Michael B. Jordan’s recent encounter with a former school peer on the red carpet highlights that some memories, especially those of being bullied, can linger long after they’ve happened. At 37, Jordan has built an impressive career spanning over two decades, beginning with roles in shows like “Cosby” and “The Sopranos,” and later gaining prominence in films like “Hardball” alongside Keanu Reeves and as Wallace in HBO’s “The Wire.” His journey has seen him evolve into a formidable force in Hollywood, starring as the villain in “Black Panther,” stepping behind the camera for “Creed III,” and even becoming a part-owner of the Premier League football club AFC Bournemouth.
Despite his achievements, it seems the scars from past ridicule don’t completely fade, even for a star of his caliber. During a promotional event for “Creed III,” Jordan encountered Lore’l, now a host of The Morning Hustle Show, who also attended Newark Arts High School with him. Recalling their school days, Jordan took the opportunity to confront her about her previous remarks, asking, “I was the corny kid, right?” Lore’l quickly countered, “I did not say that! I was misquoted for sure!” to which Jordan firmly responded, “I heard it.”
Jordan was alluding to comments Lore’l had made on the Undressing Room podcast in 2021, where she admitted, “You know what’s so crazy? I went to school with Michael B. Jordan at a point in life. And to be honest with you, we teased him all the damn time because his name was Michael Jordan. Let’s start there, and he was no Michael Jordan. And he also would come to school with a headshot. We lived in Newark, that’s the hood.” She explained that their group would mock him for his acting aspirations, questioning the value of his “stupid headshot.”
Lore’l acknowledged Jordan’s current success, adding, “And now look at him. But yeah, he is obviously killing things out there.” Attempting to lighten the mood during their red carpet interaction, she remarked, “Well, you’re not corny anymore,” though Jordan did not seem to engage much further, continuing his walk down the carpet.
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The incident, which unfolded in 2023, spurred numerous fans to defend Jordan online. One user on X commented, “You called him corny. Now you gotta call him actor, director, superstar, Hollywood mogul. Living legend. He took that s**t personally.” Another added, “You called him corny, but you’re the one who interviewing him not the other way around. I’m glad MBJ got the last laugh.”
This encounter serves as a reminder of the lasting impact of childhood teasing and the sweet revenge of monumental success.