The Roles That Made Tessa Thompson a Star
By Vinita Jain | Oct 01, 2025 | 05:25 pm
Tessa Thompson has emerged as a formidable name in Hollywood, thanks to her powerful performances and steadfast commitment to diversity in the film industry. From her breakout role in Dear White People to her recent work in Creed and Westworld, Thompson has showcased remarkable versatility and depth as an actor.
Here, we take a closer look at five of her most impactful roles that have shaped her legacy.
1. Dear White People: A Bold Debut
In Dear White People, Thompson plays Sam White, a college student who launches a provocative radio show. This role marked a bold debut as it tackled issues of race and identity head-on. The film received praise for its sharp social commentary, and Thompson’s performance was central to its impact. Her portrayal of Sam was both fierce and vulnerable, making it a memorable and defining start to her career.
2. Creed: A Powerful Partnership
In the Creed series, Thompson takes on the role of Bianca, a musician who becomes the love interest of Adonis Creed. This character allowed her to demonstrate her range as an actor while adding emotional depth to the narrative. Critics applauded the chemistry between Thompson and co-star Michael B. Jordan, noting how their relationship added layers to both characters. Thompson’s performance played a key role in redefining what it means to be a female lead in a sports drama.
3. Westworld: Exploring New Dimensions
Thompson portrays Charlotte Hale in the sci-fi series Westworld, navigating the complexities of artificial intelligence and human emotion. This role gave her the opportunity to explore new dimensions of acting by handling intricate storylines with ease. The show provided a platform for Thompson to showcase her versatility and intelligence while portraying a multifaceted character.
4. Thor: Ragnarok: Redefining Superhero Roles
In Thor: Ragnarok, Thompson took on the role of Valkyrie, a warrior with a complicated past. This was a landmark moment in her career as it helped redefine superhero roles for women in cinema. Valkyrie is strong yet flawed, bringing depth to the Marvel Universe without compromising strength or integrity. Thompson’s portrayal brought authenticity and nuance to this iconic character.
5. Passing: A Nuanced Exploration
In Passing, Thompson plays Irene Redfield in a subtle and powerful exploration of race and identity set in 1920s America. The film delves into the tension between societal norms and personal choices through its characters’ experiences. Thompson’s graceful performance resonated deeply, highlighting complex themes that continue to be relevant today.
Tessa Thompson’s body of work not only showcases her exceptional talent but also reflects her dedication to meaningful storytelling and representation. These roles have truly defined her as one of Hollywood’s most compelling actors.
