In a heartwarming reunion, Amanda Seyfried and Michael B. Jordan recreated their first onscreen kiss at the Palm Springs International Film Festival on January 6, 2024. More than two decades after they starred together in the soap opera All My Children, the actors shared a nostalgic moment that highlighted their enduring friendship.
Their reunion took place on the red carpet, where Seyfried playfully made kissing noises at Jordan as he was being interviewed by USA Today. Jordan responded by kissing her on the cheek and giving her a warm hug, expressing his affection for Seyfried in front of reporters. “I love this girl!” he declared, capturing the attention of fans and media alike.
Reflecting on Their Early Days
Seyfried recently reminisced about their time on All My Children, where they portrayed young love interests. “He was Reggie and I was Joni,” she shared in an interview with W Magazine. Their characters developed feelings for each other during Seyfried’s tenure on the soap from 2002 to 2003, while Jordan joined the cast in 2003 after his breakout role in The Wire.
“We were so young,” Seyfried recalled. “I think he was 15, and I was 16 or 17. Michael was always really good. It’s interesting to think back that long ago and to see that we’re both still as passionate as ever about what we do as actors. I like that trajectory.”
Challenging Stereotypes in Early Roles
Both actors have since evolved significantly in their careers. This season, they are also recognized as award contenders for their recent film projects, with Seyfried starring in The Testament of Ann Lee and Jordan taking on dual roles in Sinners. Jordan’s character on All My Children was initially played by the late Chadwick Boseman, who faced challenges with the role that he felt perpetuated racial stereotypes.
Boseman, who was let go after just one week for voicing concerns about Reggie’s character arc, later expressed his decision to speak out in a 2019 interview. “When I got it, I was like, ‘This is not part of my manifesto. This is not part of what I want to do,’” he said. Despite the challenges, he aimed to reframe the character’s portrayal. Jordan echoed this sentiment in a 2015 interview with GQ, stating, “No dad, no mom, a f—ing stereotypical black role in a soap opera.”
Jordan acknowledged that he entered the role with a fresh perspective, unaware of the groundwork laid by Boseman. “I was coming into All My Children fresh off The Wire—wide open, still learning,” he explained, noting that he was influenced by Boseman’s earlier stance on the character.
The recent reunion of Seyfried and Jordan not only highlights their personal connection but also underscores their growth as actors navigating the complex landscape of Hollywood. Their ability to reflect on their beginnings while embracing new challenges indicates a promising future for both in the entertainment industry.
