Jesse Williams hopes you’ll get to know him.
Not just as Dr. Jackson Avery from “Grey’s Anatomy” or the acclaimed baseball star in “Take Me Out” on Broadway, but as a more lighthearted, physically dynamic version of himself in the new Prime Video action series, “Hotel Costiera.”
In “Hotel Costiera,” Williams portrays Daniel De Luca, a former Marine at a pivotal moment in his life. He returns to his childhood home in Italy, where he takes on a new role as a ‘fixer’ at a luxurious resort nestled on the stunning Amalfi Coast.
Williams explains that he chose the sun-drenched backdrop of “Hotel Costiera” specifically to balance the serious persona he often adopted during his years as an activist and educator. He felt this earnestness sometimes overshadowed the fun-loving, “Monty Python”-esque prankster he truly is, eager to show a different side.
At 45, Williams confidently states, “I feel like my career is just beginning because I was only on one show for a decade, and I started when I was almost 30.”
He shared his enthusiasm in a recent video interview: “I’m excited to be able to share this with the world and kind of introduce myself to the audience for the first time.” The conversation also touched on his love for watching movies, his adventurous sailing days in his 20s, and his recent dive into the works of Tennessee Williams. Below are edited excerpts from that engaging discussion.
My Kids
I’m a deeply involved father to my 11-and-a-half-year-old daughter and 10-year-old son. While my work often takes me away, which can be tough, I’m incredibly grateful for technology like FaceTime and WhatsApp video that allows me to help with homework, read bedtime stories, and remain a constant presence in their lives.
My Sleep Mask
While I can easily doze off in the sun at the beach, for truly restorative sleep, I prefer complete darkness. Modern sleep masks often feature eye pockets to prevent pressure, but surprisingly, I actually prefer the comforting sensation of gentle pressure – it feels like my eyeballs are being swaddled!
My Pocket Planner
Born in 1980, I consider myself a tactile, pre-digital individual. Although much of life now requires online interaction, as a creative, I find it more authentic and effective to jot down ideas, brainstorm on the fly, and manage my tasks in a physical pocket planner. My phone simply doesn’t offer the same satisfying, ‘warm’ experience.
Maine
For me, Maine holds a special place as the most wonderful place on Earth. It’s deeply connected to my mother’s family, who were generations of boat builders and sea captains. My great-grandfather secured a coastal plot of land, which was then passed down. My grandfather, in turn, passed it to his seven children, each of whom had to build their own cabin to claim their share. This lineage has given us these enchanting, narrow coves – a true paradise, yet one that embodies a practical, hands-on, and hard-earned heritage.
Sailing
In my early 20s, I embarked on an unforgettable sailing adventure with my high school best friend and another companion. We navigated a 30-foot sloop from Providence all the way up towards Nova Scotia, spending five or six days without ever touching land. We witnessed whales, sharks, and dolphins, experiencing breathtaking sunrises, sunsets, and moonrises. We also faced formidable storms, with massive 12-, 14-, even 15-foot waves, requiring us to buckle into the mast in full rain gear – it was truly dangerous. This journey was a pivotal experience for me as a young man, solidifying my profound reverence for the ocean.
Barefoot in the Grass
I have a deep love for nature, and particularly, for being barefoot. The moment I step into my house, the shoes and socks come off without hesitation. Sometimes, the rest of my clothes might follow suit!
Cherries
Cherries are wonderfully refreshing, hydrating, and simply bursting with life. I often set up a little station, enjoying them while watching something, spitting out the pits – there’s a satisfying, engaging activity to it.
A Good Italian Red
I’m not much for hard alcohol or casual beer drinking. Instead, I truly appreciate a fine Italian red, like a Barolo, Brunello, or Barbera d’Asti. I think part of the appeal lies in the rich heritage and meticulous craftsmanship of these wines, knowing they were thoughtfully created rather than being a mass-produced, ‘throwaway’ chemical concoction.
Movie Libraries
Many actors and industry professionals might immediately mention Criterion, but I appreciate all the various movie libraries out there. HBO has a fantastic selection, and Prime also offers a great collection. Immersing myself in cinema and reading plays not only informs my acting process and my craft but also deeply nourishes my soul.
Reading Plays
My journey into reading plays began relatively late, only when I started working in theater. Despite living in New York for nearly a decade, I rarely attended Broadway shows – partly due to cost, and partly because acting wasn’t my focus then. Now, I’m making up for lost time, embarking on my “Theater 101” and discovering the brilliance of playwrights like Tennessee Williams for the very first time.