Tessa Thompson’s ‘Hedda’ Film Features Westworld Star in New Ibsen Adaptation

Tessa Thompson, known for her role as a rebellious android in HBO’s “Westworld,” stars in a bold new film adaptation of Henrik Ibsen’s classic play “Hedda Gabler.”

The film, titled “Hedda,” reimagines the 19th-century drama in a 1950s setting and features Thompson as the complex protagonist in what’s being described as a lesbian love triangle. The adaptation represents a significant departure from traditional interpretations of Ibsen’s work, with Thompson bringing her experience from diverse roles including her acclaimed performance in the now-canceled HBO series.

Contemporary Take on Classic Literature

Thompson’s casting continues her pattern of taking on challenging, unconventional roles across genres. Her portrayal of a conflicted host in “Westworld” demonstrated her ability to navigate complex characters caught between artificial and authentic existence, skills that appear well-suited to Ibsen’s psychologically demanding material.

The actress has built a reputation for transforming established characters across multiple franchises, from her work as Valkyrie in Marvel’s “Thor: Ragnarok” to her various dramatic performances. This latest project continues that trajectory by reimagining one of theater’s most challenging female protagonists.

Westworld Legacy Continues

While HBO canceled “Westworld” after four seasons in November 2022, the series continues to influence casting directors and audiences. Thompson’s involvement in high-profile projects like “Hedda” demonstrates how the show’s impact on actors’ careers extends beyond its original run.

The timing of this announcement comes as “Westworld” experiences renewed interest on streaming platforms, with the series recently finding new distribution deals and maintaining popularity on premium video-on-demand services.

Film Details

“Hedda” promises to challenge audiences with its modern interpretation of Ibsen’s work, using the 1950s setting to explore themes of desire, manipulation, and social constraints that defined the original play. Thompson’s casting as a biracial actor in this adaptation adds another layer of contemporary relevance to the classic material.

The film represents Thompson’s continued commitment to projects that push boundaries and recontextualize familiar stories for modern audiences, following the creative approach she brought to her “Westworld” performance.