Danielle Deadwyler Brings Comedic Chops to HBO's 'Rooster'

The Atlanta native known for her dramatic roles is now flexing her funny bone on the Steve Carell-led series.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 7:20pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a luxurious, glittering sequin texture in high-contrast studio lighting, capturing the glamorous and energetic mood of the Rooster TV series.The vibrant energy and comedic spirit of HBO's Rooster series is embodied in this abstract close-up of a dazzling sequin texture.Atlanta Today

Atlanta actress Danielle Deadwyler, acclaimed for her powerful dramatic performances in films like 'Till' and 'The Piano Lesson', is now showcasing her comedic talents on the new HBO series 'Rooster'. Deadwyler plays Dylan, an English professor and prospective dean who helps the show's lead character, author Greg Russo (Steve Carell), navigate the modern challenges of academia. The actress discusses how she approached the lighter, more humorous role and shares her excitement about working on the upcoming 'X-Files' reboot directed by Ryan Coogler.

Why it matters

Deadwyler's turn in 'Rooster' marks a departure from the heavy, dramatic parts she's become known for, allowing her to demonstrate her versatility as an actress. The series also provides a satirical look at the dynamics of modern college campuses, tackling issues of gender, sexuality, and institutional leadership.

The details

In 'Rooster', Deadwyler's character Dylan is a poet, writer, and teacher who helps guide the fish-out-of-water author Greg Russo (played by Steve Carell) as he navigates the liberal arts college Ludlow. Unlike Deadwyler's previous dramatic roles, Dylan is flawed and comedic, providing a counterpoint to the actress's more maternal, serious on-screen personas. Deadwyler says she was drawn to the opportunity to explore different 'modalities of being' as a woman and Black woman, beyond the stereotypical tropes.

  • Rooster was just renewed for a second season on HBO.
  • New episodes of Rooster drop every Sunday on HBO/HBO Max until May 10.

The players

Danielle Deadwyler

An Atlanta-based actress known for her powerful dramatic roles in films like 'Till' and 'The Piano Lesson', who is now showcasing her comedic talents on the HBO series 'Rooster'.

Steve Carell

The lead actor of 'Rooster', playing author Greg Russo who ends up teaching at the liberal arts college Ludlow.

Bill Lawrence

The co-creator of 'Rooster' along with Matt Tarses.

Matt Tarses

The co-creator of 'Rooster' along with Bill Lawrence.

Ryan Coogler

The Oscar-winning writer and director who is helming the upcoming 'X-Files' reboot, which Deadwyler is set to star in.

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What they’re saying

“Dylan is not in a dramatic dynamic at all [laughs] and I was like, Let me set myself up for some healing. As a multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary artist, I want that same experience as an actor, to be able to flow through all kinds of genres.”

— Danielle Deadwyler, Actress

“There were hints of race. I don't know if that came out in the edits as much, but definitely in regards to gender. We have a generational divide that's happening, and they're reckoning with it. Particularly Dylan. She's reckoning with What does it mean to be the kind of leader that you want to be?”

— Danielle Deadwyler, Actress

What’s next

Rooster has been renewed for a second season on HBO, so fans can look forward to more of Deadwyler's comedic performance as Professor Dylan in the upcoming episodes.

The takeaway

Danielle Deadwyler's turn in the HBO comedy 'Rooster' showcases her impressive range as an actress, allowing her to flex her comedic chops after earning acclaim for her dramatic work. The series also provides a timely, satirical look at the modern challenges facing academia and institutions of higher learning.