Denzel Washington’s Career Wisdom Shapes Michael B. Jordan’s Rise: The Power of Staying Off the Grid
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
Michael B. Jordan’s meteoric rise to Hollywood stardom isn’t just fueled by talent—it’s also shaped by savvy career advice from one of the greats. The actor, who recently dazzled audiences worldwide with Ryan Coogler’s vampire thriller Sinners—which has grossed over $350 million globally—credits Denzel Washington’s guidance for helping him master the art of maintaining demand in an era of constant exposure.
In a revealing cover story for New York Magazine, Jordan opened up about Washington’s blunt but valuable advice: “Why would they pay to see you on a weekend if they see you all week for free?” This straightforward question has influenced Jordan’s approach to fame, pushing him to limit his social media presence and public appearances outside promotional activities.
Michael B. Jordan’s path to movie stardom wasn’t instant. Although he appeared as a child in films like Hardball, it was his breakthrough television roles on critically acclaimed shows like The Wire and Friday Night Lights that made Hollywood take notice. Yet, Jordan was uncertain about his future 12 years ago, questioning whether he was destined to be a TV actor or if he could carry a film as a leading man.
That uncertainty ended when he met director Ryan Coogler and was cast in Fruitvale Station. “Ryan told me he thought I was a movie star,” Jordan recalls. “He thought I was a great actor, and he wanted to show the rest of the world that.” The film’s critical acclaim launched the careers of both men, paving the way for blockbuster collaborations like Creed and Black Panther—culminating in the recent success of Sinners.
Jordan’s manager, Phillip Sun, highlighted the actor’s broader impact, saying, “Mike deserves to be a leading man, period. He happens to be a Black leading man. But we weren’t chasing roles just based on color. We chased everything.”
Following Washington’s advice, Jordan strategically avoids overexposure. He eschews popular platforms like X and TikTok, maintaining a modest but engaged Instagram presence with 25 million followers. His posts largely focus on promoting his film projects rather than his personal life, creating a sense of anticipation and exclusivity around his appearances.
Washington and Jordan’s relationship extends beyond mentorship—Washington directed Jordan in the 2021 romance drama A Journal for Jordan, further cementing their professional and personal bond.
In an entertainment landscape where celebrities often share every aspect of their lives online, Michael B. Jordan’s measured approach—guided by Denzel Washington’s timeless wisdom—proves that sometimes, less really is more. The result is a star who captivates audiences not just with his performances, but with a carefully curated aura that keeps fans eager for his next move.
