Grappling with legal troubles and a career at crossroads, Marvel actor Jonathan Majors was recently celebrated with Perseverance Award at a Hollywood event.
- Jun 23, 2024
AceShowbiz - Jonathan Majors, the acclaimed actor known for his roles in "Creed III" and "Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania," found himself in the spotlight for a different reason at the Hollywood Unlocked Impact Awards. Honored with the Perseverance Award on June 21, Majors delivered a powerful acceptance speech that resonated with many, addressing the challenges and personal growth he experienced following his assault and harassment convictions.
Accepting the award at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, Majors reflected on his tumultuous year, marked by a court-ordered domestic violence intervention program. He poignantly conveyed his emotions, stating, "As a Black man in the criminal justice system, I felt anger. I felt sadness, hurt, surprise."
Majors continued, "When they snatched me up out of my apartment in handcuffs, I didn't feel like all that. I didn't feel like Jonathan Majors... I felt like a little scared, weak boy." Despite support and evidence in his favor, he highlighted the hardships faced due to his identity.
Throughout his speech, Majors was candid about his flaws, acknowledging, "We live in a world where men, Black men in particular, are propped up as either superheroes or supervillains. But I've come to realize, me personally, I ain't none of that. I'm imperfect. I have shortcomings, I acknowledge them." He also emphasized his faith, which he claimed had been both "tested and strengthened" by his experiences.
The actor took a moment to express gratitude to his family and several prominent figures in the industry, including Will Smith, Tyler Perry, and Whoopi Goldberg, for their unwavering support. He also delivered a heartfelt message to his girlfriend Meagan Good, saying, "I love you with all my strength, with all my heart."
Despite the setbacks in his career, which included being dropped from major projects and agencies, Majors remains committed to his craft. He recently secured a role in the upcoming revenge thriller "Merciless," directed by Martin Villeneuve.
Reflecting on his journey, he shared, "Perseverance means persistence in doing something despite difficulty or delay... I've seen that darkness in myself, and what I've learned is that when you catch a glimpse of light, you run as hard and as fast as you can towards it."
The event, hosted by Tiffany Haddish, also honored other notable figures like Christian Louboutin, Fat Joe, and Cardi B. When Hollywood Unlocked announced Majors as an honoree, they noted his resilience and determination to regain the respect of his peers and the industry.
Majors concluded his speech with a note of encouragement for others facing their own trials, "I receive this award not just as an acknowledgement that I have persevered, but as a command to be there for others and to help them win if their trials come."
