'Daily Show's' Jessica Williams Lands Her First Lead Film Role
Back when Jessica Williams announced her departure from The Daily Show, she briefly mentioned something about being involved in a romantic comedy, along with her own solo series to come on Comedy Central. Now, we've gotten a little bit of information in regards to the former.
Turns out that Williams will portray "an aspiring playwright" in an as of yet untitled film written by Jim Strouse, according to a press release issued yesterday (Monday). Along with trying to excel in her career, Williams' character is also dealing with the aftermath of a failed relationship, with Atlanta's very own Lakeith Stanfield portraying her ex. Chris O'Dowd and Master Of None's Noel Wells will serve as Williams' new romantic interest and best friend, respectively.
In a statement Strouse said he made the lead role of the forthcoming movie with Williams in mind, after she appeared in his other film, People Places Things. "While I was in the edit room for People Places Things, I kept telling people that I can't wait till she stars in her own movie," Strouse said. "I just decided to get a jump on it and wrote one for her. I couldn't be more thrilled to be making it with Jessica and the rest of this incredible cast which came together around her."
Based off of the aforementioned names this movie already has promise. Wells' performance in Master Of None was entertaining and memorable, while Stanfield has easily become a fan favorite on Atlanta for portraying the aloof and eccentric Darius. And although this will be her first lead role, if Williams' four years at The Daily Show are any indicator, she'll definitely do her role justice.
Currently shooting in New York City, the film is being produced by Michael B. Clark and Alex Turtletaub. Williams is also serving as an executive producer for the movie.
