5 Shocking New Career Moves & Personal Battles Of Jesse Williams In 2025

Jesse Williams, the actor, director, and activist widely known for his 12-season run as Dr. Jackson Avery on the medical drama *Grey's Anatomy*, has entered a transformative new phase in his career and personal life as of late 2024 and early 2025. This period is marked by a highly anticipated return to television in a new action-drama, discussions of a major Broadway comeback, and a significant legal filing regarding his family life.

The 43-year-old star is actively shaping his post-network-TV legacy, moving into international productions and continuing his acclaimed work on the stage, all while navigating the complexities of co-parenting. The following deep dive provides the most current, up-to-date look at the multifaceted life and career of one of Hollywood’s most outspoken and talented figures.

Jesse Williams: Full Biography and Profile

Jesse Williams is an American actor, director, producer, and prominent civil rights activist. His career spans film, television, and theater, establishing him as a versatile and influential figure in entertainment and social justice.

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• Full Name: Jesse Wesley Williams
• Date of Birth: August 5, 1981
• Age (as of late 2024): 43
• Place of Birth: Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
• Parents: Johanna Chase (Swedish) and Reginald Williams (African-American)
• Education: Temple University (B.A. in African American Studies and Film and Media Arts)
• Early Career: Taught high school in Philadelphia for six years before pursuing acting.
• Breakthrough Role: Dr. Jackson Avery on ABC's *Grey's Anatomy* (2009–2021, with guest appearances since).
• Notable Film Roles: *The Cabin in the Woods* (2012), *The Butler* (2013), *Random Acts of Violence* (2019).
• Stage Debut: Broadway revival of *Take Me Out* (2022).
• Key Awards/Nominations: Tony Award Nomination for Best Performance by a Featured Actor in a Play (*Take Me Out*), BET Humanitarian Award (2016).
• Children: Sadie Williams and Maceo Williams (with ex-wife Aryn Drake-Lee).
• Current Partner: Ciarra Pardo.

The Highly Anticipated Prime Video Series: *Hotel Costiera*

The biggest and most current news in Jesse Williams’ professional life is his starring role in the upcoming Prime Video action drama series, *Hotel Costiera*.

This project represents a significant shift for Williams, moving him from the familiar halls of Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital to an international, high-octane setting. The series is an Italian drama, with Williams leading the cast as a complex and dynamic protagonist.

Who is Daniel De Luca?

In *Hotel Costiera*, Williams takes on the role of Daniel De Luca, a half-Italian former U.S. marine. The series is set against the stunning backdrop of the Italian Riviera.

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De Luca is described as a man who returns to his Italian roots, where he manages a high-end resort. The plot is expected to blend the glamour of the coastal setting with the intensity of an action thriller, likely involving De Luca’s military past and the secrets of the elite clientele.

Excitement at the 2025 Emmys

Williams himself has expressed genuine enthusiasm for the project. While attending the 2025 Emmy Awards, he spoke about his excitement for the new action drama.

The teaser trailer for the 2025 release has already generated buzz, highlighting the project as a major new chapter in his career. This role is a clear demonstration of Williams’ desire to take on diverse, challenging characters outside of the medical genre that defined him for over a decade.

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Broadway Success and the Custody Battle: New Personal and Professional Fronts

While his television career is moving forward, Williams remains deeply connected to the stage, a path he successfully forged after leaving *Grey’s Anatomy*. On the personal front, he is focused on securing more time with his children, which has led to recent legal actions.

The Acclaimed Turn in *Take Me Out*

Jesse Williams made a sensational Broadway debut in 2022 in the revival of Richard Greenberg's play, *Take Me Out*.

His performance as Darren Lemming, a star baseball player who comes out as gay, earned him a prestigious Tony Award nomination for Best Performance by a Featured Actor in a Play.

The role was highly physical and critically praised, cementing his status as a serious stage actor. The play itself was a Tony Award winner for Best Revival.

There has been recent discussion about Williams wanting to return to Broadway, suggesting that his work on the stage is far from over and remains a key priority between film and television projects.

The Ongoing Child Custody Filing

A significant personal update involves Williams' ongoing legal proceedings with his ex-wife, Aryn Drake-Lee, regarding the custody of their two children, daughter Sadie, 10, and son Maceo, 9.

In a recent filing, the actor sought to alter the current child custody agreement. His primary goal is to obtain equal joint physical custody.

This legal step reflects his desire to spend more quality, consistent time with his children as he balances his demanding career schedule, including his new international filming commitments. The desire for a 50/50 arrangement is a key focus of his current personal life.

Activism, Relationships, and The Legacy of Social Justice

Beyond his professional roles, Jesse Williams maintains a strong public profile as a dedicated activist, a commitment that provides significant depth to his public persona and continues to shape his career choices.

A Tireless Advocate for Racial Equality

Williams is a passionate advocate for racial equality and social justice, a commitment he has often prioritized over his acting work.

His work with the Black Lives Matter movement and his powerful, viral speech at the 2016 BET Awards, where he received the Humanitarian Award, remain hallmarks of his activism.

He has been a board member for The Advancement Project, a civil rights advocacy organization, and continues to use his platform to speak out against police brutality and systemic inequality.

This blend of artistry and advocacy is central to the Jesse Williams brand, often influencing the types of projects he chooses to produce or be involved in, such as the Academy Award-winning short film *Two Distant Strangers* (2020), which he executive produced.

Current Relationship and Social Appearances

In his personal life, Williams has been publicly dating Ciarra Pardo. The couple was seen celebrating his 43rd birthday in Paris, indicating a strong, ongoing relationship.

He continues to be a fixture at high-profile industry events, including the 2025 GQ Men of the Year Party, where he mingled with other major celebrities.

He also recently spoke about his enduring friendship with his former *Grey's Anatomy* co-star Eric Dane, highlighting the strong bonds he formed during his long tenure on the hit show.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Jesse Williams

The year 2025 is set to be a landmark year for Jesse Williams. With the premiere of *Hotel Costiera* on Prime Video, he is poised to redefine his image as a leading man in the action genre. His continued engagement with Broadway, coupled with his persistent advocacy for social change, ensures that he remains one of the most relevant and talked-about figures in entertainment.

As he pursues a more balanced co-parenting arrangement for his children, Williams is clearly focused on building a life that honors both his professional ambitions and his deeply held personal values. Fans are eagerly anticipating the next phase of his career, which promises to be as impactful and diverse as his work to date.