Michael B. Jordan Urges Hollywood To ‘Invest In Black Staff’

Michael B. Jordan wants more black staff in Hollywood.

On Saturday (June 6), Jordan attended a protest in Century City, Los Angeles. He was there to give a speech against police brutality and the inequalities in the entertainment industry, as well as support the Black Lives Matter movement. In his speech, the “Creed” star urged Hollywood to hire more black people.

“I want us to invest in Black staff,” Jordan said (via Variety).

“I’m proud to have an inclusion rider and all that good stuff, and I use my power to demand diversity, but it’s time the studios and agencies and all these buildings we stand in front of to do the same.”

Jordan also questioned the challenge to commit to hiring more black people.

“Where is the challenge to commit to Black hiring? Black content led by Black executives, Black consultants. Are you policing our storytelling as well?” he continued.

“Let us bring our darkness to the light. Black culture: the sneakers, sports, comedic culture that you guys love so much. We’ve dealt with discrimination at every turn. Can you help fund Black brands, companies, cultural leaders, Black organizations?”

Aside from talking about black hiring, Jordan encouraged many to exercise their right to vote in the elections. According to him, “voting has never been more important than it is today.”

In related news, director Josh Trank wanted a black Sue Storm for the “Fantastic Four” reboot. However, he received “a lot of pretty heavy pushback” after pitching the idea. Trank still helmed the film but regretted his decision five years later.

“When I look back on that, I should have just walked when that realization sort of hit me, and I feel embarrassed about that, that I didn’t just out of principle,” he said.

“Those aren’t the values I stand for in my own life; those weren’t the values then, or ever, for me. I’m somebody who always talks about standing up for what I believe in, even if it means burning my career out. I feel bad that I didn’t take it to the mat with that issue. I feel like I failed in that regard.”