William Jackson Harper is a name that has steadily gained recognition in the entertainment industry. His talent and versatility as an actor have made him a standout in several notable projects, with his career spanning television, film, and theater. While most may recognize him for his memorable role as Chidi Anagonye in The Good Place, Harper’s breadth of work goes far beyond this popular sitcom. Whether playing deeply thoughtful characters, providing comic relief, or taking on intense dramatic roles, Harper’s performances showcase a wide array of skills that make him an actor worth watching.
For fans of The Good Place, it’s easy to believe that Harper’s career is defined solely by his portrayal of the neurotic, moral philosopher Chidi. However, looking deeper into his resume reveals a collection of roles that are just as captivating and deserving of attention. Let’s explore some of his best performances that you might have missed—roles that highlight his acting prowess, versatility, and unique charm.
1. Midsommar (2019) – The Calm Before the Storm
A film that many horror fans were talking about in 2019 was Midsommar, directed by Ari Aster. Known for its disturbing imagery and slow-burn horror, the film explores the unraveling of a couple’s relationship as they attend a pagan festival in Sweden. In this unsettling horror-thriller, Harper plays Christian’s friend, Josh, who is a graduate student trying to write his thesis on the festival’s rituals.
Josh might not have the screen time of some of the other characters, but Harper’s portrayal is haunting. His character’s ambition and discomfort in the unfamiliar environment give his performance a quiet intensity that contrasts against the chaos unfolding around him. Harper’s performance manages to embody both a sense of tension and curiosity, serving as a key part of the film’s disturbing atmosphere. The film’s slow-burning tension and eerie setting make Harper’s understated role all the more impactful.
2. The Good Place (2016–2020) – Chidi Anagonye’s Internal Struggle
For many, William Jackson Harper’s role as Chidi Anagonye in The Good Place is what truly put him on the map. As one of the main characters, Chidi is a moral philosopher who finds himself in the afterlife and is tasked with helping guide his fellow residents towards ethical behavior. But Chidi’s ultimate dilemma is his own self-doubt, crippling indecision, and fear of making mistakes.
While the character of Chidi is written as neurotic, Harper brings an additional level of complexity and depth to the role. His comedic timing is impeccable, playing off the show’s absurd premise with charm and vulnerability. His often hilarious “paralysis by analysis” moments make him endearing to viewers, and Harper’s subtle ability to showcase Chidi’s internal conflict brings a surprising emotional depth to the show’s lighthearted premise. It’s easy to see why The Good Place remains one of Harper’s most beloved roles.
However, it’s the quiet moments of reflection, where Chidi grapples with deep philosophical questions, that highlight Harper’s true range as an actor. Whether it’s Chidi’s struggles with the idea of free will or his relationship with Eleanor (Kristen Bell), Harper always manages to bring authenticity to his performance, proving that his talents go far beyond just comedy.
3. Love Life (2020) – A Subtle, Heartfelt Performance
In the anthology series Love Life, which focuses on the romantic relationships of its central character Darby (Anna Kendrick), William Jackson Harper takes on the role of Marcus, a quiet but deeply thoughtful love interest. The show features various relationships that shape Darby’s growth over the years, and Marcus is one of the pivotal figures in her journey.
Harper’s performance as Marcus is remarkably grounded and understated, offering a refreshing take on the romantic lead. His character is calm, intellectual, and emotionally mature, but it’s clear that Marcus’s personal struggles and complicated history make him more than just a love interest. Harper is able to subtly communicate the complexity of Marcus’s emotions, showing a vulnerability that makes the character relatable without overtly dramatizing it. His portrayal of Marcus is sweet, sincere, and heartbreakingly realistic, capturing the essence of love and loss.
4. The Electric Dreams (2017) – “Real Life” Episode
Philip K. Dick’s Electric Dreams is an anthology series based on the works of the famed sci-fi writer. In the episode titled “Real Life,” William Jackson Harper plays a character named Richard, a man caught in a futuristic, high-tech virtual reality world. The story explores themes of consciousness, memory, and the fine line between the real world and simulated experiences.
Harper’s performance in this episode is quietly haunting and deeply philosophical. He plays Richard as a man desperate to escape his harsh reality, only to find himself increasingly lost within a simulation that offers more questions than answers. The complexity of his performance lies in how effortlessly Harper conveys Richard’s internal struggle as he grapples with his desires and the consequences of escaping into a virtual utopia.
The episode’s thought-provoking themes, paired with Harper’s nuanced portrayal of a man caught between two worlds, make it one of his most memorable and overlooked performances. He brings depth and weight to a story that hinges on the notion of identity and the ethics of technology, underscoring just how adept Harper is at tackling more abstract and complex narratives.
5. The Last Black Man in San Francisco (2019) – A Heartfelt Exploration of Home
In the 2019 drama The Last Black Man in San Francisco, William Jackson Harper plays a supporting role as one of the key characters in the film’s story about identity, gentrification, and belonging. Harper’s character, Mont, is a friend and confidant to the film’s protagonist, Jimmie (played by Jimmie Fails). Mont is a gentle, intelligent man who has a deep connection to Jimmie, offering emotional support throughout the film’s exploration of themes like loss and the search for home.
Though Mont’s role is smaller compared to the lead characters, Harper’s portrayal of the character brings a sense of grounded warmth and sincerity to the film. His nuanced performance highlights his ability to infuse even the smallest of roles with emotional depth. Mont’s relationship with Jimmie is tender, and Harper beautifully conveys the character’s sense of loyalty and understanding, making his role both a quiet anchor in the story and a testament to his acting skill.
6. The Twilight Zone (2019) – “The Wonderkind” Episode
In The Twilight Zone reboot, William Jackson Harper appeared in the episode titled “The Wonderkind,” a dark tale about a young political influencer and his rise to fame. Harper plays Gary, a campaign manager who is brought into the orbit of the young and promising politician. In the episode, Harper’s character serves as a grounding presence, a voice of reason against the absurdity that surrounds the politician’s rise.
The episode itself is a social commentary on the dangers of celebrity culture and political manipulation, and Harper’s performance brings depth to the character of Gary. His subtle, cautious demeanor contrasts with the more flamboyant figures around him, and the tensions between his own moral compass and the political machine make for an intriguing watch.
Conclusion: A Diverse Range of Roles
While William Jackson Harper’s career is often defined by his role in The Good Place, his extensive portfolio of performances deserves much more attention. Whether it’s the unsettling calm in Midsommar, the philosophical exploration of The Electric Dreams, or the deep emotional resonance of Love Life and The Last Black Man in San Francisco, Harper continuously showcases his ability to navigate complex, multi-dimensional characters.
As an actor, Harper’s versatility is evident in his ability to tackle roles that span various genres, from sci-fi and drama to horror and comedy. His performances often offer a unique blend of intellectual depth and emotional resonance, which allows audiences to connect with the characters he plays on a profound level.
If you’ve only seen Harper in The Good Place, it’s time to dive into his other works. You might be surprised by just how wide-ranging his talent truly is.
