When William Jackson Harper relocated to Los Angeles nearly a decade ago to star in NBC’s comedy series “The Good Place,” he initially felt uncertain about fitting into the city’s culture. Harper, known for his Emmy-nominated role as the indecisive philosophy professor Chidi Anagonye, described Los Angeles as a place where many seemed secure and settled in their identities, in contrast to his background in theater and his previous residence in New York.

Despite his initial reservations, Harper embraced the city’s expansive environment and natural landscapes, fostering deeper connections with longtime friends. He now divides his time between Los Angeles and New York, sharing his life with his wife, actor Ali Ahn.

Currently, Harper stars in the MGM+ series “American Hostage,” a dramatized retelling of the 1977 Indianapolis hostage crisis involving Tony Kiritsis. Kiritsis, who held a mortgage broker hostage in an extraordinary 63-hour standoff, demanded live radio interviews with reporter Fred Heckman, portrayed by Jon Hamm in the series. Harper plays Ben Hairston, a reporter and mentee to Heckman, who assists during the crisis. Harper expressed enthusiasm for the show’s 1970s setting and the opportunity it gave him to adopt a period look, including donning a mustache.

Harper shared details of his ideal Sunday routine in Los Angeles, illustrating a day that balances physical activity, socializing, relaxation, and cultural enjoyment. His mornings begin early with a vigorous workout at Training Mate, a local fitness studio he frequents for its encouraging instructors and challenging classes. Following exercise, he often hikes in Griffith Park, a favorite spot for experiencing nature without committing to overly demanding trails.

Late mornings are reserved for breakfast meetings with friends at casual eateries such as Fred 62 on Vermont Avenue or the popular All Time, noted for its consistently busy atmosphere. Harper appreciates these moments for their relaxed social engagement and familiarity, highlighting that staff often remember his regular order despite infrequent visits.

Afternoons typically include rest in the form of a nap, a necessary recharge ahead of his preferred shopping excursions to vintage and workwear stores like Golden Age and General Quarters, where he enjoys seeking out distinctive clothing pieces, especially French tour jackets.

Evenings begin with a visit to Los Feliz 3, an old-fashioned movie theater that reminds Harper of his childhood cinematic experiences. Dining options often lean toward pescatarian choices, as both Harper and Ahn follow that diet, favoring restaurants such as Eagle Rock’s Little Beast and the Mediterranean-inspired Bavel, where the pair enjoy vegetable-forward dishes and seafood.

The day concludes quietly with a walk for their dog, Chico, followed by winding down with streaming entertainment until bedtime between 11 p.m. and midnight, a schedule Harper notes contrasts with his later solo hours awake when not sharing the home.

Through this routine, Harper conveys a blend of active engagement with the city’s lifestyle and a grounding in personal connections and comfort.