At the 98th Academy Awards, Michael B. Jordan finally took his long-overdue place in Oscar history. Delivering a masterclass performance as twin brothers Elijah “Smoke” and Elias “Stack” Moore in Ryan Coogler’s genre-defying thriller Sinners, Jordan took home his very first Academy Award for Best Actor.
Beyond being a monumental personal triumph, Jordan’s win carries massive historical weight. In the 98-year history of the Academy Awards, he is only the sixth Black man to ever win the prestigious Best Actor statuette.
Taking the stage to a roaring standing ovation, Jordan acknowledged the heavy legacy of the moment, directly thanking the cinematic giants who paved the way.
Here is a look back at the exclusive, elite brotherhood of Black actors who have taken home the Academy’s top prize for leading men.
1. Sidney Poitier
The Film: Lilies of the Field (1963)
The Role: Homer Smith
2. Denzel Washington
The Film: Training Day (2001)
The Role: Detective Alonzo Harris
3. Jamie Foxx
The Film: Ray (2004)
The Role: Ray Charles
4. Forest Whitaker
The Film: The Last King of Scotland (2006)
The Role: Idi Amin
5. Will Smith
The Film: King Richard (2021)
The Role: Richard Williams
6. Michael B. Jordan
The Film: Sinners (2026)
The Role: Elijah “Smoke” Moore and Elias “Stack” Moore
