Michael B. Jordan was celebrated at the 39th American Cinematheque Awards ceremony held on November 20 in Los Angeles, where he received heartfelt tributes from several prominent figures in Hollywood. The event took place at The Beverly Hilton and featured a star-studded lineup of presenters, including his “Creed” co-star Tessa Thompson, “Fruitvale Station” co-star Octavia Spencer, and director Ryan Coogler, who all lauded Jordan’s contributions to film.
Among the notable honors was a touching speech by Ben Affleck, who spoke about the depth of their friendship and how it has enriched his life. Affleck, 53, expressed that being able to celebrate Jordan’s achievements was a significant moment in his career. He reminisced about the first time he saw Jordan’s poignant performance in “Fruitvale Station,” which left a lasting impression on him. “I was blown away by that incredible performance, and I rank it as a life-changing movie I will never forget seeing,” Affleck shared.
Their friendship blossomed when Affleck reached out to Jordan, recognizing early on that Jordan had the potential to become a major star. “I told him that the only deal was I would never ask him for anything,” Affleck said, reflecting on their bond. He emphasized the value of their conversations, which allowed him to witness Jordan’s journey and growth in the industry.
Affleck praised Jordan for his dedication, kindness, and the grace with which he navigates his career, noting that it has been a joy to watch him transform into not just a leading actor but also a talented director and producer. He concluded his tribute with heartfelt words, telling Jordan, “Your friendship has meant an enormous amount to me… you deserve all this. Congratulations.”
This celebration of Michael B. Jordan not only highlights his remarkable achievements but also signifies the strength of friendship and mentorship in Hollywood. Both Affleck and Jordan’s narratives reflect the importance of support and guidance in the competitive world of film, offering a hopeful perspective on collaboration and community within the industry.