Key Points

Michael B. Jordan candidly shared how director Ryan Coogler was instrumental in his transformation from ensemble actor to leading movie star. Through films like 'Creed' and 'Black Panther', Coogler helped Jordan believe in his potential as a headline actor. Jordan also spoke highly of his 'Sinners' co-star Hailee Steinfeld, praising her versatile performance and potential. His reflections highlight the crucial role of mentorship and belief in an actor's professional journey.

Key Points: Michael B Jordan Credits Ryan Coogler for Movie Star Journey

  • Ryan Coogler pivotal in Jordan's breakthrough as lead actor
  • Jordan praises Hailee Steinfeld's versatile performance in 'Sinners'
  • Actor reflects on career transformation and industry challenges
2 min read

Michael B. Jordan says 'Ryan Coogler convinced me I could become a movie star'

Hollywood star reveals how director Ryan Coogler transformed his career and belief in himself as a leading actor

"Ryan was the first director to believe in me and tell me I was a movie star - Michael B. Jordan"

Los Angeles, April 9

Hollywood star Michael B. Jordan has heaped praise on filmmaker Ryan Coogler and said that the director played an instrumental role in his success.

The 38-year-old actor has frequently worked with Coogler over the last decade such as 'Creed', 'Black Panther' and 'Sinners'.

Jordan told 'Extra': "It's extremely important to me ... I feel like, at a time, earlier in my career when I was figuring out what type of actor I wanted to be, lead actor, you know, like where do I stand in the entertainment industry?"

"Only been a part of ensembles and in this nature, never opened a movie before, never been a lead of a film before, so I was searching for that and Ryan was the first director to believe in that, and tell me I was a movie star and believed it and made me believe it, you know?"

The actor features alongside actress Hailee Steinfeld in 'Sinners', a new horror movie set in the 1930s in Southern United States, and Jordan previously claimed that his co-star's performance shows her "in a new light," reports femalefirst.co.uk.

Jordan feels the project could actually prove to be a landmark in Steinfeld's career.

He told WhoWhatWear: "Hailee's performance in 'Sinners' is very, very versatile and honestly fun. I think it's gonna make people lean in and get a chance to see her in a way they haven't had an opportunity to see her in before.

"As you know, it's tough to grow up in this industry where people get a chance to see you every step of the way, and they kinda have an idea of who you are and what you can do. I think this is one of those roles that's gonna show Hailee in a new light."

Jordan relished the experience of working with Steinfeld, saying that they developed a family-like bond during the shoot.

He said: "She's extremely talented, an extremely hard worker, and a great scene partner."

"When you're on a project like this, in the midst of hard scenes to navigate, (and) balancing the emotional aspects and long days, you really get a chance to become a family. I'm extremely proud of her, and I can't wait for the world to see her performance, and I truly can't wait to see what she does next."

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

T
Taylor R.
Love seeing this mutual respect between Jordan and Coogler! Their collaborations always deliver 🔥 That Black Panther-Creed combo is unmatched. Can't wait to see Sinners now too!
J
Jamal K.
While I appreciate their partnership, I wish the article had more details about how exactly Coogler mentored Jordan. The "believed in me" part is sweet but feels a bit vague. Still, great to see positive Black mentorship in Hollywood.
S
Sarah L.
Hailee Steinfeld is so underrated! Glad Jordan is giving her flowers 🌸 Their chemistry in the trailer looks amazing. 1930s horror setting? Count me in!
M
Marcus T.
MBJ's humility is so refreshing. Even after all his success, he still gives credit to those who helped him along the way. That's real leadership right there.
A
Aisha P.
"Became a family on set" - that's when you know the project is special. These two are about to give us some serious Oscar buzz, I can feel it! The horror genre needs more prestige films like this.
D
Derek W.
Remember when people doubted MBJ after Fantastic Four? Look at him now - proving everyone wrong. Coogler saw the vision early!

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50