Delroy Lindo’s portrayal of Delta Slim in the 2026 film Sinners has captured widespread acclaim, earning him his first Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Michael B. Jordan shared insights about working with Lindo, highlighting how the veteran actor influenced his own performance in the film. The focus on Michael B Jordan Sinners underscores the intensity and dedication both actors brought to their roles.
Jordan Recalls His Nervous First Day with Delroy Lindo
On the first day of shooting, Michael B. Jordan admitted feeling anxious, especially about interacting with Delroy Lindo. Set in the South, the heavy heat added to the pressure as Jordan prepared with a Southern accent and full costume. The uncertainty about how Lindo would approach his role initially caused Jordan to hesitate, unsure whether Lindo would stay in character constantly or step out between takes.
“It’s my first day, I’m anxious, I’m doing it, got this Southern dialect, you know what I mean? You know, full costume, it’s hot as hell down in the South. Oh, it was cooking! It was hot. You know, we’ve got Delroy, he ain’t saying too much, right? I’m like ‘Oh man, he ain’t talking too much.’ Sometimes you don’t know how another actor is going to show up. Is he going completely in character? Is he going to, after cut, is he going to be laughing? Is he going to be talking? So, I wasn’t quite sure.”
Jordan described a moment inside a car where he began to break the ice with Lindo, observing the deep Southern tone and mannerisms the actor brought to the character. This interaction gave Jordan confidence and motivated him to elevate his own performance.
“So, you know, we’re in the car, and he had his voice, he came out with that deep, Southern bass in his voice, and his tooth thing, he was kind of looking and he had his flask. And he was kind of looking at me. I started talking to him, like regular. He kind of gave me that stuff back, and I was like ‘Oh yeah, this is what it’s going to be right now. Alright, cool, let me step my stuff up.’”
Delroy Lindo’s Influence as a Guiding Force on Set
Lindo’s commitment and commanding presence had a profound effect on Jordan, setting the tone for the entire production. His readiness and energy were a benchmark for the cast and crew, underscoring the high standard expected throughout the shoot.
“He’s an actor that definitely always brings it and has such a presence. He was the first check-in for me on this movie to be like, ‘Hey, this is what we’re bringing every day. So, let’s be ready.’ And Delroy was that for me.”
Delroy Lindo’s Long-Awaited Oscar Nod and Career Highlights
At 73, and after five decades of acting, Delroy Lindo received his first Oscar nomination, joining nominees like Benicio del Toro and Sean Penn for One Battle After Another, Jacob Elordi for Frankenstein, and Stellan Skarsgård for Sentimental Value. The news was delivered to Lindo by his son in a memorable phone call, which Lindo appreciated deeply given his extensive career.
Lindo joined Sinners after receiving the script directly from director Ryan Coogler. The actor immediately committed to the project upon reading it, signalling a swift decision to be part of the film.
“read it and pretty much agreed to do it right then.”
Michael B. Jordan’s Dual Role and His Own Oscar Recognition
Michael B. Jordan delivered a powerful performance, portraying twin characters named Smoke and Stack in the film. His work did not go unnoticed, earning him a nomination for Best Actor, marking a milestone alongside Lindo’s nod. Jordan’s presence and versatility contributed substantially to the film’s overall strength.
Sinners Breaks Records with 16 Oscar Nominations
The film Sinners made historic waves at the 98th Academy Awards, securing 16 nominations—the most ever for a single movie in the ceremony’s history. Alongside the acting categories, the film is also competing for Best Picture, Directing, Original Screenplay, Casting, and numerous technical awards such as Production Design, Film Editing, and Sound. Wunmi Mosaku’s nomination for Best Supporting Actress highlights the strong ensemble supporting the leads.
Upcoming Awards Night and Where to Watch Sinners
The 98th Academy Awards ceremony is scheduled to air live on ABC and Hulu on Sunday, March 15. Until then, audiences looking to experience Jordan and Lindo’s acclaimed performances can stream Sinners through an HBO Max subscription, where the film is currently available.
