Home / Arts and Entertainment / Michael B. Jordan Mentors Ali Actor
Michael B. Jordan Mentors Ali Actor
7 Nov
Summary
- Actor Jaalen Best relied on Michael B. Jordan's guidance.
- The role required intense physical preparation and recovery.
- Lonnie Ali approved Best, sensing his heart resembled Muhammad's.
The eight-episode series "The Greatest," now streaming on Prime Video, chronicles Muhammad Ali's journey to becoming a heavyweight champion. Actor Jaalen Best, who stars as Ali, revealed the significant support he received from executive producer Michael B. Jordan. Jordan's own experience portraying Adonis Creed provided Best with a relatable perspective on the intense physical demands of boxing roles.
Best highlighted the crucial role of recovery, including regular massage therapy, in enabling him to perform daily. The casting process itself was extensive, lasting 18 months. Ultimately, Ali's widow, Lonnie, played a key part in the final selection, traveling to Louisville to meet Best. She approved him, stating he possessed a heart akin to Muhammad's, recognizing a deeper connection beyond physical resemblance.
The series explores the relationships and convictions that shaped Ali's life both inside and outside the ring. "The Greatest" also features Omari Hardwick and Dana Gourrier as Ali's parents, and Giovanni Ribisi as trainer Angelo Dundee, among others. This marks Best's most significant role to date, following previous work on "Magnum P.I." and "All American: Homecoming."
