Viola Davis Reveals What She Didn’t Know About Michael Jordan’s Mom Before ‘Air’

Viola Davis, who stars in the Ben Affleck-directed film “Air” about the early days of Air Jordan shoes, spoke about what she learned from Michael Jordan’s mother, Deloris Jordan, and her role in protecting “her son’s legacy”.

The EGOT 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 characters in anyone’s life, so I was very flattered and deeply moved to be asked to play Michael’s mother,” Davis said.

“I know Michael Jordan, but I had no idea that Deloris brokered this deal to give 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 the courage to fight for the value of her son.

Davis noted that she considered the project because Deloris Jordan had the characteristics of an “incredible woman”.

“For Deloris, having that insight and progressive vision, holding her ground in the negotiating room — which I know can be the hardest part of the job — makes her an incredible woman,” Davis said.

Davis’ thoughts on Deloris Jordan come after Affleck noted his character had a line in the movie when the NBA great was asked.

Davis’ husband, Julius Tennon, acts alongside her as the father of basketball legend James R. Jordan Sr. in “Air.”

The film, which is slated for release on April 5, will also star Matt Damon as Nike employee Sonny Vaccaro, Affleck as Nike co-founder Phil Knight and Chris Tucker as vice president of Jordan Howard White brand.