*Former TV judge Joe Brown has questioned the significance of Michael B. Jordan’s recent Best Actor Oscar for his dual role in “Sinners,” igniting debate online. Brown praised Jordan’s long career but suggested that awards like the Oscars hold limited real-world value.
“I am happy for Michael B. Jordan… he’s been in this business for 25 years,” Brown said in a recent interview on the “Dana with the Data” podcast, The Root reports. “What difference does that make in the scheme of things?”
He argued that Black actors shouldn’t place too much emphasis on awards, suggesting that Hollywood largely focuses on entertainment and fantasy rather than real-world impact.
Brown expanded on his critique, adding, “When your heroes become people who are in the fantasy and make-believe instead of real-world heroes–because you don’t have none—you’re in a pretty pathetic position” He clarified that he was not attacking Jordan personally, but critiquing the broader culture of idolizing actors over tangible achievements.
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The remarks drew mixed reactions online. One YouTube commenter asked, “Why can’t American Blacks unite and rejoice in the success of their fellow American Black brothers and sisters?”
Sports commentator Jason Whitlock also voiced skepticism about Jordan’s win. On X.com, he argued the Oscar was influenced more by Hollywood’s diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives than by acting merit. Whitlock called “Sinners” “hot garbage” and described Jordan’s performance as “mid at best,” while listing Sidney Poitier, Denzel Washington, Jamie Foxx, Forrest Whitaker, and Will Smith as actors he felt were more deserving.
Supporters countered that Jordan’s dual performance as twins Smoke and Stack in Ryan Coogler’s vampire period film was a genuine acting achievement. They also noted that the Academy frequently considers an actor’s body of work when awarding Oscars, reinforcing the legitimacy of the recognition.
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