Filipino-American actor JB Tadena is taking on two major Hollywood projects, joining HBO Max’s award-winning medical drama The Pitt as well as the upcoming film The Adventures of Cliff Booth, starring alongside Brad Pitt.
JB will join six other actors in The Pitt’s third season as recurring cast, taking on the role of Dr. Reed Thomas.
Set inside Pittsburgh Trauma Medical Center (PTMC), The Pitt follows healthcare workers as they deal with demanding shifts while facing personal struggles, workplace tensions, and the emotional toll that comes with caring for ill patients.
For JB, becoming part of the series is particularly meaningful because he was already a fan of the show.
“I was thrilled,” he told Inquirer.net in an exclusive email interview.
“The Pitt is an incredible show and completely embedded in the pop culture zeitgeist at the present, so of course, it’s an absolute honor to be a small part of it. It’s always fun to receive news that you’re joining something you’re a fan of.”
The Filipino-American actor has been following the series, which has earned major recognition throughout its first two seasons, including accolades from the Actors Awards and the Golden Globe Awards. Its second season also received 25 Emmy nominations, with the awarding coming this September.
JB said one of the things he appreciates most about The Pitt is how naturally it presents life inside a hospital.
“I love its grounded nature and how it’s a show that doesn’t need to hold your hand and explain things,” he said.
“The show allows you to go on a ride that is one of the most realistic depictions of hospital work in media today,” he continued. “And I love how they’ve treated Filipino nurses unlike any other show that has existed.”
The Filipino-American actor will also be joining a series that has already made room for Filipino talent. Its first two seasons featured Filipino actors Isa Briones, Amielynn Abellera, and Kristin Villanueva, making his addition another opportunity for Filipino representation on the acclaimed drama.
JB is the son of two Filipino immigrants who bravely pursued life abroad. For him, sharing the screen with the three actresses who share the same heritage as him is especially meaningful.
“Speaking of! It’s a dream. I’ve been fortunate enough to have been a part of shows that have given careful and deliberate treatment to Filipino and Filipino American culture. This is no different, and all three of those women are stars. I’m fortunate to get a chance to share space with them.”
The actor has already started filming the third season in Los Angeles. He described his experience on set as “incredible,” praising the smooth production as well as the kindness and welcoming attitude of the cast and crew.
Joining JB in the cast are Stephen Chang, Barry Clifton, Chris Diamantopoulos, Lawrence Kao, Brent Sexton, and Hannah Ware.
The third season of The Pitt is scheduled to premiere in January 2027.
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But JB’s latest Hollywood chapter does not end at the hospital.
The actor is also set to appear alongside top Hollywood actor Brad Pitt in The Adventures of Cliff Booth, a big-screen project directed by David Fincher.
JB Tadena (right) on The Adventures of Cliff Booth. Courtesy of Netflix.
Looking back on his experience filming the movie, JB described it as one of the most memorable opportunities of his career.
“The Adventures of Cliff Booth was one of the most humbling and exciting filming experiences of my life,” he maintained. “I can’t wait to speak more about it when the time comes.”
The film is scheduled for an IMAX premiere on November 25 for a two-week engagement before arriving on Netflix on December 23.
Before landing his latest projects, JB appeared in several projects including The Cleaning Lady and Kung Fu.
His journey to Hollywood, however, began far from the entertainment industry. Before pursuing acting, JB worked as a satellite engineer before eventually following his passion for performing.