Michael B Jordan gives shoutout to pregnant Hailee Steinfeld while accepting Best Actor at Academy Awards 2026
Los Angeles, March 16
Actor Michael B Jordan acknowledged the absence of his 'Sinners' co-star Hailee Steinfeld during his acceptance speech at the Academy Awards 2026, revealing that the actress is preparing to welcome her first child, according to E! News.
While accepting the Best Actor award at the ceremony held on March 15, Jordan gave a heartfelt shoutout to Steinfeld, who skipped the event as she is due to give birth soon.
Thanking his castmates during the speech, Jordan mentioned "Hailee at home," adding that she is "getting ready to have a baby right now." The actress is expecting her first child with her husband, NFL quarterback Josh Allen.
Jordan's win capped a successful awards season, with the actor beating nominees including Timothee Chalamet, Leonardo DiCaprio, Ethan Hawke and Wagner Moura for the prestigious honour, according to E! News.
Earlier, Jordan had spoken about the significance of being recognised among leading performers. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter in January, he said, "I've admired and seen the Academy and the other actors in the movies and filmmakers that I've looked up to and been inspired by my whole life," adding, "To be in those conversations and in that company is a solidifying feeling."
Meanwhile, 'Sinners', directed by Ryan Coogler, had a major night at the Oscars. The film received 16 nominations, including Best Picture, and went on to win four awards, according to E! News.
Coogler, who has previously collaborated with Jordan on projects such as Fruitvale Station, Creed and Black Panther, also praised the actor's performance in the film, noting that Jordan "stepped it up to another level."
The filmmaker added that seeing Jordan recognised by peers and the wider industry would mean a lot to the actor, adding, "To see him recognized by his peers and other folks in the industry, I know that would mean a lot of him," according to E! News.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Great win for MBJ! But honestly, the article feels a bit too focused on the personal life angle. The real story is his performance beating such a strong field. Well deserved.
Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan are a legendary duo, like our own Rajkumar Hirani and Aamir Khan! Their partnership always delivers quality. 'Sinners' sounds like a must-watch.
It's a beautiful moment, but I do wish award shows would focus a little less on pregnancies when discussing actresses. Her work in the film should be the highlight, not her personal life.
16 nominations is huge! The Indian film industry should take notes on such global marketing and critical acclaim. Congratulations to the entire team.
Heartwarming gesture. In our culture too, we always acknowledge and bless expecting mothers. Good on Michael for keeping it classy and remembering his colleague on the biggest stage. 🙏
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