Viola Davis, who stars in the Ben Affleck-directed film Air about the early days of Air Jordan, has opened up about what she learned about Michael Jordan’s mother, Deloris Jordan, and her role in protecting her son’s “legacy.”
The EGOT-winning actor’s role in the film comes after MJ asked Davis to play his mother in “Air,” Affleck revealed to The Hollywood Reporter in a profile posted Thursday.
Davis, in an interview with the publication, reflected on the importance of motherhood and Deloris Jordan’s ability to fight for her son.
“Mothers are the most important figures in anyone’s life, so I was very flattered and deeply moved when I was asked to play Michael’s mother,” said Davis.
“I know Michael Jordan, but I didn’t know that Deloris brokered this deal to get him a huge stake in the shoe and in turn protect his son’s legacy. I wanted to know more about this woman who had the strength and courage to fight for her son’s worth,” she continued.
Davis noted that he was drawn to the project because Deloris Jordan had the makings of “an incredible woman”.
“For Deloris to have this perspective and progressive vision, holding her own in the negotiation room — which I know can be the hardest part of the job — makes her an incredible woman,” Davis said.
Photo by Steve Kagan/Disney General Entertainment Content/ABC Photo Archives via Getty Images
Davis’ thoughts on Deloris Jordan come after Affleck noted that her character only had one line in the film at the time of the NBA big’s request.
Davis’ husband, Julius Tennon, stars alongside her as the father of basketball legend James R. Jordan Sr. on “Air.”
The film, which will be released on April 5, will star Matt Damon as Nike employee Sonny Vaccaro, Affleck as Nike co-founder Phil Knight and Chris Tucker as Jordan Brand VP Howard White.
