Michael B. Jordan reached a major career milestone at the Academy Awards. The actor earned his first Oscar after delivering a demanding double performance in the supernatural drama Sinners.
Michael B Jordan bags first Oscar for Sinners
Michael B. Jordan scored a major career milestone by winning the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role as twin brothers Smoke and Stack in Sinners. The win marked his first Oscar nomination and his first victory. With the achievement, Jordan became the sixth Black actor to win the lead actor award.
During his emotional speech at the Academy Awards, Jordan paid tribute to the trailblazers who came before him. He highlighted icons such as Sidney Poitier, Denzel Washington, Jamie Foxx, Forest Whitaker, and Will Smith. He also gave props to Halle Berry, who remains the only Black woman to win the Academy Award for Best Actress. Jordan said he stands on the shoulders of those who paved the way. I stand here because of the people that came before me,” he said (via Variety).
Jordan also shared a heartfelt moment with his family while speaking onstage. He thanked his parents, who were present at the ceremony, and reflected on their support throughout his journey. “Man, God is good. God is good,” he said before calling out to his mother and father in the audience.
The actor used part of his speech to praise filmmaker Ryan Coogler, with whom he has collaborated on several projects, including Fruitvale Station, Creed, and Black Panther. Jordan thanked Coogler for believing in him and giving him opportunities to grow as a performer. “You’re an amazing person. You gave me the opportunity and space for me to be seen,” he said.
Set in the 1930s American South, Sinners tells the story of two brothers who return home after World War I, hoping to start fresh. They plan to open a lively juke joint in their small hometown. Their dream quickly falls apart when a wave of vampires begins terrorizing the area. The movie also received 16 Academy Award nominations, winning four.
