Michael B. Jordan, known for his role as Killmonger in the acclaimed 2018 film Black Panther, has opened up about his decision to seek therapy following his portrayal of the character. In an interview with CBS Sunday Morning, Jordan shared that the emotional weight of playing Killmonger lingered with him, prompting him to explore professional help.
During the discussion, Jordan reflected on the impact the role had on him, stating, “Killmonger kind of stuck with me for a bit.” He emphasized that therapy provided him with a vital outlet to “decompress,” allowing him to process the intense emotions associated with the character. This experience marked a significant point in his journey of self-discovery, where he learned the importance of managing the psychological effects of acting.
Jordan’s commitment to mental health extends beyond his personal experience. He advocates for open conversations about therapy, particularly among men. He noted, “I think that spiraled into a bigger conversation and self-discovery of, like, ‘Okay, you know, I think that’s something that’s necessary for people, you know?’” His candid acknowledgment of therapy has resonated with many, challenging societal norms around mental health discussions.
The release of Black Panther was a landmark moment in film history, grossing over $1 billion at the box office and receiving widespread acclaim, including a 96% score on Rotten Tomatoes. The film not only spotlighted the first Black superhero in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), portrayed by the late Chadwick Boseman, but also garnered numerous accolades during awards season. Notably, it won three Oscars, including Best Costume Design and Best Original Score, while Jordan himself received multiple nominations for his role.
Following the success of Black Panther, Jordan continued to evolve as an actor, starring in films such as Creed II and Creed III. His latest project, Sinners, has received positive reviews and nominations at prestigious events like the Critics’ Choice Awards and the Golden Globes. The film, directed by Ryan Coogler, achieved commercial success, grossing $368 million.
Jordan’s portrayal of Killmonger remains a significant chapter in his career, and he has expressed interest in potentially reprising the role in future MCU projects. Although Killmonger’s character is deceased, there are possibilities for his return, either through flashbacks or alternate storylines, as the MCU continues to expand.
As Jordan moves forward, he aims to leverage his platform to promote the importance of mental health awareness. His journey from portraying a complex villain to advocating for therapy highlights a broader narrative about the emotional challenges faced by actors and the significance of seeking help. As he states, “That’s something I’m not ashamed of at all, and very proud of,” encapsulating his commitment to personal growth and open dialogue surrounding mental health.