Wendell Pierce Reflects on Iconic Roles and New Challenges

NEW YORK, March 27, 2025 — Actor Wendell Pierce is known for his impactful roles in both film and television, having built a career that spans over four decades. In a recent interview with Andscape, Pierce reflected on his favorite performances, including roles in films like “Waiting to Exhale” and “Selma,” and discussed his current portrayal of a villain in the Starz series “Raising Kanan.”

Pierce shared insights into his rich body of work, which has often tackled deep cultural themes and featured complex characters. “I think I have been very fortunate to have played roles that resonate with people on multiple levels,” he stated. “Whether it’s Shakespeare in the theater or a real-life hero like Hosea Williams, the stories we tell matter greatly.”

One of the highlights of Pierce’s career has been his stage performances, particularly in Shakespearean works. “Those words carry so much weight and history,” he explained. “They connect us to our humanity in ways that are profound. I don’t think I could ever detach myself from that part of my career.”

As he embarks on the challenge of playing Ishmael “Snaps” Henry, a complex antagonist in “Raising Kanan,” Pierce emphasizes the importance of diversifying his roles. “Playing a bad guy is a rarity for me, but I see it as an opportunity to explore a different aspect of storytelling,” he remarked. “There’s a unique thrill in revealing the darker facets of human nature and driving the narrative from that perspective.”

Pierce also shared a personal anecdote about his off-screen life, expressing his newfound admiration for a Dublin-based soccer team. This interest was sparked by his friendship with Dominic West, his former co-star from the acclaimed series “The Wire.” “I’ve always been a fan of the sport, but his enthusiasm for his team made me dive deeper into the chaos and joy that soccer brings,” he said, chuckling at the unexpected diversion from his usual work-related discussions.

Kelley L. Carter, a senior entertainment reporter at Andscape, conducted the interview. Known for her insightful commentary on entertainment culture, Carter noted the significance of Pierce’s reflections on the industry and how they highlight the evolving landscape of character representation. “Wendell has always chosen roles that challenge societal norms, and in today’s age, that’s more critical than ever,” Carter remarked.

With a career that continues to evolve, Wendell Pierce remains committed to telling stories that inspire, challenge, and entertain. As he navigates new roles and projects, audiences can look forward to his continued impact on the film and television landscape.