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Tessa Thompson is everywhere in early 2026. The 42-year-old actress just wrapped a Golden Globe-nominated turn as the title character in Nia DaCosta’s “Hedda,” scored a breakout Netflix hit with the limited series “His & Hers” and is days away from her Broadway debut opposite Adrien Brody in “The Fear of 13.” Fresh off executive-producing deals at Netflix and A24, and with new film projects greenlit, Thompson has re-emerged after a deliberate two-year pause as one of Hollywood’s busiest multihyphenates.

Born Tessa Lynne Thompson on Oct. 3, 1983, in Los Angeles, the actress has built a career bridging blockbuster franchises and intimate indie dramas. Here are 10 essential things to know about her journey, updated with the latest developments as of March 2026.

1. Her multicultural roots shaped a boundary-breaking perspective. Thompson’s father, singer-songwriter Marc Anthony Thompson of the band Chocolate Genius, is Afro-Panamanian. Her mother is of Mexican and European descent. Raised between Los Angeles and Brooklyn, she has spoken openly about navigating multiple identities. That fluidity informs her choices: from portraying civil-rights icon Diane Nash in “Selma” (2014) to a queer-coded warrior in the Marvel universe. In 2026 interviews, she has tied her heritage to her production work, emphasizing stories that reflect “the streets” and underrepresented voices.

2. Stage training came before the screen. A Santa Monica High School graduate, Thompson studied cultural anthropology at Santa Monica College but found her calling with the Los Angeles Women’s Shakespeare Company. She made her professional debut as Ariel in “The Tempest” in 2002 and earned an NAACP Theatre Award nomination as Juliet in a 2003 antebellum adaptation. Those early classical roots prepared her for complex roles. In March 2026 she returns to theater for “The Fear of 13,” her first Broadway production, playing a journalist interviewing a wrongfully convicted man. Previews begin this month at a major New York venue.

3. “Dear White People” launched her as an indie darling. Thompson’s breakout came in Justin Simien’s 2014 satire as activist Samantha White. Critics praised her “ceaseless energy.” The performance won her the Gotham Independent Film Award for Breakthrough Performer and led directly to Ava DuVernay casting her as Diane Nash in “Selma” that same year. The dual 2014 releases established her range: sharp social commentary paired with historical gravitas. She has since executive-produced similar boundary-pushing projects, including 2025’s “Hedda.”

4. Bianca in the “Creed” franchise became her signature role. Ryan Coogler cast Thompson as singer-songwriter Bianca Taylor opposite Michael B. Jordan in 2015’s “Creed.” She reprised the character in “Creed II” (2018) and “Creed III” (2023), writing and performing original songs for the soundtracks. The role showcased her musical talent — she once fronted the indie band Caught a Ghost — and her chemistry with Jordan. As of 2026, fans still speculate about a fourth installment, though Thompson has focused elsewhere. The franchise remains her highest-grossing non-Marvel work.

5. Valkyrie made her a Marvel mainstay. Thompson joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe in 2017’s “Thor: Ragnarok” as the hard-drinking, bisexual warrior Valkyrie. She reprised the role in “Avengers: Endgame” (2019), “Thor: Love and Thunder” (2022) as King Valkyrie, and “The Marvels” (2023). Voice work followed in “What If…?” and the upcoming “Marvel Zombies.” Taika Waititi called her “a Han Solo-like renegade.” In 2026 she has teased more MCU involvement but declined specifics, focusing instead on her production company.

6. “Westworld” proved her television command. From 2016 to 2022 Thompson played Charlotte Hale — and later a host version — in HBO’s sci-fi epic. The role earned her critical acclaim and demonstrated her ability to handle intricate, layered characters. It also opened doors to prestige limited series. Her latest, “His & Hers” (January 2026), a thriller opposite Jon Bernthal that she stars in and executive-produces, racked up 19.9 million views in its first days on Netflix. Industry watchers call it her biggest streaming success to date.

7. She runs her own production company, Viva Maude. Launched in 2021, Viva Maude has produced “Sylvie’s Love” (2020), “The Listener” (2022), “Hedda” (2025) and “His & Hers.” Thompson serves as executive producer on nearly every project. In March 2026 she attached herself to star and produce two new titles: Netflix/A24’s dark-comedy thriller series “Next Door” from “Love Life” creator Sam Boyd, and the feature adaptation of Katie Kitamura’s novel “A Separation,” directed by Jonas Carpignano. She also has “Is God Is” slated for May 15 release. The company lets her control narratives about women of color and queer stories.

8. Her personal life remains private yet proudly fluid. Thompson publicly discussed her attraction to men and women in a 2018 Net-a-Porter interview, saying her family supported whomever she brought home. She and singer Janelle Monáe shared a close, much-speculated relationship for years before amicably moving on. In January 2026 she attended the Golden Globes supported by boyfriend Brandon Green, 31. Paparazzi captured the couple in St. Tropez and at multiple awards events. Thompson has consistently declined to label her sexuality, preferring to focus on work.

9. Activism and industry commentary define her off-screen voice. Thompson has narrated documentaries for International Women’s Day and spoken against ICE policies at awards shows. In February 2026 she called a potential Paramount-Warner Bros. merger “worrisome” for independent creators during “The Fear of 13” press. She uses her platform to champion smaller films and diverse hiring. Her Gotham Awards Spirit Tribute and recent Critic’s Choice recognition reflect peers’ respect for both her performances and advocacy.

10. 2026 marks a deliberate comeback after stepping back. After “Creed III” and “The Marvels” in 2023, Thompson took nearly two years largely out of the spotlight to recharge and build Viva Maude. The strategy paid off. “Hedda” earned her a Golden Globe nomination and Critics’ Choice win. “His & Hers” became an immediate Netflix sensation. Broadway beckons, two new series are in fast-track development, and she teases “a long time coming” secret project. At 42, Thompson is not chasing volume but impact — producing, starring and directing (she helmed a 2024 music video) on her own terms.

Thompson’s trajectory shows no signs of slowing. With Broadway previews starting this month, new Netflix and feature deals rolling out, and her production banner thriving, the actress once known mainly for supporting roles has become a central force in Hollywood. As she told Cultured magazine in February 2026, “I’m really in these streets and for the streets.” Fans and industry alike are watching to see what she builds next.

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Lumentum Holdings Inc. (LITE) Discusses Illuminating the Networks of Tomorrow and Industry Trends March 17, 2026 1:15 PM EDT

Company Participants

Kathryn Ta – Vice President of Investor Relations
Michael E. Hurlston – President, CEO & Director
Wupen Yuen – President of Global Business Units
Wajid Ali – Executive VP & CFO

Conference Call Participants

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Samik Chatterjee – JPMorgan Chase & Co, Research Division
Karl Ackerman – BNP Paribas, Research Division
Simon Leopold – Raymond James & Associates, Inc., Research Division
Christopher Rolland – Susquehanna Financial Group, LLLP, Research Division
Papa Sylla – Citigroup Inc., Research Division
George Notter – Wolfe Research, LLC
Vijay Rakesh – Mizuho Securities USA LLC, Research Division
Meta Marshall – Morgan Stanley, Research Division
Ryan Koontz – Needham & Company, LLC, Research Division

Presentation

Kathryn Ta
Vice President of Investor Relations

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We’re going to get started in about 2 minutes. Just a brief advertisement. If you want to have WiFi, we didn’t pay for extra WiFi here. So you can use the OFC one and the password is on the back of your badge for OFC. So we’re being economical here at Lumentum as always. Everyone quieted down really quickly there. So I guess we can go ahead and get started.

So my name is Kathy Ta. I’m the Vice President of Investor Relations here at Lumentum. Really, really glad to see you all here, see a lot of familiar and friendly faces. And as expected, a packed room with everyone sitting around the periphery. I don’t see anyone standing just yet, but I think that will happen as people leave to some of the other events. So today, we’re going to be talking with you about illuminating the networks of tomorrow.

I’m super excited to be doing this event right after yesterday’s event at NVIDIA. I’m sure you all have questions about what you heard

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Indian stock markets have no holidays scheduled for this week, hence the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) will remain open on festivals like Ugadi, Gudi Padwa and Eid-Ul-Fitr.

According to the official holiday calendar, markets will remain shut for two more days in March. NSE and BSE will remain closed for trading on March 26 (Thursday) for Shri Ram Navami, and then on March 31 (Tuesday) for Shri Mahavir Jayanti.

Ugadi will be celebrated on Thursday, March 19. The festival marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year, and is widely celebrated in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, while it is known as Yugadi in Karnataka.

Gudi Padwa marks the Marathi New Year, and is celebrated widely in Maharashtra. This festival too will be celebrated on March 19.

Eid-Ul-Fitr is likely to be celebrated on Saturday, March 21, and the sighting of the moon is likely to happen on the Friday evening of March 20, marking the culmination of the holy month of Ramadan.

Notably, as per the original holiday list published by the stock exchanges before the beginning of the year, Eid-Ul-Fitr was one of the four market holidays that fell on a Saturday or Sunday. The other three include Mahashivratri (Sunday, February 15), Independence Day (Sunday, August 15) and Diwali Laxmi Pujan (November 8).
Earlier on March 3, Indian stock markets were closed on account of Holi. This led to some confusion among investors because the festival of colours was celebrated in most parts of the country on March 4 instead.Indian stock markets are set to see 11 more market holidays this year, with two coming up in April. NSE and BSE will remain shut on April 3 on account of Good Friday, and on April 14 on Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar Jayanti.

The exchanges may alter any of the above holidays, for which a separate circular shall be issued in advance.

(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times)

In an increasingly uncertain global environment marked by prolonged geopolitical tensions and volatile commodity markets, investors are being forced to rethink traditional allocation strategies. What once worked in a relatively stable world order—balanced exposure across equities, commodities, and currencies—is now being tested by deeper structural shifts. Market participants are closely watching how global money flows evolve amid rising oil prices, persistent inflation, and signals from major central banks, with the focus shifting from pure returns to resilience.

Speaking to ET Now, Andrew Freris, CEO, Ecognosis Advisory highlighted the long-term nature of the ongoing conflict and its implications, stating, “I believe this war will last for several months, if not years.” He attributed this to a lack of clear strategic direction, adding, “They have tactics but zero strategy… you never win a war if you don’t know what you are fighting for.” His assessment suggests that prolonged geopolitical tensions are likely to keep markets on edge and drive structural changes across asset classes.

He further pointed out that such conflicts tend to accelerate shifts in global energy markets. Drawing parallels with past developments, he noted, “Europe moved away quickly from dependence on Russian gas, and the same kind of shift is likely again.” At the same time, he dismissed extreme fears around supply disruptions, saying,

“There are many ways to transport oil… the US does not depend on the Strait of Hormuz.” The broader takeaway, according to him, is that diversification of energy sources and supply chains will become increasingly critical.

On sectoral opportunities, Freris made a blunt but realistic observation, stating, “Put more money into defence stocks… they are likely to continue doing very well.”

While acknowledging the ethical concerns around such investments, he added, “It might be immoral, but that is the reality of the world.” His comments reflect a growing trend among investors to consider defence and security-linked companies as part of their portfolios amid rising geopolitical risks.
Turning to central banks, Freris expects policymakers to remain cautious despite mounting global uncertainties. “They will not cut interest rates while inflation pressures remain,” he said, emphasizing that inflation continues to be sticky. He added, “It is not going down… it moves around but stays elevated,” indicating that the path to monetary easing may be slower than markets anticipate.On crude oil, which has surged close to the $100 mark, Freris suggested that prices are unlikely to correct sharply in the near term. “It is unlikely we go back to $60 anytime soon,” he said, while also noting that structural adjustments will eventually take place. “It will take time, but alternative routes and systems will develop,” he added, pointing to a gradual normalization rather than an immediate decline.

Taken together, these trends indicate that the global investment landscape is undergoing a meaningful shift. Commodities, particularly oil, are gaining prominence, while defence-linked equities are drawing increased attention. At the same time, central banks remain constrained by inflation, limiting the scope for policy easing. In such an environment, adaptability and diversification are emerging as the defining principles for investors navigating an increasingly complex world.

Council chiefs unable to accept terms for proposed deal from Horizon Aero Group

There are serious questions over what impact the sale of Gloucestershire Airport falling through will have on the City Council’s financial recovery plan.

Negotiations had been underway for more than eight months to sell the 375-acre site in Staverton which is jointly owned by Cheltenham Borough Council and Gloucester City Council.

There has been growing concern in recent months and suggestions that the deal, worth more than £25m, was in trouble and would fail.

Suggestions that the deal was in trouble after missed deadlines and delays in completing the sale were repeatedly dismissed.

Council chiefs could not say earlier this month if they were optimistic or not that the sale would be completed.

But just over a week later, they finally announced in a joint statement that the deal had fallen through.

Council chiefs said they were disappointed they were unable to accept the terms from Horizon Aero Group, their preferred bidder.

They said it had moved significantly away from the original bid prospectus, and recognise that this news will be disappointing for many people who had hoped for immediate certainty about the future of the site

Reacting to the announcement, Conservative group leader Stephanie Chambers (C, Quedgeley Fieldcourt) said the collapse of the sale at such a late stage is “devastating”.

“Especially when the council was relying on the cash injection to help protect local services,” she said.

“[Council leader Jeremy] Hilton has previously argued that delays reflected a very detailed process that would deliver the best outcome. The result speaks for itself.

“This has dragged on, missed deadlines, and ended in failure, creating uncertainty for businesses, staff, and the wider local economy.

“Now we need answers, not excuses. What changed, when did it change, and why were opposition councillors not properly kept informed as the deal unravelled.

“Residents deserve facts, not spin, and a clear plan for what happens next.”

She said her group will be calling for a wide ranging public consultation to shape the future of the airport.

“This is the moment to be bold, bring forward fresh investment and jobs, and make the airport a true catalyst for growth, innovation, and pride across our whole region,” she said.

Councillor Terry Pullen (Moreland), who leads the Labour group in Gloucester, said he does not know why the airport sale fell through but is concerned about the “awful lost of time and money” wasted on the process.

“I understand that consultants fees alone were in excess of £200,000 and I expect the final figure allowing for legal fees to be considerably more than that,” he said.

“This money could have been far better spent on essential council services.”

He also says the implications for the council are “serious and long reaching” with no “single plan B but a series of plans”

“No one is saying what they are,” he said.

He said what is most worrying is the expected income from the sale was a significant factor in paying off the £15.5m emergency bailout loan the City Council has secured to avoid becoming effectively bankruptcy.

READ MORE: Jockey Club secures £100m deal with plans for ‘rooftop hospitality’ at Cheltenham RacecourseREAD MORE: New push for Gloucester to Hereford rail link to help with plans for thousands of new homes

“This will now put the council in an even more precarious financial situation and may have an effect on public services,” he said.

“Gloucester City Council now needs to have a serious rethink about its plans for the future of the airport.

“A full economic impact assessment needs to be carried out to determine the best use of the airport site in future. It’s time for some more radical thinking.

“The airport is running at a loss and it is unfair to expect council tax payers to keep bailing it out.”

Meanwhile, Community Independent leader Alastair Chambers (Matson, Robinswood and White City) said he believes council chiefs have been aware the airport deal would not go through for at least a month.

He also believes information was withheld until after the City Council secured its bailout from the Government.

“If ministers had known the airport deal had collapsed, there is a real possibility that the financial support request could have been rejected,” he said.

READ MORE: ‘Can’t keep throwing money into a leaky bucket’: Calls for fix to Gloucester Docks’ major navigation disruptionREAD MORE: Hugh Osmond-backed Various Eateries acquires four premium pubs for £11.5m

He also asks how the council intends to balance its finances going forward if it was relying on its share from the airport sale.

“Residents deserve honesty and transparency. Instead, they appear to have been kept in the dark while critical financial decisions were being made,” he said.

“Once again, public trust in the council’s leadership has been damaged.”

In Cheltenham, People Against Bureaucracy Councillor Stan Smith (Prestbury) said the collapse of the airport sale came as no surprise to him as the process was taking so long.

However, while he sits on the overview and scrutiny committee which looks into airport issues, he said he was kept in the dark.

He said he was not directly informed about the sale falling through but found out about it reading Gloucestershire Live.

“I’ve been waiting for it to collapse, to be honest,” he said.

“But I didn’t get notified. I didn’t know anything about it until I read about it on your newspaper’s website.

“They didn’t let me know. I have a problem with them letting me know anything.

“I get rather frustrated about it. I’ve had my say to the council and said I may as well talk to a wall.

“They’re restricting me from doing my job but it isn’t going to get me down.”

However, he believes the sale falling through will affect the City Council more than the Borough Council.

“I anticipate that it was money they were looking for to bail them out,” he said.

READ MORE: Ribena and Lucozade factory gets £25m investment from SuntoryREAD MORE: Bristol Arena name announced after YTL strikes deal with Aviva

“The council will do what the council does. The Lib Dems will do what the Lib Dems want to do and everybody else can be told what they want to be told in snippets. It’s a bad way really.”

Borough Council leader Rowena Hay (LD, Oakley) said they are disappointed they couldn’t reach an agreement on a sale of the airport after a long period of time.

But it is their duty to deliver best value on the sale of the airport.

”We fully appreciate the concern this will cause, particularly for those employed at the airport who will have worked hard to support the sale process,” she said.

“As we move forward, we are committed to continued engagement with staff, operators, tenants and key stakeholders to discuss the future and reach a positive outcome for Gloucestershire Airport.”

City Council leader Jeremy Hilton (LD, Kingsholm and Wotton) said the news is clearly disappointing as it would have provided a strong future for the site.

“I fully recognise that people hold different views about the potential uses of the site, but our responsibility is to take a measured, evidence‐based approach that leads to the right outcome for the long term,” he said.

Developer says scheme could support hundreds of jobs

A developer plans to build giant logistics sheds next to a motorway junction which they say would support 380 jobs.

Peel Land is working on plans for 323,000 square feet of new employment space on green land close to junction 4 of the M61, close to the border of Bolton borough with Salford.

Peel is the same developer behind the controversial Astley Business Park just a few miles away in Tyldesley, which has come under fire from nearby residents.

That 350,000 sq ft logistics site is all but complete. Opponents have criticised the huge scale and appearance of the ‘towering warehouses’.

A scoping report prior to a full planning application, has been published by Bolton council for the Junction 4 development.

If approved, the development would sit next to the Logistics North employment park, created by Harworth Group at the former Cutacre surface mine.

Logistics North is one of the largest developments of its kind in the country, having delivered more than three million sq ft of commercial space since receiving initial outline planning consent in December 2013.

Companies operating there include Aldi, Amazon, Lidl and Whistl, who between them employ around 5,500 people.

A spokesperson for Peel Land said: “Peel Land is preparing a planning application for a new employment development on land at Junction 4 of the M61, adjacent to Logistics North.

“The proposals would support up to 380 jobs across a range of roles, helping to create new employment opportunities for people in Bolton. The scheme sits adjacent to Logistics North and within the Northfold Growth Area, identified by Greater Manchester Combined Authority as a key location for employment and economic growth.

“The aim is to bring forward new jobs and support long-term investment in Bolton and Hulton.

“This proposal relates specifically to land at Junction 4 and is separate from other applications being progressed in the wider area, including those at Lee Hall and Hulton Park.”

Peel Land said that a planning application will be submitted in due course, which will then be subject to a statutory public consultation by Bolton Council.

It said a pre-application public consultation with site neighbours and local councillors has already been undertaken, with feedback being incorporated into the plans.

A spokesman added: “In the meantime, anyone who would like further information or has questions about the proposals can contact the project team at contact@junction4employment.co.uk.”