Tessa Thompson’ gives warm and witty tribute to Michael B. Jordan

Tessa Thompson admired Michael B. Jordan as she subtly honored him, while also making a humorous remark about her dating life at the 39th annual American Cinematheque Awards in Beverly Hills on November 20.

Taking the stage to celebrate her longtime co-star, the 42-year-old star reflected on their stong bond on-screen in the Creed film series, where they portrayed Adonis and Bianca Creed and off-screen as well. 

She opened with a playful jab at both their love lives, joking that their onscreen marriage has outlasted any real-life romance either of them has had.

"Mr. Jordan and I began our onscreen relationship playing soulmates, Adonis and Bianca Creed, over a decade ago,” she said.

“And for better or worse, it is to date the longest relationship that either of us has ever been in,” she said, drawing laughter from the audience. “That’s showbiz, baby.”

Men in Black: International actress went on to describe the unique bond she shared with the Sinners star, which they developed while filming, revealing that the pair even attended therapy sessions together in character, an experience she believes strengthened their friendship just as much as their performances. “I know my work husband extremely well,” she said.

The actress then shifted to a more emotional tone, praising Jordan’s character, work ethic, and warmth.

She recalled meeting him early in their careers and immediately recognizing his kindness and humility qualities, which she said have remained unchanged despite his rise to global stardom.

"He's still the same kind, humble, liable to hug someone when entering a room, strong and sensitive human being that he was many moons ago, when we met in a casting office somewhere in the valley, and someone said, ‘Now have chemistry,'" she expressed. 

Continuing, "You treat crew like a community. Everyone's seen and heard. You embody excellence without ego."