- Jesse Williams stars in Prime Video’s new series “Hotel Costiera,” set in Positano, Italy.
- Williams told Business Insider that after “Grey’s Anatomy,” he has a checklist of criteria for taking roles.
- His criteria include positive representation and learning something new.
Millions of viewers fell in love with Jesse Williams via his portrayal of Dr. Jackson Avery on ABC’s “Grey’s Anatomy.” But choosing his first starring television role post-“Grey’s” came with high expectations. Thankfully, Williams had a list of criteria to help guide him.
At the New York City premiere party for his newest series, Prime Video’s new dramedy “Hotel Costiera,” Williams told Business Insider that a prerequisite for any show he signs on to is that it “doesn’t harm Black folks,” and is “a positive representation of who we are in the world.”
“Hotel Costiera” is that and more. A visual feast for the eyes, the six-episode series is set at a real-life 5-star hotel in the picturesque Amalfi Coast town of Positano, Italy.
Williams stars as Marine veteran Daniel DeLuca, who’s hired as a fixer for the luxury hotel’s owner and his daughter, who also happens to be the general manager. Each episode sees DeLuca solving a problem — from negotiating with the Italian government to rescuing kidnapped dogs.
It’s a sunny escape of a show — not one of Williams’ required prerequisites. Still, a cinematic trip to Italy certainly sweetens the deal.
Williams shared the other green flags he looks for when choosing roles in Hollywood.
Williams’ green flags in business
Getty Images for Prime Video
-
“Have I done it before?”
Williams also produced “Hotel Costiera,” which provided an exciting new challenge.“I had to produce this project that has no legs, as in, it’s not based on a franchise, or a video game, or a book, or an IP, or anything that’s going to build an audience for me.”
- “Does it take me to a new place?”
“Hotel Costiera” literally took Williams somewhere new — Italy — but Williams emphasized this rule is about being challenged internally as an actor.“I’m the only American in the show…so it’s just a lot of weight, and pressure, and responsibility,” he said.
- “Does it round out my career?”
“I have a lot of different interests,” Williams said, emphasizing that diversity in the characters that he portrays is paramount. “Especially as Black folks, we have to demonstrate we have a lot of different interests or else you’ll be put in a very narrow field.” -
“Is there something I can learn from it?”
It’s not just about growing as an actor. Williams also loves opportunities that help him pick up a new skill or hobby.“With this, I had to learn a new language. I had to learn Italian.”
“Hotel Costiera” is streaming now on Prime Video.
