Michael B. Jordan delivers heartfelt homage following historic Academy Award win for Sinners

n n

US actor Michael B. Jordan holds his Oscar for Best Actor in a Leading Role for “Sinners” as he attends the 98th Annual Academy Awards Governors Ball at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California on March 15, 2026. (Photo by ANGELA WEISS / AFP)

n

By Emmanuel Okogba

n

Actor Michael B. Jordan captured his first Academy Award for his role in Sinners, delivering an emotional acceptance speech that paid tribute to his family, collaborators, and the trailblazers who paved the way for him.

n

Jordan, visibly moved, began by thanking God and acknowledging his parents, noting that his father had flown in from Ghana to witness the milestone. He also expressed gratitude to Warner Brothers and filmmaker Ryan Coogler for believing in the project and supporting original artistry.

n

The actor praised his castmates, including Miles, Delroy, Jamie, Lili, and Omar, for their support in bringing his character “Smoke” to life. He also gave a heartfelt shoutout to his partner Haley, who is preparing to welcome their child.

n

Jordan reflected on the legacy of Black actors who inspired him, mentioning Sidney Poitier, Denzel Washington, Halle Berry, Jamie Foxx, Forrest Whitaker, and Will Smith. “To be amongst those giants, amongst those greats, amongst my ancestors — thank you,” he said.

n

Expressing gratitude for the support he has received, he said “I feel it. I know you guys want me to do well. And I want to do that because you guys bet on me. So thank you for keeping, for keep betting on me. And I’m going to keep stepping up. And I’m going to keep being the best version of myself I could be.”

n

“You guys made this movie what it is. I’m going to keep stepping up and being the best version of myself I can be,” Jordan promised in closing

n

The win marks a career-defining moment for Jordan, who has long been recognized as one of Hollywood’s most versatile talents.

n

Sinners, release in 2025, is a Ryan Coogler-directed horror film set in 1932 Mississippi, where twin brothers (Michael B. Jordan) return to their hometown to escape their criminal past and establish a juke joint, only to confront supernatural vampires and evil.

n n