One of Broadway's most critically acclaimed productions this past year, the revival of Arthur Miller's "Death of a Salesman" has garnered a Tony Award nomination for the actor in the play's iconic role of Willy Loman.

Wendell Pierce says playing the demanding role of a salesman whose life unravels after he loses the job inextricably linked to his identity, reinvigorated him.

"It changed me because before the play I was thinking maybe my best days were behind me. And then this was the greatest challenge I've ever had not only in my career but I think in my life. And to meet the challenge emboldened me. It made me realize that while I may have fear, I still have courage," he said.

Pierce has had a prolific stage, film and television career. For several seasons he played Detective Bunk Moreland on the series, "The Wire."

The 2022 revival featured the Loman cast as a Black family. Pierce believes while the revival held true to the script and lessons of "Death of a Salesman", it was even more impactful.

"And who better to tell the story of the disappointments of the American dream and how it can be turned into an American nightmare than those who have been denied access to it in very traumatic ways," says Pierce. "You know, than an African American experience."

Pierce is nominated for Best Performance By An Actor In A Leading Role In A Play. The Tony Awards will be held on June 11.