Michael B. Jordan’s Journey to Therapy After Playing Killmonger in Black Panther

In a powerful exploration of the emotional toll acting can take, Michael B. Jordan, star of the groundbreaking Marvel film Black Panther, opened up about why he sought therapy after portraying the complex villain, Killmonger. In recent discussions, he highlighted how deeply this role impacted him, shedding light on the importance of mental health, especially among men.

The Role of Killmonger and Its Emotional Impact

Black Panther, released in 2018, marked a significant moment in cinematic history as it introduced Marvel’s first Black superhero, portrayed by the late Chadwick Boseman. Jordan stepped into the shoes of Killmonger, a character driven by revenge and a desire for recognition, which made him one of Marvel’s most memorable villains. In an interview with CBS Sunday Morning, Jordan shared that the character "stuck with me for a bit," indicating that experiencing Killmonger’s intense emotions had a profound impact on him.

Jordan’s portrayal of Killmonger was not just a performance; it became an internal battle that he had to confront long after filming wrapped. He admitted that the character’s weight lingered, prompting him to realize that he needed an outlet to navigate these feelings.

The Therapeutic Journey

Seeking therapy became a pivotal step for Jordan in his journey to decompress from the intense experience of embodying Killmonger. During therapy sessions, he was able to articulate the emotions that were weighing on him, leading to a significant process of self-discovery. He describes this therapeutic experience as crucial for understanding his emotional landscape post-filming. Jordan expressed, "I think that spiraled into a bigger conversation and self-discovery of, like, ‘Okay, you know, I think that’s something that’s necessary for people, you know?’"

Therapy provided him with tools to communicate better and become a more well-rounded person, improving both his personal and professional relationships. As he emphasized, this process is one he is proud of, and he openly promotes the idea that seeking help and discussing mental health is vital, especially for men who often feel societal pressure to remain stoic.

A Revolutionary Film and Its Success

Black Panther was not only a cultural milestone; it grossed over $1 billion worldwide and achieved a remarkable 96% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The film’s success extended beyond box office numbers; it garnered multiple prestigious awards, including three Oscars for Best Costume Design, Best Original Score, and Best Production Design. The nomination for Best Picture was particularly significant, as it spotlighted the superhero genre’s capacity for storytelling at a high level.

Jordan’s performance as Killmonger earned him acclaim across various award circuits. He won Outstanding Supporting Actor at the Black Reel Awards and Best Villain at the MTV Movie & TV Awards, solidifying his standing as a talented actor capable of delivering complex characters.

Re-emergence in the MCU and Continued Growth

Following the success of Black Panther, Jordan reprised his role in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, which was filmed after Boseman’s untimely passing. His return as Killmonger in the Ancestral Plane provided a poignant nod to the past and demonstrated the character’s lasting emotional relevance, both to the narrative and to Jordan’s personal healing journey.

As he continues to evolve as an actor, Jordan has starred in films like Creed II and Creed III, further showcasing his versatility and commitment to his craft. Sinners, his latest film, has also been a topic of discussion, as it is tipped to earn him his first Oscar nomination, a testament to his growth and dedication.

Promoting Mental Health Awareness

Jordan’s experience serves as a powerful reminder of the emotional complexities that actors can face when delving into intense roles. His message about the importance of therapy is heartfelt, emphasizing that it’s okay for men—who often face stigmas around vulnerability—to seek help.

He candidly advocates for mental health awareness, asserting, "That’s something I’m not ashamed of at all, and very proud of." Through his journey, he not only sheds light on his personal struggles but also inspires others to take similar steps toward healing and self-improvement.

Future Possibilities

While Killmonger met a tragic end in Black Panther, the possibility of Jordan’s return in a future instalment of the franchise remains. There’s ongoing speculation about his character’s potential appearance in Black Panther 3, whether through nostalgic flashbacks in the Ancestral Plane or even as a variant in the ever-expanding Marvel multiverse.

Jordan’s journey is far from over; his commitment to his craft and advocacy for mental health remains strong, paving the way for more meaningful contributions to cinema and society at large.