After twelve impactful seasons portraying Dr. Jackson Avery on “Grey’s Anatomy,” Jesse Williams is diving into a completely different genre: the international television arena.
In the new Prime Video Italy original series “Hotel Costiera,” Williams — who departed from “Grey’s” in 2021 but continued to make guest appearances afterward — embodies Daniel De Luca, an Italian-American ex-Marine. Set against the stunning backdrop of Positano on Italy’s famous Amalfi Coast, De Luca is portrayed as a resourceful problem-solver in one of the world’s most luxurious hotels.
De Luca is invited by the hotel owner due to his unique position as the only witness who saw a man suspected of kidnapping the owner’s daughter. This intricate plot serves as the backdrop for an episodic structure where De Luca tackles various cases.
Alongside Williams, “Hotel Costiera” features a diverse and talented ensemble cast that includes Maria Chiara Giannetta, Jordan Alexandra, Antonio Gerardi, Sam Haygarth, Tommaso Ragno, Amanda Campana, Pierpaolo Spollon, Alejandra Onieva, and Jean-Hugues Anglade.
The six-episode series is co-produced by Amazon MGM Studios and occupied by Luca Bernabei from Lux Vide, which is the Fremantle-owned Italian company known for producing noteworthy series like “Medici” and the financial thriller “Devils.”
In an interview with Variety, Williams shares his enthusiasm for becoming deeply involved in “Hotel Costiera,” where he holds the position of executive producer as well.
What attracted you to this project?
It started as an early concept, crafted originally in Italian and later translated into English. The foundation was laid by [producer] Luca Bernabei, with Adam Bernstein involved in its development. After reading the material and meeting Adam, I was immediately drawn to the show’s world. The character’s journey resonated with me; he’s a man who has committed himself to the military but now faces the challenge of starting anew. Additionally, he represents a blend of two cultures, which I found relatable as someone who’s American yet biracial in a divided society.
Can you elaborate on this?
These elements initially piqued my interest in the role. At that time, I was eager to explore opportunities outside of the U.S. I’ve always enjoyed global creativity, having studied film and watched various international films. I believe that immersing ourselves in different cultures through cinema is a powerful way to expand our understanding.
Was the show’s global aspect a significant factor for you?
Post-“Grey’s Anatomy,” I wanted to explore endeavors I hadn’t tackled before. I ventured into Broadway and indie films seeking new experiences. I also thought about the possibility of working abroad and engaging in projects that allowed me to collaborate in an international context. My substantial global visibility from “Grey’s” provided me with unique opportunities to explore different markets. There is a growing appetite among American audiences for international content, highlighted by successful shows like “Money Heist” and “Squid Game.” This trend emphasizes the importance of shared storytelling.
In “Hotel Costiera,” you portray a character with ties to two nations. Did you have a role in shaping that aspect?
Absolutely. I was active in the character development process. I wanted to capture the nuances of Daniel’s identity as half Black Italian and half American. How can we subtly incorporate this background into the narrative without making it a political statement? We’ve included authentic elements of his story in a way that feels natural, aided by consulting producer Trey Ellis, a Black American writer with deep ties to Italy and its culture.
Can you share insights about Daniel, particularly his Neapolitan upbringing?
Daniel’s character was shaped by his experiences as a street kid in Naples alongside a friend named Bignè. This background informs his street smarts and comfort with people from all walks of life. He doesn’t come from the wealthy circles of Naples or Rome, which adds a layer of complexity as he navigates the environment of a high-end hotel. His upbringing, marked by instability, likely influenced his decision to enlist in the military and seek structure. Ultimately, he gravitates towards systems that provide him purpose and belonging.
What was it like performing in Italian? Did you work with a coach for your accent?
It was certainly a challenge for me. Language acquisition doesn’t come easily to everyone, and I’m one of those who needed to put in extra effort. I worked with a fantastic group of coaches. Preparing before traveling to Italy was essential, and I had on-set support throughout filming. It required dedication to master the syntax and fundamental rules of the language, but the experience was incredibly rewarding, especially when I delivered lines successfully. The entire production team is Italian, which provided a culturally immersive environment.
You are the sole American actor in the cast. What was your experience collaborating with an international ensemble?
The casting journey was exciting. I played an active role in selecting each member. Reviewing audition tapes from talented individuals worldwide was a delightful process. Interestingly, many actors auditioned for roles they didn’t ultimately get, yet we ended up with a remarkable group. The diversity in styles and backgrounds made for a vibrant on-set atmosphere. I personally enjoy British comedy and appreciate how it brought a unique dynamic to our interactions, especially with actors like Sam Haygarth and Jordan Alexandra, who possess a sharp comedic edge. Antonio Gerardi, playing Bignè, contributes a different masculine wit, resulting in a harmonious blend of characters that consistently surprised me on set.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
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