers, Thompson is making waves in Hollywood while reflecting on her personal journey.
She has the words “yes” and “no” tattooed on her arms as a reminder of balance. “I believe I’m always navigating between optimism and a bit of cynicism,” she shares. This mindset has helped her take on unique roles that challenge norms, especially in her latest film Hedda, inspired by Henrik Ibsen’s classic. In this new adaptation, the character is reimagined as a mixed-race queer woman, adding depth and diversity to the narrative.
Thompson is receiving a Golden Globe nomination for her performance, which showcases her ability to tackle complex stories. The film’s director, Nia DaCosta, emphasizes the need for strong reasoning behind adapting classics. “If you’re reworking something classic, you must have something new to say,” DaCosta notes, a sentiment Thompson echoes passionately.
Her upcoming series His & Hers delves into serious themes of identity and returning home under difficult circumstances. To prep for this role, Thompson shadowed journalists, ensuring she captured the essence of a news anchor grappling with her past.
Much of Thompson’s success stems from her upbringing. Raised by her white and Mexican mother and Afro-Panamanian father, she navigated her mixed-race identity early on. Her mother made significant decisions to connect Thompson to her Black heritage, even choosing to homeschool her to escape a racially insensitive school environment.
“I think my awareness of self came from her,” Thompson reflects. This support helped her reclaim her identity in Hollywood. “When faced with pressures to conform, I was prepared to advocate for myself,” she adds, recalling moments when she had to stand firm about representing her own image.
As Thompson looks back, she recognizes the influence of prominent Black women in film, like Whoopi Goldberg and Janet Jackson. “Sharing the screen with those who inspired me was surreal,” she says.
Notably, Thompson once considered leaving acting due to a lack of substantial roles, feeling there wasn’t enough meaningful content in Hollywood. However, she discovered Dear White People, a film that allowed her to explore a deeper character. “I realized I could be more than just a narrative object; I could be the subject,” she describes.
Looking forward, she’s optimistic about Hollywood’s evolution regarding stories about race. While some diversity narratives have slowed, Thompson believes in the cyclical nature of the industry. “There’s always hope for change,” she expresses, reflecting her resilient spirit.
Tessa Thompson’s journey embodies the struggle of many artists today. Her exploration of identity, dedication to authentic storytelling, and belief in positivity continue to inspire those around her.
