Michael B. Jordan has revealed that he sought therapy after portraying the character of Killmonger in the acclaimed 2018 film Black Panther. The film, which stars the late Chadwick Boseman as the titular superhero, is celebrated for its groundbreaking representation of Black culture within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Jordan’s portrayal of the complex antagonist left a profound impact on him, prompting a journey of self-discovery through therapy.
In an interview with CBS Sunday Morning, Jordan expressed that the character “stuck with me for a bit,” indicating the emotional weight he carried after filming. He described therapy as an essential outlet that allowed him to “decompress” and reflect on his experiences. Jordan explained that he was still learning how to separate himself from the role, stating, “I needed to decompress from a character.”
Therapy has proven to be a transformative experience for Jordan, contributing to his growth as a communicator and a more well-rounded individual. He has become an advocate for mental health awareness, particularly among men. “I think that’s something that’s necessary for people, you know? Especially men,” he remarked. Jordan emphasized that he is proud of seeking help and encourages others to do the same.
Black Panther was a monumental success, grossing over $1 billion worldwide and earning a near-perfect score of 96% on Rotten Tomatoes. The film received numerous accolades during award season, including three Oscars for Best Costume Design, Best Original Score, and Best Production Design. It also garnered a nomination for Best Picture, highlighting the film’s significant cultural impact.
Jordan’s performance in Black Panther earned him multiple awards, including Outstanding Supporting Actor at the Black Reel Awards and Best Villain at the MTV Movie & TV Awards. Following his journey in therapy, he continued to evolve as an actor, starring in films such as Creed II and Creed III, both of which received positive reviews from critics.
The latest installment in the Black Panther franchise, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, featured Jordan in a brief appearance as Killmonger, a character who continues to resonate with audiences. Directed by Ryan Coogler, the film pays tribute to Boseman while continuing the story of Wakanda and its heroes.
Jordan’s growth as an actor is evident in his recent project, Sinners, which has garnered critical acclaim and nominations at various award ceremonies, including the Critics’ Choice Awards and the Golden Globes. The film, which explores themes of family and resilience, has further cemented Jordan’s status in Hollywood.
As he looks towards the future, Jordan’s continued collaboration with Coogler raises the possibility of his return as Killmonger in Black Panther 3. Although the character met his demise in the first film, the MCU’s exploration of the Ancestral Plane leaves the door open for creative storytelling possibilities.
Through his journey in therapy and his evolving career, Michael B. Jordan has emerged as a strong advocate for mental health, encouraging dialogue around the importance of emotional well-being in the entertainment industry and beyond.
