Dana Gourrier is embracing the role of a lifetime as she portrays Odessa Clay, mother of the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali, in the new series *The Greatest*. In a recent conversation with PEOPLE, the 47-year-old actress revealed that becoming a mother later in life significantly influenced her performance, allowing her to forge a deep emotional connection with her character.
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Gourrier welcomed her son, Brixton, when she was 41 years old, a decision that reshaped her perspective on motherhood and, consequently, her approach to acting. “Being a mum, especially a new mum, is one of the hardest things,” she reflected. “Having Brixton changed every aspect of my life. It was no longer just about making rent; I had to ensure this child survives.” This shift in priorities illuminated the sacrifices inherent in motherhood, a theme central to her portrayal of Odessa.
The emotional depth required for the role of Odessa, a woman who nurtured one of the greatest athletes in history, came naturally to Gourrier as she drew from her own experiences. “I think this new landscape of education in my body allowed for an easier emotional connection,” she noted, highlighting how her profound understanding of motherhood enriched her portrayal.
Gourrier found a special bond with her on-screen son, Jaalen Best, who brings Ali to life in the series. Their connection was immediate and powerful. “It was not hard to look at Jaalen and feel overwhelming emotions,” she said fondly. “His name, Best, is fitting; he truly is the best, and I adore him.” Their time in Toronto during filming allowed their relationship to flourish, and Gourrier described the connection they built as “inexplicable and incredibly special.”
Her bond extended beyond Best to her other co-star Kai Parham, who plays one of Odessa’s sons. The camaraderie among the trio transformed their on-set interactions into meaningful relationships off-screen. Gourrier’s own son has formed his own connection with his mother’s co-stars, affectionately calling them “brothers.” “It’s adorable,” she shared, noting that Brixton calls Kai “Captain Kai,” revealing the affectionate family dynamic they have established.
The closeness of the cast led to some spirited celebrations behind the scenes. Gourrier fondly recalled throwing a birthday party for Best and making sure Parham’s special day was equally memorable, despite filming commitments. “You can’t do for one child and not the other,” she chuckled, sharing how she surprised Kai with a PlayStation, while Best gifted him matching controllers — illustrating the family atmosphere they cultivated.
Gourrier’s portrayal of Odessa is deeply personal. She felt an immediate connection to her character upon reading the script, motivated by a desire to honour Odessa’s narrative and provide her with a voice. “When I met Odessa, it was like I already knew her,” she remarked. “I felt this overwhelming urgency to get it right.”
Her identity as a Black woman plays a crucial role in this connection. Gourrier expressed how she sees aspects of herself reflected in Odessa, particularly regarding their shared experiences in navigating a society that often overlooks them. “I have frequently felt unseen, especially as a curvy Black woman,” she explained. “Odessa faced even harsher realities in the ’60s. This role felt incredibly significant to me.”
The emotional honesty that Gourrier brings to her portrayal is further enhanced by the genuine relationships she built with her co-stars. This authenticity is likely to resonate with viewers, allowing them to see the true spirit of Odessa Clay come to life on screen. *The Greatest* is now available on Prime Video, showcasing the compelling story of Muhammad Ali through the eyes of the woman who shaped his extraordinary journey.
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