Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson is an American actress, producer, and singer who has established herself as one of the most dynamic performers in contemporary cinema. Born on October 3, 1983, in Los Angeles, California, she grew up surrounded by the entertainment industry as the daughter of singer-songwriter Marc Anthony Thompson. She studied cultural anthropology at Santa Monica College before dedicating herself fully to acting, making her professional debut in theater productions and independent films in the mid-2000s.

Thompson’s breakout role came in 2014 with the critically acclaimed film Dear White People, in which she played the lead character Sam White. This was followed by her powerful performance in Creed (2015), where she portrayed Bianca Taylor opposite Michael B. Jordan. The role introduced her to a massive audience and led to her return in Creed II (2018) and Creed III (2023). In 2017, she joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Valkyrie in Thor: Ragnarok, a role she reprised in Avengers: Endgame (2019) and Thor: Love and Thunder (2022). Her portrayal of Valkyrie made history as one of the first openly LGBTQ+ characters in the MCU.

Beyond the MCU, Thompson has demonstrated remarkable range in her choice of roles. She starred in the HBO series Westworld from 2016 to 2022, playing the complex character Charlotte Hale. She also appeared in Sorry to Bother You (2018), Annihilation (2018), and Passing (2021), showcasing her ability to move seamlessly between blockbusters and independent cinema. Her work as a producer has also grown, as she seeks to champion diverse stories and underrepresented voices in Hollywood.

With a net worth estimated at $8 million in 2026, Thompson has built her wealth through a combination of major franchise roles and critically acclaimed independent projects. Her involvement in the Marvel Cinematic Universe has been a significant financial driver, while her producing credits and brand partnerships have diversified her income streams. She continues to be one of the most sought-after actresses in Hollywood.