While Will Smith takes center stage in his Oscar-winning portrayal of King Richard, the film features a remarkable ensemble cast that collectively brings this true sports narrative to life on the big screen. Venus and Serena Williams are household names in the realm of sports, yet King Richard provides a unique perspective by focusing predominantly on their father, Richard Williams, a dedicated tennis coach striving to showcase his daughters’ extraordinary talents to the world. His character is complex and compelling, but the film’s strength lies in its entire cast’s contributions, which enhance the storytelling and emotional depth.

Directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green and penned by Zach Baylin, King Richard delves into the behind-the-scenes dynamics of Venus and Serena’s upbringing under the watchful eye of their father. This film showcases a diverse cast of seasoned actors alongside emerging talents, allowing them to display their skills to a broader audience. Based on real-life experiences, we will explore the actors’ backgrounds, their roles in the film, and how they relate to the real-life figures they portray, enriching the narrative with authenticity and depth.

Discover Will Smith’s Powerful Performance

Unveiling the Role of Richard Williams

Character: Richard Williams is the father of Serena and Venus Williams, who dedicated years to nurturing his daughters while striving to get them noticed by tennis coaches capable of guiding them to professional success. Throughout the film, Williams is depicted as someone who pushes his daughters to their limits while simultaneously ensuring they experience a normal childhood, striking a balance between ambition and everyday life. His dynamic personality and unyielding determination to support his daughters make him a compelling figure in the media spotlight, just as much as his daughters.

Actor: Will Smith’s portrayal of Richard Williams in King Richard earned him his first Oscar, showcasing his incredible range and depth. Smith launched his career with a successful sitcom, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and swiftly transitioned into a Hollywood powerhouse, starring in blockbuster hits like Bad Boys, Independence Day, and Men in Black. His dramatic performances in films such as Ali and The Pursuit of Happyness have garnered significant acclaim, solidifying his status as one of the industry’s leading talents.

Aunjanue Ellis: Bringing Oracene “Brandy” Price to Life

Exploring the Role of Oracene “Brandy” Price

Character: Oracene “Brandy” Price, a nurse and the wife of Richard Williams, is the supportive yet concerned mother of Venus and Serena Williams. While she stands firmly behind her husband’s ambitions for their daughters, she expresses concern regarding the intensity of his coaching methods and the neglect of their other children. The film subtly hints at the strains on their marriage, suggesting that they eventually divorced in 2002, providing an intimate look at the challenges they faced as a family.

Actor: Aunjanue Ellis received her first Oscar nomination for her role as Brandy in King Richard. Known for her powerful performances in numerous films and television series, Ellis has consistently impressed audiences. Her credits include standout roles in Lovecraft Country, When They See Us, Quantico, Ray, The Help, and NCIS: Los Angeles. Recently, she garnered attention as Carolyn Wilder in the critically acclaimed series Justified: City Primeval.

Saniyya Sidney: The Rising Star as Venus Williams

Capturing the Essence of Venus Williams

Character: Venus Williams is portrayed as a world-class professional tennis player, having achieved the title of former World No. 1 in both singles and doubles. In King Richard, we witness her journey as a teenager on the cusp of becoming a professional athlete. The film illustrates her exceptional talent and ambition while highlighting her status as an outsider in the competitive sports arena, stemming from her less privileged background compared to other athletes. While her father envisions a gradual approach to her career, Venus is eager to prove her abilities on the national stage.

Actor: Saniyya Sidney portrays Venus Williams and is recognized for her impressive performances in notable projects such as Fences, Roots, and Hidden Figures. Additionally, she has made memorable appearances in American Horror Story and the short-lived series The Passage. Recently, she starred alongside Viola Davis in the acclaimed series The First Lady, where she played Sasha Obama, further showcasing her versatility and talent as a young actress.

Demi Singleton: The Talented Actress as Serena Williams

Embodying the Legacy of Serena Williams

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Character: Serena Williams is widely recognized as the greatest female tennis player in history, with over 20 Grand Slam titles to her name, a record surpassed by none. In King Richard, Serena is depicted as a teenager navigating her early career. While she does not compete at the same level as her sister in the film, her self-doubt surfaces at times. However, her father, Richard, is adamant in his belief that Serena will dominate the sport in the future, highlighting the unwavering support she receives from her family.

Actor: Demi Singleton plays the role of Serena Williams in King Richard. She is best known for her performance as Margaret Johnson in the crime drama series Godfather of Harlem. Additionally, she has appeared in the Western series Lawmen: Bass Reeves, portraying Sally Reeves, and recently starred in the horror film The Deliverance, alongside Glenn Close and her King Richard co-star Aunjanue Ellis.

Jon Bernthal: The Coach Behind the Williams Sisters

Rick Macci’s Influence as a Tennis Coach

Character: Rick Macci is depicted as a highly-respected professional tennis coach who founded the Rick Macci International Tennis Academy in Florida, where Venus and Serena Williams train. Within the film, Macci is portrayed as a passionate mentor who quickly recognizes the extraordinary talent of the young Williams sisters. The narrative also captures the humorous dynamics between Macci and Richard, showcasing the challenges they navigate as they work together to prepare Venus and Serena for the world of professional tennis.

Actor: Jon Bernthal brings life to the character of Rick Macci and is widely recognized for his breakout role as Shane in The Walking Dead. He has since gained fame for his portrayal of The Punisher in Marvel’s Daredevil and The Punisher. Beyond superhero roles, Bernthal’s extensive filmography includes a range of genres, featuring notable performances in The Wolf of Wall Street, Baby Driver, and critically acclaimed series like The Bear and We Own This City.

Meet the Supporting Cast of King Richard

Tony Goldwyn As Paul Cohen – Paul Cohen is a renowned tennis coach who has trained some of the biggest names in the sport, including John McEnroe. He serves as Venus Williams’ first coach in the film. Tony Goldwyn, known for his roles in Scandal, Lovecraft Country, Ghost, and The Mechanic, brings depth to the character. He also lent his voice to Disney’s animated classic Tarzan.

Mikayla LaShae Bartholomew as Tunde Price – Tunde Price is the eldest half-sister of Serena and Venus Williams, being the daughter of Brandy from a previous marriage. Mikayla has showcased her talent in the short film Pure and had guest appearances in the TV series The Code.

Daniele Lawson as Isha Price – Isha Price is another sister of Venus and Serena who later pursues a career as a lawyer. Daniele Lawson has made guest appearances in popular television shows, including Young Sheldon, Mixed-ish, Scandal, and 9-1-1.

Layla Crawford as Lyndrea Price – Lyndrea is also a sister of Venus and Serena, the daughter of Oracene and stepdaughter of Richard Williams. Layla has appeared in the TV series The First Family and had guest roles in 9-1-1, The Mindy Project, NCIS: Los Angeles, True Blood, and Criminal Minds.

Dylan McDermott as Will Hodges – Will Hodges is a sports agent featured in King Richard. Dylan McDermott is recognized for his roles in The Perks of Being a Wallflower, The Practice, Olympus Has Fallen, American Horror Story, and Ryan Murphy’s Hollywood.

Marcela Zacarias as Arantxa Sanchez Vicario – Arantxa Sanchez Vicario, a former World No. 1 tennis player, competes against Venus Williams in the film and is portrayed by Marcela Zacarias, a real-life tennis star. This film marks her debut in acting.

Kevin Dunn as Vic Braden – Kevin Dunn takes on the role of the legendary tennis coach Vic Braden in King Richard. Dunn’s previous work includes appearances in Warriors, Transformers, Unstoppable, True Detective, Samantha Who?, and the TV series Veep.

Craig Tate as Bells – Bells is a character who flirts with Richard’s daughters and often belittles Richard in various scenes. Craig Tate is known for his performances in Greyhound, 12 Years a Slave, Snowfall, and Reprisal</em