Michael B. Jordan recalled the career advice Ben Affleck shared with him after his breakout 2013 movie ‘Fruitvale Station’
Michael B. Jordan and Ben Affleck in ‘Variety’.
DAN DOPERALSKI FOR VARIETYMichael B. Jordan and Ben Affleck are reflecting on their Hollywood friendship.
The stars sat down for a conversation in Variety’s Directors on Directors series, published Wednesday, and recalled how they first became friends after Jordan, 36, had a breakout role in Ryan Coogler’s 2013 movie Fruitvale Station after its premiere at the Sundance Film Festival.
“I remember you and Matt [Damon] had hit me and were basically like, ‘Mike, your life is getting ready to change,’ ” Jordan told Affleck, 51. “You kinda just talked me through the movie and I was like, ‘Wow, this guy actually watched the film and he likes my work.’ ”
“And from there, it was just like a big brother–little brother kind of relationship,” he said.
“To me I just remember so clearly, I saw the movie and I was like, ‘This guy is a star,’ ” Affleck said.
Michael B. Jordan and Ben Affleck in ‘Variety’.DAN DOPERALSKI FOR VARIETY
“It was so clear to me: This guy’s just going up, up, up, up, up, up, up, up,” Affleck added. “And be ready, because I know there’s a lot of things that come along that are difficult that nobody tells you. And I had a friend doing it with me [in Damon].”
Affleck said he originally wanted to connect with Jordan as his star rose because he knew from experience that it can be “a very lonely experience sometimes.”
“I was like, ‘Hey, man, if you want to talk to somebody who would give you honest feedback … I may not be right, [but] I always tell you the truth,’ ” he said. “I love the relationship we have. Now, I just brag about it. ‘Michael Jordan’s my friend. I know him.’ ”
Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.
Ben Affleck in ‘Variety’.DAN DOPERALSKI FOR VARIETY
“People don’t realize how big of an impact that can make on somebody, especially when you don’t know what’s coming next,” Jordan added.
During the conversation, Affleck praised Jordan for stepping out as a first-time director with this year’s Creed III. The pair also joked about another famous Michael Jordan, whose life and legacy in basketball and the sneaker industry Affleck’s latest movie Air centers on.
Michael B. Jordan in ‘Variety’.DAN DOPERALSKI FOR VARIETY
“I was thinking about Air on the way over here, what I took away from it. I remember when we were going to do it, I met the other Michael Jordan,” Affleck joked. “That’s kind of dope that there’s now two Michael Jordans.”
“I appreciate that. I’m on the Michael Mount Rushmore a little bit,” Jordan responded.
News
Behind the Scenes: The Influence of Hollywood on Henry Cavill’s Personal and Professional Life
Henry Cavill’s journey in Hollywood is a tale of triumphs, challenges, and unexpected twists. From his breakout role as Superman to his recent career shifts and exciting…
From Stardom to Superhero: How Henry Cavill’s Film Career Shaped His Life
Henry Cavill, the charismatic British actor, has risen to prominence in Hollywood through his captivating performances and striking on-screen presence. From his early breakthrough roles to his…
Evolution of a Superstar: Henry Cavill’s Top 5 Career-Defining Roles Post ‘Man of Steel’
Henry Cavill’s journey from portraying the iconic Superman to embracing a diverse range of roles has solidified his status as one of Hollywood’s most versatile actors. While…
Beyond the Cape: Unmasking the Surprising Layers of Henry Cavill’s Character
Henry Cavill, the dashing leading man known for his roles in “The Witcher” and as the iconic Superman, has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. Yet, beneath…
Behind the Curtain: 5 Eye-Opening Lessons for Young Actors from Henry Cavill’s Career Trajectory
Henry Cavill, the British actor best known for his iconic portrayal of Superman, has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with his captivating performances and undeniable charisma….
Decoding Henry Cavill’s Wealth Management Strategies: An In-Depth Analysis Revealed!
Henry Cavill, known for his iconic roles in films like “Man of Steel” and “The Witcher,” is not only a talented actor but also a savvy businessman…
End of content
No more pages to load