Michael B. Jordan's Oscar-winning speech honors Black artists who painfully paved the way

Michael B. Jordan just received his first-ever Academy Award. The actor, 39, won the Oscar for Best Actor in a Leading Role for his iconic dual roles as Smoke and Stack in Ryan Coogler's horror movie "Sinners." Jordon's victory is historic also because he became the first performer in over sixty years, after Lee Marvin in Cat Ballou (1965), to win the lead actor category for playing twins, the Los Angeles Times reported on March 15.

More than Jordan's Oscar win, his acceptance speech stole the spotlight and reminded everyone why he was a deserving winner. The "Black Panther" star gave a shoutout to actors like Denzel Washington, Jamie Foxx, and Will Smith, among other Black actors who came before him and made his journey easier.

As Adrien Brody announced Jordan’s name, the "Creed" actor grew visibly emotional. Each step toward the stage reflected his disbelief and overpowering emotions. As Jordon finally reached the microphone to accept the award, he spoke with quiet wisdom that moved the audience. "God is good," Jordon began before introducing his family to the world.

The moment felt extra special as his father had flown in from Ghana, while his mother and siblings were also present to witness his historic win. "I want to thank Warner Bros. I want to thank Mike and Pam for believing in this dream, this vision of Ryan Coogler, and betting on a culture embedded in original ideas and original artistry," Jordon added.

Moreover, the "Fantastic Four" actor took the opportunity to thank legendary Black actors who came before him and made his success possible. "I stand here because of the people that came before me — Sidney Poitier, Denzel Washington, Halle Berry, Jamie Foxx, Will Smith — and to be amongst those giants, those greats, amongst my ancestors, amongst my guys, thank you, everybody, in this room and everybody at home for supporting me over my career," Jordon confessed.

The Oscar winner added he wants to do well in his career and is aware that his fans and well-wishers are always cheering for him. "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 betting on me," he added.

Jordon's Oscar win is also special because before him, only five Black actors had won the Best Actor award. In 1963, Sidney Poitier became the first-ever Black man to win an Academy Award for Best Actor for "Lilies of the Field." In fact, Poitier was also the first Black man to be nominated for the Oscars in 1958. Following him were actress Halle Berry in 2002 and Denzel Washington in 2002, Jamie Foxx in 2005, and Forest Whitaker in 2007, according to Wion News.

Notably, while White people account for 82% of Oscar winners and 80% of nominees, Black people make up 13% of the U.S. population; they account for 18% of Oscar winners and 12% of nominees, according to an analysis published in Research Gate.

Meanwhile, reacting to Jordon's winning speech, @sideeyetea commented, "Congrats, Michael B. Jordan, your 'Sinners' win feels right. Loved how raw and lived-in those characters felt, like real people fighting demons inside and out. Reminds me why I keep watching: moments like this when talent shines through. So stoked for him and whatever’s next! #Oscars."

Similarly, @shaka_cx wrote, "Michael B. Jordan has had an incredible journey in Hollywood. He started with smaller roles and slowly built his reputation. Over time, he became one of the most respected actors in the industry. His performances always bring intensity and authenticity. That commitment is what makes his work stand out. Winning Best Actor shows the impact of his performance. It also reflects the respect he has earned from his peers. Achievements like this take years to accomplish. It’s a reminder of how important dedication is. This moment will be remembered for a long time."

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