Michael B. Jordan has been named the 2020 Sexiest Man Alive, joining an elite group as only the fifth man of color to receive the annual distinction. The 33-year-old actor, whose career has transitioned from television dramas to leading massive cinematic franchises, described the recognition as “a cool feeling” while acknowledging the personal significance it holds for his family.
Jordan’s rise to prominence began on the small screen, where he first gained widespread critical attention for his portrayal of quarterback Vince Howard on the NBC series “Friday Night Lights.” However, his transition to a major Hollywood star was solidified in 2013. That year, he starred in the acclaimed film “Fruitvale Station,” which served as the directorial debut for Ryan Coogler. His performance at the age of 26 was significant enough to earn him a place in the magazine’s first annual “Ones to Watch” portfolio, a precursor to the global stardom he would eventually achieve.
In the years following his breakthrough, Jordan became a staple of high-profile blockbusters. He successfully revived the legacy of the “Rocky” franchise in 2015 with the sequel “Creed” and entered the Marvel Cinematic Universe in 2018 as Erik Killmonger in the critically and commercially successful “Black Panther.” These roles established him as one of the most bankable and recognizable actors of his generation.
Beyond his acting achievements, Jordan has become increasingly known for his advocacy work. During the summer of 2020, he was an active participant in social justice efforts, marching in Black Lives Matter protests to demand racial equality. This commitment to activism has become a defining characteristic of his public persona alongside his professional success.
The actor noted that the honor is particularly special because of his family’s long history with the publication. He recalled that his late grandmother used to collect the magazine, and his mother and aunts continue to be regular readers. Jordan shared that the news will be especially meaningful for them, noting that they will undoubtedly find a special place to display this specific issue.
