Michael B Jordan’s drama teacher, mentors recall his early drive after Oscar win: ‘Always focused’

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Michael B Jordan won his first Oscar for his performance in Ryan Coogler's 'Sinners' on Sunday, March 15.

While the Hollywood spotlight shines on his success today, people who knew him during his teenage years say the signs of his dedication and leadership were already clear. Former teachers, school administrators, coaches, and classmates from Newark Arts High School have shared memories that highlight his early focus, compassion, and work ethic.  

Carl Gonzalez reflects on Michael B Jordan’s early focus and acting drive

Carl Gonzalez, Jordan’s former drama teacher at Newark Arts High School, remembers the actor, who won the Best Actor Oscar for his dual role as Smoke and Stack in 'Sinners', as an unusually focused and hardworking student.

He first taught Jordan when he was a junior in high school, at a time when Jordan was already beginning his acting career and appearing on HBO’s 'The Wire'. Because he was balancing school with professional filming, teachers and administrators had to create a plan to ensure he could keep up with his studies while working.

One memorable moment occurred when Jordan became fascinated with a monologue from 'Camelot' that explored themes of leadership, responsibility, and power. Gonzalez recalled Jordan expressing admiration for the character King Arthur, which the teacher later reflected might symbolize the “kingly presence” Jordan carries today.

Gonzalez also emphasized the importance of Jordan’s collaboration with Coogler. He compared their creative partnership to the iconic relationship between Martin Scorsese and Robert De Niro.

Looking at Jordan’s achievements, Gonzalez told PEOPLE, “I’m not surprised by any of this. The sky is the limit for this guy.”

Coaches, administrators, and classmates remember Michael B Jordan’s character and leadership

Other figures from Jordan’s high school years also recall his dedication and strong character. Roger Leon, now superintendent of Newark Public Schools, met Jordan when he was principal of University High School.

Leon said Jordan’s "love for basketball was comparable to his love of the work that he does in the arts. That passion has always been a driving force for who he is.” He continued, “Even then, the compassion, the focus, the energy — the spirit by which he approached everything — was remarkable. He gave his all to whatever he was doing.”

Leon concluded, “It was incredible to witness someone so young understand what takes many people years to figure out. He understood his role in whatever he was doing, and he committed himself 100 percent to the assignment.”

Basketball coach Kennis Fairfax saw that same discipline on the court. Fairfax said, “Michael worked as hard in the gym as he did in the classroom and on stage. He was always focused, always locked in.”

Former teammate Prophet Kates described Jordan "as always focused. You could tell he had a vision for himself even back then.” During a difficult period when Kates’ father suffered a stroke and later died in 2016, Jordan checked in through FaceTime calls to offer support.