Tessa Thompson Calls Chris Hemsworth a ‘Baby With Muscles’

Tessa Thompson shares insights on Chris Hemsworth and her latest film “Hedda” during her BFI London Film Festival talk.

According to reports from the BFI London Film Festival, Thor star Tessa Thompson captivated audiences during a live talk as she reflected on her versatile acting journey — from Marvel blockbusters to independent dramas. The session also highlighted her latest collaboration, Hedda, which premiered at the festival to much anticipation.

Media outlets state that Thompson spoke warmly about her experience working with director Taika Waititi on Thor: Love and Thunder. She described him with playful affection, calling him “a huge infant with a bank account,” and admiring his uninhibited, imaginative approach to filmmaking. Thompson said the creative process often felt “terrifying but joyful,” adding that Waititi’s childlike enthusiasm brought freedom to the set.

The actor also had glowing words for co-star Chris Hemsworth, referring to him as “a baby with muscles.” According to Thompson, Hemsworth’s fearless energy makes him a delight to work with, as “he’ll do anything to get the laugh or to discover something new.” She praised the Thor films as a space that allows actors to embrace pure imagination and playfulness, comparing the experience to “being a kid again.”

Sources confirm that Thompson’s conversation later turned toward her latest project, Hedda, a modern adaptation of Henrik Ibsen’s classic play Hedda Gabler, directed by Nia DaCosta and produced by Thompson’s own company, Viva Maude. She revealed that stepping into the role was both terrifying and thrilling, noting that few women of color have historically portrayed the character — though she emphasized that this was not her motivation.

Thompson expressed gratitude toward DaCosta for reimagining Ibsen’s work in a way that feels fresh and accessible, describing the film as “buoyant, fun, and delicious.” She said she hopes the adaptation will inspire a new generation to rediscover Ibsen’s work in an unexpected, modern way.

As confirmed earlier, Thompson also reflected on her past collaborations, including Creed with director Ryan Coogler and co-star Michael B. Jordan. She recalled how the team’s improvisational spirit and Coogler’s homegrown approach gave the big-budget project an independent energy that shaped the film’s authenticity.

Discussing her acting process, Thompson admitted that watching herself on screen has never been easy, though her experience as a producer has helped her view her performances more objectively. She also highlighted her use of the Meisner technique, stressing that listening and reacting truthfully often matter more than dialogue itself. “Words are overrated,” she said, adding that much of a performance lies in silence and subtlety.

With Hedda continuing its global festival journey, fans can expect to see more of Thompson’s powerful performances that balance courage, creativity, and emotional honesty.

FAQ

Q1: What did Tessa Thompson say about Chris Hemsworth?

A1: Tessa Thompson humorously called Chris Hemsworth “a baby with muscles,” praising his fearless and playful attitude on set.

Q2: What is Tessa Thompson’s new movie “Hedda” about?

A2: “Hedda” is a modern adaptation of Henrik Ibsen’s classic play “Hedda Gabler,” directed by Nia DaCosta and produced by Thompson’s company Viva Maude.

Fans searching for the latest updates on Chris Hemsworth and Tessa Thompson’s upcoming projects can expect more exclusive coverage soon on Next ShowBiz.