Wendell Pierce on Acting, Legacy, and Challenges

Wendell Pierce currently stars in Othello at the Shakespeare Theatre Company in Washington, D.C. He is well-known for his roles in The Wire and Treme, and recently received a Tony Award nomination for his performance in the Broadway revival of Death of a Salesman. Pierce describes his career as one driven by the ‘ticking clock of mortality’ and an aspiration to challenge himself. He embraces the term ‘journeyman actor’, choosing roles intentionally across television, film, and theater each year.

Embracing Shakespeare

Pierce compares Shakespearean acting to detective work. He emphasizes the importance of analyzing the text to understand the characters and their portrayal. The physical and emotional demands of performing Othello for three hours require great stamina. Pierce draws parallels to climbing a significant mountain when taking on such iconic roles.

Insights from Jazz

An epiphany during a jazz performance helped Pierce understand Shakespeare. Listening to Arthur Blythe’s free and structured saxophone solo revealed the importance of having freedom within a form. This realization allowed Pierce to connect with Shakespeare’s work without feeling restricted by the verse.

Reflecting on The Wire

Pierce has faced criticism for portraying stereotypes on The Wire. A conversation with an African American woman on a train made him question the show’s focus. An encounter at a wrap party with a young actor who played a troubled character who also secured a full scholarship to Brown University reinforced the importance of showing diverse narratives. It prompted Pierce to continue with the show, recognizing its broader social message.

Caring for Family

Pierce shared the profound experience of caring for his father in the last decade of his life. His father, a World War II veteran who fought for his rights in a country that often denied them, deeply influenced Pierce’s work and life. Time with his father provided insight and inspiration, reinforcing values he brings to his roles.

Preserving Black History

Pierce discusses the erasure of Black history efforts as an affront to the African-American community. He calls this a ‘visceral attack’ and stresses the importance of self-determination and preserving the legacy of contributions made by Black individuals in America.

This interview was produced and edited by Ann Marie Baldonado and Nico Gonzalez Wisler for broadcast. Bridget Bentz, Molly Seavy-Nesper, and Beth Novey adapted it for the web.