On 1st March 2026, Viola Davis stirred excitement at the Actor Awards by presenting Michael B. Jordan with an accolade for his leading role in the film ‘Sinners.’ The event showcased her enthusiastic support for Jordan, who was recognised for his exceptional performance in the film, which has gained significant praise and attention ahead of the upcoming Oscars.
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Davis, an acclaimed actress in her own right, expressed her hopes for ‘Sinners’ during a recent appearance on SiriusXM’s ‘Andy Cohen Live.’ She articulated her desire for the film, along with its writer-director Ryan Coogler and star Jordan, to find success at the 98th Academy Awards, scheduled for 15th March. The film has made history by securing an impressive 16 nominations, the most ever for a single movie.
During the interview, Davis shared her personal conflict regarding award shows, indicating a certain reluctance despite her impressive accolades, including her status as an EGOT winner. She quipped about her mixed feelings, admitting a certain “aversion” to such ceremonies but also acknowledging the joy that comes with being nominated. “I would be extremely happy if they take the award,” she remarked, demonstrating her support for the film and its team.
The actress’ enthusiastic reaction at the Actor Awards, where she was visibly ecstatic while presenting Jordan with the award for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role, became a talking point on social media. Her supportive cheers were captured on microphone as she celebrated Jordan’s win, which came as a delightful surprise to many attendees. The moment quickly went viral, with a video of the occasion garnering over 1.3 million views on YouTube.
Davis further praised Jordan in her conversation with Variety, calling him an “incredible human” and a promising leader in the industry. She highlighted his transition into directing, asserting that he will bring African American filmmaking to new heights. This endorsement reflects her belief in Jordan’s potential to shape the future of cinema positively.
Jordan’s performance in ‘Sinners’ marks a significant achievement, as he garnered not only the individual accolade for his dual role as twins Smoke and Stack but also contributed to a group win for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture. His victories this awards season signal a rising trajectory in his career and the broader recognition of diverse storytelling in Hollywood.
Moreover, ‘Sinners’ has made a remarkable impact beyond the Actor Awards. At the British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs) held on 22nd February, the film stood out as the most nominated movie and became the most celebrated work by a Black director in the history of the event. These milestones not only highlight the film’s artistic merit but also underscore the increasing recognition of Black filmmakers within the industry.
As anticipation builds for the 2026 Oscars, the momentum for ‘Sinners’ continues to grow. With a record number of nominations and significant accolades already under its belt, the film represents a pivotal moment in cinema. Davis’ advocacy reinforces the film’s importance and her commitment to supporting diverse voices in storytelling.
Viewers can look forward to full coverage of the prestigious Academy Awards ceremony, which will be broadcast live on 15th March at 7 p.m. ET on ABC, also available for streaming on Hulu. As the event approaches, the film community, along with fans of Davis and Jordan, eagerly await the outcomes and celebrate the remarkable achievements of ‘Sinners.’