Seth Meyers kicked things off by warmly introducing his first guest, an Emmy and Golden Globe nominated actress and producer known for standout roles in Westworld, Selma, Creed, Hedda, Sylvie’s Love, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe. As Tessa Thompson walked out to cheers and applause, the two immediately shared a lighthearted moment about it being her first time on the show something they both agreed was long overdue. The conversation quickly turned to her Broadway debut in The Fear of 13 at the James Earl Jones Theatre, with previews beginning that Thursday. Tessa admitted the reality of it all was just starting to sink in, especially after coming straight from rehearsal, joking that now she really had to go through with it.
As they chatted, she described the thrill and nerves of performing live, explaining that the audience feels like an additional character in the show. Having started her career in theater, she shared how returning to the stage feels like coming home, especially after working on Hedda, which reignited her love for that process. Seth noted that both she and her co-star Adrien Brody are making their Broadway debuts, prompting jokes about whether diving in together was a risky move. Tessa laughed it off, saying they’re supported by a seasoned cast and director, even if they’re the “newbies.”
The conversation flowed into her recent projects, including her Netflix series and her connection to Jon Bernthal, who is also stepping onto Broadway, making it an exciting moment for both of them. Tessa described the experience of preparing for the stage as both terrifying and electrifying, even sharing a personal ritual of stopping to touch a photo of James Earl Jones at the theater for a bit of inspiration. The two joked about creating their own pre-show ritual of “accidentally” running into each other on the street, a bit that had the audience laughing.
They also touched on awards season, with Tessa excitedly recalling watching her Creed co-star Michael B. Jordan shine at the Oscars, joking that she almost wanted to rig things in his favor but didn’t need to. From there, the conversation shifted to the play itself, a powerful true story about wrongful incarceration. Tessa explained her role as a volunteer who forms a deep connection with a man imprisoned for a crime he didn’t commit, noting that while the story is intense, it’s also filled with moments of humor, love, and humanity.
When asked how she unwinds after such emotionally heavy performances, Tessa admitted she’s still figuring it out. She shared that she’s tried “body work” (quickly clarifying it’s just massage), and even experimented with reality TV as a way to relax only to find herself binge-watching far more than intended. Laughing, she realized she might need a simpler routine, maybe even something as basic as walking around the city. The interview wrapped on a warm note, with Meyers congratulating her and wishing her luck on opening night, as Tessa expressed gratitude and excitement for what’s ahead.
(Photos by: Lloyd Bishop/NBC)
