**The Roles That Made Tessa Thompson a Star**
*By Vinita Jain | Oct 01, 2025, 05:25 pm*
Tessa Thompson has become a name to reckon with in Hollywood, thanks to her powerful performances and 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 proven her versatility and depth as an actor.
Here’s a 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 for Thompson, tackling issues of race and identity head-on. The film received praise for its sharp social commentary, with Thompson’s performance at the core of its impact. Her portrayal of Sam was both fierce and vulnerable, making it a memorable start to her career.
### 2. *Creed*: A Powerful Partnership
In the *Creed* series, Thompson portrays Bianca, a musician and the love interest of Adonis Creed. This role showcased her range and contributed significantly to the emotional depth of the narrative. Critics praised her chemistry with co-star Michael B. Jordan, noting how their partnership added layers to both characters. Thompson’s performance helped redefine what it means to be a female lead in a sports drama.
### 3. *Westworld*: Exploring New Dimensions
Thompson takes on the role of Charlotte Hale in *Westworld*, navigating the complexities of artificial intelligence and human emotion. This sci-fi series provided her a platform to demonstrate versatility and intelligence, handling intricate storylines with ease. Her ability to portray complex characters shines through in this role, adding new dimensions to her acting repertoire.
### 4. *Thor: Ragnarok*: Redefining Superhero Roles
In *Thor: Ragnarok*, Thompson plays Valkyrie, a warrior with a complicated past. This role was a landmark moment, redefining superhero roles for women in cinema. Valkyrie is strong yet flawed, adding depth to the Marvel Universe without compromising strength or integrity. Thompson’s authentic and nuanced performance brought this iconic character vividly to life.
### 5. *Passing*: A Nuanced Exploration
In *Passing*, Thompson portrays Irene Redfield in a subtle yet powerful exploration of race and identity in 1920s America. The film delves into themes of societal norms versus personal choices through its characters’ experiences. Thompson’s graceful performance navigates these complex themes with a depth that resonates strongly with contemporary audiences.
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Tessa Thompson’s diverse roles highlight not only her exceptional talent but also her dedication to stories that challenge and inspire. As she continues to take on challenging and meaningful projects, Thompson remains a force to be reckoned with in Hollywood.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/tessa-thompson-s-hollywood-legacy-5-career-highlights/story
