Michael B. Jordan was the center of attention at the 39th American Cinematheque Awards in Los Angeles on Thursday, November 20, where the actor, director, and producer received the annual American Cinematheque Award.
The honor recognizes artists who’ve made a significant impact on the film industry, and Jordan’s ascent—from Fruitvale Station to Creed to Sinners—made him a defining presence of the night.
A long list of collaborators and friends helped mark the moment. Ryan Coogler, who directed Jordan in multiple films, including Fruitvale Station and Black Panther, spoke about finding a creative partner early in his career who matched his intensity and discipline.
Tessa Thompson highlighted Jordan’s influence on modern depictions of Black masculinity and family on screen.
Octavia Spencer, who played Jordan’s mother in Fruitvale Station, called his first major leading performance one that “withstands the test of time.”
Angela Bassett, Daniel Kaluuya, Mahershala Ali, Bradley Cooper, and others also took the stage or sent video messages to celebrate the actor.
Ben Affleck, who has become a close friend to Jordan over the years, delivered one of the night’s most personal tributes. Affleck recalled first watching Fruitvale Station in 2013 and immediately recognizing the talent in front of him. “I immediately thought, ‘My God, this guy is a huge movie star,’” he said, according to People.
Affleck went on to describe reaching out to Jordan back then to offer support, noting that he promised he’d never ask for anything in return.
Reflecting on their decade-long friendship, Affleck told Jordan, “Your friendship has meant an enormous amount to me, probably more than you know.”
He added that watching Jordan navigate fame and responsibility with “grace and aplomb” has been one of the highlights of his own career.
Jordan closed the night by thanking Coogler and the many collaborators who helped shape his path. He spoke about wanting to continue bringing light into a heavy world and encouraged young artists to “plant your seeds” and “find your people.”
Calling back to Toni Morrison’s famous advice about writing the stories that don’t yet exist, Jordan emphasized the importance of being bold in choosing which stories get told.