Michael B. Jordan has credited Chadwick Boseman as his acting inspiration while preparing for his recent horror film, Sinners. During an interview on CBS Sunday Morning with Tracy Smith, Jordan reflected on the techniques and emotional influence his late Black Panther co-star had on his own performance, marking a significant moment in his approach to the Southern dialect required for the film.
Boseman’s Lasting Influence on Jordan’s Performance
During the interview, Tracy Smith asked Michael B. Jordan about Ryan Coogler’s comment that Chadwick Boseman’s death had deeply affected him. Jordan, visibly emotional, spoke about the meaningful friendship he had with Boseman and his desire for more time together. He admitted that mastering the Southern dialect for his role in Sinners was initially challenging. A pivotal moment came when Ryan Coogler advised him to consider,
“what would Chad do in the situation,”
—Ryan Coogler, Filmmaker. This suggestion immediately shifted Jordan’s perspective, unlocking a more authentic performance.
Remembering Boseman’s dedication to his craft provided Jordan with guidance as he worked on perfecting his accent and embodying his character. Jordan recalled Boseman’s unwavering commitment to remaining in character throughout filming, both on set and off.
“He [Boseman] never broke, he always kept his accent, when he was at home, when he was on set, he always had itz”
, Michael B. Jordan, Actor. This memory gave Jordan the consistency he needed to convincingly portray his role in Sinners.
By keeping Chadwick Boseman’s legacy close, Michael B. Jordan found new depth in his own performance, crediting Coogler’s advice for helping channel a stronger connection to his character and honoring his friend’s memory as a guide through the demanding role.
Enduring Bonds Beyond the Screen and Upcoming Projects
The connection between Michael B. Jordan and Chadwick Boseman began with their work on the Marvel Cinematic Universe film, Black Panther, where they portrayed T’Challa and Erik Killmonger. Their collaboration extended beyond professional achievement, forming a friendship that continued to influence Jordan even after Boseman’s passing.
Looking to the future, the collaborative team behind Sinners, including Jordan and director Ryan Coogler, remains focused on new projects. With the conclusion of Sinners’ awards season campaign, Michael B. Jordan is already exploring roles in the upcoming remake of The Thomas Crown Affair and is considering a partnership with Will Smith for the I Am Legend sequel. Meanwhile, Coogler is actively involved in developing Black Panther 3 as well as a reboot of The X-Files.
Boseman’s Enduring Impact on the Acting World
Michael B. Jordan’s experience illustrates the lasting impression that Chadwick Boseman and his dedicated approach have left on fellow actors. With Boseman’s ethos present in his work, Jordan continues to honor the enduring friendship and the valuable lessons imparted during their shared time on set, demonstrating how personal connections can significantly influence a performer’s artistry and growth.
Michael B. Jordan reflects on the lasting impact of Chadwick Boseman’s death and recalls a moment on the @SinnersMovie set with director Ryan Coogler that helped him lock down the southern accents for the characters of Smoke and Stack.
Looking back on that experience, Jordan… pic.twitter.com/PHVLATRvTb
— CBS Sunday Morning 🌞 (@CBSSunday) January 6, 2026
