NEWARK, New Jersey (WABC) — Newark is celebrating one of its own, actor Michael B. Jordan, who brought home his first Oscar for his performance in the movie “Sinners.”
In his speech Sunday night, Jordan acknowledged the Black Oscar winners who came before him, and also thanked his family, who was by his side.
Also at his side, in spirit, were the people at home in Newark, New Jersey, who cheered the actor on, all these years to Oscar gold.
Michael B. Jordan mania has lifted the famed Arts High School. The first performing arts school in the country has alumni that has won every major entertainment award, including Emmys, Tonys, Grammys, and now an Oscar.
RELATED | Michael B. Jordan’s Newark roots shine amid rise to Oscar nomination
Anthony Johnson has more from Newark.
The thunderous applause in Hollywood echoed in Newark to celebrate Jordan’s special moment on Sunday.
The now Oscar-winning actor graduated from arts in 2005.
“The kids that are coming up. I’m really big on the next generation,” Jordan said.
His success is inspiring today’s crop of Arts High drama students.
“Michael B. Jordan, he started from the same place we did,” one student said.
The future performers have pride knowing an Oscar winner walked the halls.
“Nothing is impossible. Not at all. Despite where I come from,” another student said.
Carl Gonzalez was Michael B. Jordan’s high school drama teacher. He recognized Jordan’s talent and gave him room to grow.
“I gave him time and space to be himself,” Gonzalez said.
Arts High’s mascot is a jaguar whose pride is running high.
“And it really makes us know that we’re doing the right thing here by our students. And two: they have the same opportunity,” said Arts High Principal Regina Sharpe.
It was a big weekend for the city as the Arts High woman and Shabazz High School boys team won state championships. That was topped off with another native son bringing home an Oscar.
“People that are from our community, a place like Newark and these communities, don’t believe in their mind that these things can happen. But this proof that it can,” Newark Mayor Ras Baraka said.
The city is now planning a day to honor Michael B. Jordan. The hope is he’ll be there for the celebration.
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