Wendell Pierce On The Timeless Themes Of Inequality In "Death of a Salesman"

[@disappearintothesea]

Love it when Stephen recognizes a moment and just lets his guests speak. Bravo!

[@urssya951]

Hmm,that part!👌🏽👍🏽👏🏾✌🏾

[@jamesneeson9825]

CORRECT a million times my friend.

[@RonandHerm]

Exactly I was just saying that. The guy's voice just draws you in as well.

[@RonandHerm]

What a great interview. Wendell's voice is so soothing and smooth. I could listen to his voice read me a book or something. I love when Stephen knows when to interject and when to just listen to someone. Great skill.

[@themeparkpovs9070]

Fallon would have let it go for 30 seconds then make a joke

[@MdW4177]

What a voice this man has…it’s like he was born for the stage.

[@hoozle]

I could listen to him speak about anything for hours, such a thoughtful man. Thanks, Late Show, for introducing him to me

[@davidlane256]

His voice is like a really good alto sax.

[@masterofallgoons]

He should read audiobooks. All of them

[@AaronTanyhill]

Aw man you gotta check out the wire

[@beaubolieu]

I’m jealous! You get to see him in The Wire and Treme and other great shows for the first time! Go watch!

[@davidbryden7904]

Then you will love The Wire!🍻✌️🌏☮️

[@JereneDunn]

Wendall Pierce was the most inspiring guest I have seen EVER. Thanks for that!

[@diligentmindz]

Wendell Pierce is a national treasure. His talent makes the message so accessible. Truly a brilliant actor and man of authentic integrity.

[@talltomboynyc]

I saw Death Of A Salesman the night this was taped. I am blown away that he was on this show about an hour before curtain. He is anointed to play Willy Loman. If you are able, do all you can to go see him in this play and let the tragedy amplify your values after you leave.

[@fattysl26]

I saw him in this when it was in London a few years ago, totally blew me away.

[@ammaleslie509]

"Let the tragedy amplify your values" what a wonderful way of putting it

[@ammaleslie509]

@@fattysl26 i read that some of the actors from the London cast are in this production too

[@drhicks11]

✔️ 👍🏾 DONE! It was FABULOUS ‼️💯

[@calisongbird]

The paradox of Death of a Salesman warning about the dangers of capitalism is that it’s appearing on Broadway, which is very much a business. New York theatre on that level is a well-oiled capitalist machine. This actor and his agent, manager, accountant, etc are getting paid from his work - as are all the other cast, crew, theatre personnel, etc. Colbert’s show (and all the major talk shows) exist due to capitalism - it’s huge business. KZbin is also a product of capitalism. We are all able to view this video (and many are able to attend the Broadway play) because of capitalism. Art and commerce have always intersected.

[@eszterk8394]

wendell pierce is an absolute treasure! ❤

[@rebeccabaker2055]

I was at opening night when his father was in the audience and Wendell Pierce gave his father a silver timepiece that Willie Loman had in the play. It was incredibly moving, as was the play. Everyone should see it

[@fugguhber4699]

Wendell Pierce: What a wonderful explanation of the story of "Death of a Salesman". Then, he spoke of his own father, and how that influence - of love and support - was so important for him. I really enjoyed this segment. ( Even though I never watched the Wire ) I can see Wendell doing "King Lear",,,,,,,, he would be fantastic.

[@Heterogeneity]

Yesssss!

[@mariekastler5391]

Wendell Pierce is a Fabulous HUMAN as well as a great actor. He has used his forum to rebuild underserved communities in New Orleans and ALWAYS keeps Justice and Equity front of mind. Ben Franklin, Class of '81 is SO PROUD of YOU!!!

[@rkms5606]

👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿

[@Tonehenge]

Colbert understands this moment, and leaves Pierce alone to lay out his thesis. Just marvellous.

[@at0micbunnygirl]

I was not expecting it, but Wendell Pierce made me cry hearing that story of his 97-year-old father being able to see him on stage after everything that he's been through and witnessed. And his story about the play was so eloquent. What an amazing person and actor! ❤👏👏👏

[@user-ur4nl6dq2x]

I can't believe he's never been on Late Night, he's a legend!

[@NicoleAZ145]

His voice is so soothing. How wonderful that his dad got to see him perform.

[@mercyjoseph4806]

I love that Stephen gave him space to speak without interrupting him, this is beautiful also Lewis and the band damn!!!

[@marmac7619]

I was planning to watch something else after the wonderful Lithgow left, but something kept me from changing the channel until he was introduced. It was kismet or something, but i am SO GLAD i stuck around - fantastic interview!!

[@FtdsECh0]

I first saw him in Suits playing Robert Zane. I wasn’t aware how awesome the actor was!

[@dondevice8182]

Me too! Really underrated show!

[@dondevice8182]

What a voice! What intelligent, mellifluous eloquence! Cat speaks,in paragraphs in his first time on late night tv- I didn’t open my mouth my first time!

[@sanderdegroot6628]

My words, coming from your mouth lol😉! Didn't know mr. Pierce yet (said this ignorant Dutch guy) but from now on you can wake me up at any time, just to listen to his voice. Wauw!

[@dondevice8182]

@@sanderdegroot6628 I know! I want him to read me stories so I can go to sleep at night! “Tell me the one again about the cat in the hat Mr. Pierce tell me again about the salesman who died..? Mmmmmmn….night night!

[@sanderdegroot6628]

@@dondevice8182 Haha, I would looove to go to bed every night, if only to wake up to continue listening again, and again, and again.....🥳😀!

[@jeswilde6188]

What a beautiful well spoken Gentleman of a man, I want Stephen and him to start a podcast! I would love to hear him talk about just about anything, such a thoughtful intelligent speaker

[@dondevice8182]

Wow! May he live as long as his old man! Love this guy!

[@pdgg7025]

Stephen you need to bring Wendell back more often!!! The MAN is DEEP! Thank You!

[@estrathmeyer]

Wendell Pierce is a legend!! So proud to see him play such an iconic character on Broadway. It's truly a shame that he hasn't been on the show before, especially since he and Jon are both from the New Orleans area.

[@DeeSFee]

A wonderful interview with an amazing actor. I've watched Wendell through the years. It made me feel very sad that this is his first time on a late night show.

[@cherylannebarillartist7453]

Wow!!!!!!!! What an amazing speaker!!! The content of what he speaks here is of pure truth.

[@genjamescmcconville4240]

Hello, I'm General James Charles McConville from. Quincy, Massachusetts, United States, I'm presently in Ukraine helping with Heavy war machines, weapons, Are you from the states 🇺🇸?.?

[@calisongbird]

@@genjamescmcconville4240 no, you’re not.

[@debwright3190]

😮Wendell Pierce a great actor and spokesmen for his people and so many others. Bravo!👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👊🏾👍🏽🫵🏽

[@mungodegrijalva822]

What a profound, thoughtful, exemplary man. Yes, he's an accomplished performance artist, but also a deep thinker & an advocate for us to practice our humanity. He reminds us we are ALL connected to each other & need to show our kindness, compassion & generosity to our fellow human beings -- we are our "brothers (& sisters) keepers".

[@brianhanify4281]

I've never posted a comment on a KZbin video before. But this interview was amazing. Listened to it three times and took something out each time. And I liked how Stephen seemed transfixed.

[@sdaven2360]

The best late night interview I've ever seen. Stephen asked two questions and allowed Wendell to teach us. Bravo to both of these gentlemen.

[@chanratanakong6309]

I read the play in high school. It went straight over my head. After this interview I want to read/watch the play again

[@darryldavies8171]

I was fortunate to see this incredible play when it was performed at the New Vic theatre in London. Wendell Pierce is truly awesome ( as was the entire cast) and I would recommend to anyone visiting NYC to go along and see it. Not often you see Mr Colbert lost for words as he was in this interview.

[@noisychamps]

I saw it after it had transferred from the Young Vic theatre to the Piccadilly Theatre in London in November 2019. It was Wendell's West End debut and he was wonderful playing Willy Loman. It was great to see this production, so I urge anyone able to see it, to do so while you can.

[@ToniHunterOne]

Amazing to your father, Senior Pierce, to be there for your son. Much love. And to you Mr. Wendell Pierce to be so fortunate to be able to share your life with your father. Grace.

[@freda2758]

Some people were just born to speak. His voice carries such presence.

[@edezagon]

One of the most eloquent people he's had in a long time. Wish I were in NY to go see this play. And oh, that voice!

[@Anna-kx6dl]

People like Mr. Pierce remind us that there is hope for our world and country.....if we would just listen and think.

[@deirdredraginoff3760]

Love! Love! Love Wendell Pierce!!! His voice, skill, and talent amaze me.

[@thewatchmanstudios6257]

The sonorous tones from that man. Good god what music he made

[@MrJimmy1953]

Brilliant man. Brilliant actor.

[@eleanakouneliyoga]

What an incredible actor / person Wendell Pierce is. I’ve listened to several of of his radio interviews in the past, such a great human being and creator. His words carefully crafted to convey such beautiful personal & universal truths.

[@thankyouagainT]

He should be flooded with Emmys, Tony's, Oscars, NAACP, BET, and he 'cause he can pitch a tune, Grammy awards.. He actually needs more Flowers for the awesome work he has done. ❤️👍🏾🙏🏾🙌🏽🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@tiffanyanderson9437]

Can’t believe this is Wendell’s first late-night appearance. He is a master of his craft & we all need to see him much more frequently. I hear he’s a genuinely nice guy, too.

[@who-ny5oe]

You can also bel hear that is a good thing you are awake go fuck yourself you son is not the best in your life but the rest is a example to the moon and ferb to the 66inches and the boys are so good to be in the moon and I will whatever 6666inches I do to them you are how I am in this world FTT and the lord hamlet and the lord God again you for the lord of why did I say that is what you are a ath of godess and the worst trade 6AM of a fucking bitch and the lord is the only thing to be 9PM for the lord of Israel in a way that you are a God this is a 666inches man can you have a unrealistic influence in your way and the worst thing to say is the 666inches and the lord is not the same God again

[@pawervivi]

I was in shock too when he said it was his first time!

[@MegasSalavatis]

What a magnificent voice!

[@ClaudetteSyrbram]

This man is an awesome speaker as well as a brilliant man. Thank you for just being who you are. Love ❤️ ❤❤❤

[@renatacantore3684]

Thank you for reminding us why DEATH OF A SALESMAN is an Essential presentation. I can’t believe that The Great Wendell Pierce has never been invited to be on a late night show. Well done Stephen Colbert ♥️♥️🏆🏆👏🏽👏🏽🌹🔥🌹🔥💐💐💐😎😎 What an Exquisite voice & telling everyone about how & why the play is so crucial for everyone to see. He furthered His story by telling us about His own Father who basically lived the story but unlike the main character He actually did what “ Willie Loman” failed to understand- He stayed with his family and lived & Is Still living a life filled with Love. Going so far as to attend & witness His Beloved Son Lead an All Black Cast in this treasured play On Broadway 🎭 Not much could be more touching ♥️♥️♥️🏆🏆🏆👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽💐💐💐💐🔥🔥🔥🔥🌹🌹

[@calisongbird]

The paradox of Death of a Salesman warning about the dangers of capitalism is that it’s appearing on Broadway, which is very much a business. New York theatre on that level is a well-oiled capitalist machine. This actor and his agent, manager, accountant, etc are getting paid from his work - as are all the other cast, crew, theatre personnel, etc. Colbert’s show (and all the major talk shows) exist due to capitalism - it’s huge business. KZbin is also a product of capitalism. We are all able to view this video (and many are able to attend the Broadway play) because of capitalism. Art and commerce have always intersected.

[@vanessawhitneypro]

I could listen to Wendell Pierce speak for hours and hours... What a wonderful actor with a wonderful voice...

[@genjamescmcconville4240]

Hello, I'm General James Charles McConville from. Quincy, Massachusetts, United States, I'm presently in Ukraine helping with Heavy war machines, weapons, Are you from the states 🇺🇸?.?

[@kevinbwillson4161]

Thank you for sharing your love wisdom and experience. Over here in Port Angeles we miss a lot

[@SamSam-yb3ls]

It's about damn time! This amazing actor has done so much in the theatre in New York and London, in TV and film, but I've never seen him get the accolades a man of his calibre should. Glad that the Late Show was able to introduce this incredible dude to a wider audience x

[@parrent666]

My favorite scene in The Wire is when all they say is the f word in all various ways. But this interview showed me just how eloquent and insightful the man who played Bunk truly is. I love you Wendell Pierce and congrats on the stage role you were made for!

[@rjwhite2305]

The best interview in a long time. Usually Stephen brings this kind of deep insightful commentary. Thank you Mr. Pierce.

[@thatomash7689]

I absolutely love Wendell Pierce, so down to earth

[@Rheinmeister09]

Been a fan since The Wire. He has such great screen presence whatever he does and can't wait to see him on Broadway in a couple of weeks time.

[@cz2165]

That was one of the most eloquent descriptions of a piece of art ever said.

[@Heterogeneity]

Please have Mr Pierce back for a longer interview. He is wonderful.

[@danh.owdoyoudo]

Great great actor, and so invested in this newest role of his considerable career

[@AlbanianSunN]

This might be the only late night show where Pierce could talk about it without being interrupted for stupid jokes. Thank you Stephen for not putting yourself first. Great guest, great message

[@dsp8884]

Agreed

[@tishw4576]

I love this guy!!! Such a compelling actor and person.

[@zoecunningham3019]

Brilliantly articulated

[@JustJanitor]

Oh my God wow. I am greatly moved by this. This has cleared some things up for me thank you

[@calisongbird]

The paradox of Death of a Salesman warning about the dangers of capitalism is that it’s appearing on Broadway, which is very much a business. New York theatre on that level is a well-oiled capitalist machine. This actor and his agent, manager, accountant, etc are getting paid from his work - as are all the other cast, crew, theatre personnel, etc. Colbert’s show (and all the major talk shows) exist due to capitalism - it’s huge business. KZbin is also a product of capitalism. We are all able to view this video (and many are able to attend the Broadway play) because of capitalism. Art and commerce have always intersected.

[@M.Hiro79]

First of all I do love Wendell and I never thought I could love him more but here we are..

[@KieranFuller17]

Wow. I have never heard of this man and certainly never heard him speak, but I am blown away. I have been sitting at work today putting on videos to listen to as I work and podcasts as background company. But I stopped to properly watch this man speak and full credit to Stephen for stepping back and leaving him to it - letting him speak his mind, his truth and make a real impact on the audience in the studio and watching at home. What a fantastic guest to have on the show.

[@meganbreen1380]

incredible actor, thinker and speaker. Thanks for having him on, Stephen, and loved the question about tragedy!

[@kingjunior7819]

7:50 that’s power. The love of a father. Wow yeah that’s powerful stuff man.

[@railbuilderdhd]

Wow Wendall is an amazing man and love how he words what he has to say. Well done letting him speak!

[@stevenickerson829]

Thank you, WP. You cleared the air, a universal promise.

[@dominicherrera4610]

Wow he deserves a standing ovation!!!!!

[@BestFitSquareChannel]

Beautiful… profound, sincere… universal 🫶🏼

[@garryferrington811]

This person has an extremely rich voice. He's also extremely intelligent.

[@lisap8411]

I saw this when it was on the West End in London. It was incredible. If you can see it, go!

[@mirkokaupat9201]

What an impressive man! On a slightly lighter note: I remember him as Meghan Markle's lawyer father Robert Zane on "Suits". Great role!

[@wendydarling5790]

I have several shows on my list, and wasn't necessarily planning to see this. But he may have convinced me. This was very effective promotion!

[@villanessa]

So beautiful Wendell Pierce, made me emotional

[@laalaa99stl]

I have a feeling this version of Death of a Salesman is going to be... well liked.

[@seansmith3058]

Attention must be paid.

[@ammaleslie509]

It is getting great reviews

[@davidbryden7904]

Wendell is one of my favorite actors, and "Death..." is one of my favorite plays!

[@calisongbird]

The paradox of Death of a Salesman warning about the dangers of capitalism is that it’s appearing on Broadway, which is very much a business. New York theatre on that level is a well-oiled capitalist machine. This actor and his agent, manager, accountant, etc are getting paid from his work - as are all the other cast, crew, theatre personnel, etc. Colbert’s show (and all the major talk shows) exist due to capitalism - it’s huge business. KZbin is also a product of capitalism. We are all able to view this video (and many are able to attend the Broadway play) because of capitalism. Art and commerce have always intersected.

[@davidbryden7904]

@@calisongbird no arguments! Capitalism has f***ed a lot $H!T. I still appreciate the craft.🤷‍♂️✌️💚&🌲s!🌏☮️

[@Dismal-future]

Jesus Christ did this man come in with a speech ready or is he just this well-spoken... I mean this is almost like Christopher Hitchens stuff. I can see why he was the man for the job . he perfectly encapsulates it ...the whole of American Experience for 80% of us.

[@justinb222]

what an epic dude ! love that guy

[@apok1980]

He’s one of the best actors of his generation. Very powerful.

[@melissalugo7553]

I can watch this interview on a loop. Outstanding!!!

[@dagordon1041]

So glad to see Wendell Pierce on The Late Show. I enjoyed his acting and great voice in the series Chicago P.D. and was glad to see him again in Jack Ryan.

[@TriniBelle111]

His interview DEF should have been longer 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@leedowdy5780]

The insights and Integrity that that man brings to humanity should be an inspiration to all of us. I knew I liked him when I first saw him on The Wire

[@Martinbeef]

A very moving interview, with a lesson for us all.

[@calisongbird]

The paradox of Death of a Salesman warning about the dangers of capitalism is that it’s appearing on Broadway, which is very much a business. New York theatre on that level is a well-oiled capitalist machine. This actor and his agent, manager, accountant, etc are getting paid from his work - as are all the other cast, crew, theatre personnel, etc. Colbert’s show (and all the major talk shows) exist due to capitalism - it’s huge business. KZbin is also a product of capitalism. We are all able to view this video (and many are able to attend the Broadway play) because of capitalism. Art and commerce have always intersected.

[@emu_warrior]

Sheeeeiiiittttttt I could listen to him talk all day. Pure class and wisdom.

[@SHAHNABI]

Power of self knowledge & love of life is beautifully authenticated by our good sir...Mr.Wendall Pierce.

[@kingjunior7819]

My all time favorite American play. Good for the new cast, would’ve been great to see. Tape it and sell the blu ray!

[@ammaleslie509]

That's not how Broadway usually works

[@calisongbird]

The paradox of Death of a Salesman warning about the dangers of capitalism is that it’s appearing on Broadway, which is very much a business. New York theatre on that level is a well-oiled capitalist machine. This actor and his agent, manager, accountant, etc are getting paid from his work - as are all the other cast, crew, theatre personnel, etc. Colbert’s show (and all the major talk shows) exist due to capitalism - it’s huge business. KZbin is also a product of capitalism. We are all able to view this video (and many are able to attend the Broadway play) because of capitalism. Art and commerce have always intersected.

[@edc8657]

I could listen to his voice forever

[@dynamicpisces]

Can’t believe this is his first time on a late night show! He’s a great actor and clearly underrated! Hope his future brings him ascension, recognition and appreciation!🥰

[@genjamescmcconville4240]

Hello, I'm General James Charles McConville from. Quincy, Massachusetts, United States, I'm presently in Ukraine helping with Heavy war machines, weapons, Are you from the states 🇺🇸?.?

[@Boognish69]

Wow! What an impressive man! Always loved Bunk in The Wire but I'd never heard him in person.

[@astrologerdawn1200]

The sign of a great interviewer, letting the guest just talk. Wendell Pierce is a brilliant orator and actor.

[@jbtpa895]

Such a good actor. Shocked that he's never been on a light night show before! Thanks SC for letting him talk!

[@j_a_n_i_c.]

Beautiful!!!

[@kwstakhs3]

Have loved everything I have ever seen him in. Such eloquence underlined with passion when he speaks. You can tell his love of theatre and the craft straight away.

[@greenpenncil]

Wendell Pierce has a very calming spirit. Amazing actor and orator. For me, he is up there with James Earl Jones.

[@bluehazejazz]

Since y’all love wendel’s voice, listen to “The Even Fonky Low Down” with the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra. It’s incredible.

[@makiburgess5733]

A great actor and an excellent analyst of the play’s themes. He is a treasure.

[@calisongbird]

The paradox of Death of a Salesman warning about the dangers of capitalism is that it’s appearing on Broadway, which is very much a business. New York theatre on that level is a well-oiled capitalist machine. This actor and his agent, manager, accountant, etc are getting paid from his work - as are all the other cast, crew, theatre personnel, etc. Colbert’s show (and all the major talk shows) exist due to capitalism - it’s huge business. KZbin is also a product of capitalism. We are all able to view this video (and many are able to attend the Broadway play) because of capitalism. Art and commerce have always intersected.

[@makiburgess5733]

@@calisongbird your point is well made, but if you know the play and Miller’s oeuvre, you will know that it isn’t a total rejection of capitalism so much as an expression of the need to place things like financial success and public reputation in the right place, as Pierce explains, that is secondary to personal relationships, specifically with family. Miller’s plays originated in the commercial theatre, even though one of the companies he worked with, The Group Theatre, was committed to social struggle and support for the working class. Miller was a very successful writer, selling hundreds of thousands of copies of his plays and novels and deriving huge pay days from productions of his plays and screenplays.

[@silverfilmsofficial]

What a voice, sounds like its made of gold

[@FrazTHG]

Long overdue love to this outstanding actor. Stephen mentioned some of his famous roles but let's not forget him in the cult classic Hackers. That was the first time I've seen his work and the movie is absolute classic

[@bgray17]

I saw Wendell Pierce and Sharon D Clarke on opening night in London, they blew me away, astonishing performances across the board, we gave a very long standing ovation. When Wendell Pierce talks you listen 🙌🏽

[@Sweetyhide]

wendell pierce is an absolute treasure! ❤ He was great in the Wire and he fit the part in Treme like no other!

[@rayvincente]

Wendell could be a one man show! I could listen to him for hours! Reminds me of my Dad!

[@Shasha-yg1mm]

I've seen this man in many a movie and TV shows. Always a character actor and now a lead in this play. Don't know the man, yet extremely proud of what he's accomplished.

[@TheFionaS]

What an interesting and intelligent man!