Michael B. Jordan Wins First Oscar for Sinners
Published on March 16, 2026 at 5:35 AM by Evance Kapito
American actor Michael B. Jordan has won the Best Actor award at the 98th Academy Awards, currently taking place in Los Angeles, for his performance in the film Sinners.
This marks Jordan’s first Oscar win, beating strong contenders including Timothée Chalamet for Marty Supreme, Ethan Hawke for Blue Moon, and Leonardo DiCaprio for One Battle After Another.
During his emotional acceptance speech, Jordan said, “God is good,” before thanking his mother and other family members who were present at the ceremony.
He also paid tribute to director Ryan Coogler, with whom he has worked multiple times.
“I’m so honoured to call you a collaborator and a friend. Thank you for giving me the opportunity and the space for me to be seen,” Jordan said.
In Sinners, written and directed by Coogler, Jordan plays identical twin brothers Elijah “Smoke” and Elias “Stack” Moore, becoming the first actor to win an Oscar for portraying twins in a film.
At 39, Jordan also becomes the sixth Black actor to win the Best Actor award, joining notable winners such as Forest Whitaker, Denzel Washington, and Sidney Poitier.
He also acknowledged actors who paved the way before him, including Will Smith and Jamie Foxx, thanking fans and supporters for believing in his career.
Jordan concluded his speech by promising to continue improving and becoming the best version of himself.
