Michael B. Jordan Jokes re Career Pivot to Produce Anime Full-Time
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Post By
DJ Longers
- September 17, 2026
‘I Might Just Quit It All’: Michael B. Jordan Jokes re Career Pivot to Produce Anime Full-Time
LOS ANGELES — Fresh off a career-defining Oscar victory for his twin role in Ryan Coogler's Sinners, actor-director Michael B. Jordan has teased an unexpected future pivot. Walking away from live-action Hollywood stardom to dedicate himself entirely to making anime.
Speaking in a feature cover interview for Vogue magazine’s October issue, the 39-year-old star revealed he has multiple anime projects currently in early stages of development.
While reflecting on his relentless production schedule and upcoming plans for an extended break in 2027, the Creed actor offered a half-joking confession that instantly set social media alight.
"I might just quit it all and make anime the rest of my life," Jordan admitted, reflecting on his lifelong obsession with Japanese animation.
A Lifelong Otaku Influence
While the casual remark sent shockwaves through fan communities, Jordan’s passion for Japanese animation is well documented.
The actor has frequently cited Studio Ghibli’s Princess Mononoke as his favourite film of all time, while openly crediting iconic series including Dragon Ball Z, Naruto, Bleach, and My Hero Academia as major influences on his creative direction.
Jordan famously integrated signature anime visual language into live-action filmmaking during 2023's Creed III, incorporating distinct impact frames and kinetic fight choreography inspired by Hajime no Ippo and Dragon Ball Z into the film's climax.
He also previously stepped into animation production by partnering with Japanese studio TMS Entertainment to produce a Creed-branded anime short film released alongside the third installment in Japanese cinemas.
"I've been moving nonstop", Jordan reflected regarding his recent workload, which includes directing and starring in the upcoming reimagining of The Thomas Crown Affair. "Next year is probably when I'm going to do more reflecting and processing of all of this."
Burnout and Building an Animation Slate
Industry observers note that Jordan's comments reflect a broader trend of Hollywood A-listers seeking creative sovereignty outside the traditional studio machine.
Following an exhausting awards campaign that culminated in his Best Actor Academy Award win earlier this year, Jordan confirmed plans to step away from acting sets for most of 2027 to focus on his Outlier Society production banner.
Details surrounding the specific titles, formats, or animation studios involved in Jordan's upcoming anime slate remain under close wraps. However, sources close to Outlier Society indicate the slate includes both original concept IP and potential adaptations.
