Lily Tomlin is a captivating performer, but she’s also behind the production of the acclaimed play “Billie Jean,” currently showing at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater.

Originally from Detroit, Tomlin found a special place in her heart for Chicago during her stand-up career. Recently visiting the city, she shared with ABC7 Chicago’s Hosea Sanders that she once considered a career in medicine before realizing her passion for acting and storytelling.

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“I was in pre-nursing; later, I got into pre-med. But that didn’t last long either. I said, ‘I have to go be in show business,'” Tomlin said.

She said, as a child, she put on shows all the time.

“But, growing up in a blue-collar family, the idea of entering show business didn’t occur to you,” Tomlin said. “Honestly, these characters are aspects of me. Ernestine, the phone operator, is feisty. She’s unafraid to confront anyone and navigates both sides skillfully.”

She said the best part of her life right now is “sort of not working” or being on the road.

When asked about what’s next, Tomlin said, “I’d like to hang a hammock between two trees by a little stream.”

Tomlin’s dedication to bringing Billie Jean King’s story to the stage stems from her admiration for King as a trailblazer, not just in tennis, but as a champion for women’s rights.

“Billie Jean” is at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier through this Sunday, and earning great reviews.