In a recent interview on the Sherri show, actress Tessa Thompson opened up about her close friendship with Michael B. Jordan, which spans over a decade. Their dynamic covers both professional collaboration and personal familiarity, centered around the “annoyingly not annoying” qualities Jordan exhibits. This affectionate contradiction illustrates the depth of their connection as they continue to work together on the Creed film series.
The Unique Dynamic Behind Their On-Screen Partnership
Thompson, who portrays Bianca Creed alongside Jordan’s Adonis Creed in the popular sports drama franchise spin-off from Rocky, described how years of joint filmmaking have forged a family-like rapport. She likened their relationship to that of “an old married couple,” highlighting the closeness that has naturally developed over time.
“We’ve been making these films for over 10 years together, so at this point we’re kind of like family, and we are like an old married couple,” Tessa Thompson told host Sherri Shepherd.
Method Acting Meets Couples Therapy to Enhance Authenticity
To maintain the genuine and complex chemistry their characters demand, Thompson revealed an unconventional rehearsal approach used during their latest project. The actors attended therapy sessions while fully inhabiting their roles as Bianca and Adonis Creed. This immersive technique aimed to enrich the authenticity of their onscreen relationship.
“We actually went to therapy together, but as Bianca and Adonis,” Thompson shared, highlighting the extraordinary lengths taken to maintain the authentic and complex onscreen chemistry that has defined the popular film franchise spin-off from the Rocky series.
The Surprising Challenge of Unexpected FaceTime Calls
Despite their deep connection, Thompson pointed out a modern habit of Jordan’s that occasionally causes frustration. She described how Jordan often initiates FaceTime calls without prior warning, a practice she finds “cute but challenging.” These surprise video chats frequently catch her off guard and unprepared to appear on camera.
“He will FaceTime you without warning you that he’s going to FaceTime you,” Thompson confessed with a laugh. Describing the habit as “cute but challenging,” Thompson admitted these surprise video calls often catch her unprepared.
“For whatever reason, I’m never. It’s not cute on my end… I’m not ready to be on FaceTime on a big screen with him.”
Handling Unplanned Digital Interactions and Their Significance
Thompson shared how she sometimes screens Jordan’s unexpected calls to prepare herself before answering, often responding with a casual “Oh, sorry, I was just…” She noted that Jordan is not alone in this approach, mentioning that fellow actor Colman Domingo also enjoys spontaneous video communications. While these moments can cause mild stress, Thompson views them as evidence of the authentic nature of their friendship.
For her, the willingness to pick up unannounced FaceTime sessions symbolizes a fundamental aspect of true friendship, reflecting a bond that transcends conventional social expectations.
How Their Professional Partnership Evolved into Lasting Friendship
This conversation offers a revealing look into how two high-profile actors balance intense method acting with everyday human interactions. Thompson’s insights demonstrate that beneath the demands of their work on a major sports drama film franchise, their relationship thrives on genuine quirks and personal idiosyncrasies. Their friendship is not only a foundation for successful storytelling but also a notable example of camaraderie formed through shared experiences over a significant period.
As their careers continue and new projects emerge, this enduring bond between Tessa Thompson and Michael B. Jordan will likely remain a cornerstone of their professional and personal lives.
