Viola Davis reveals the hilarious story behind her viral dress rip while celebrating Michael B. Jordan's 2026 Actor Award win.
- March 17, 2026
AceShowbiz - Viola Davis opened up about an unexpected wardrobe malfunction during her enthusiastic celebration of Michael B. Jordan winning the Actor Award at the 32nd Annual Actor Awards on March 1, 2026.
The Oscar-winning actress, aged 60, admitted on The Tonight Show that she accidentally tore her dress in a moment of excitement while reacting to Jordan’s victory. Jordan received the award for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role for his portrayal in Ryan Coogler’s vampire drama Sinners.
Viola Davis described the incident candidly, saying, “I did rip my dress open, but it’s all good!” Her lively reaction was captured on camera and quickly spread across social media, showcasing her genuine joy and energy.
During the award presentation, Davis displayed her love for theater by referencing a line from August Wilson’s 1984 play Joe Turner’s Come and Gone. Upon opening the winner’s envelope, she exclaimed, “You are shining, Harold Loo-!” before correcting herself to announce Jordan’s name. The actor then embraced his co-star Delroy Lindo, who originally portrayed Harold Loomis on Broadway in 1988, before taking the stage to accept his award.
Davis was clearly thrilled, audibly cheering “Oh! Oh! Oh!” as Jordan approached the podium. She then warmly hugged him and handed over the trophy, cementing a memorable moment between the two stars.
Reflecting on her spirited behavior during her interview with Jimmy Fallon, Davis joked that she was “that auntie at the party that’s had one too many beers and just shows her ass too many times.” She also likened herself to an overenthusiastic parent at a soccer game, saying referees might warn her to calm down to avoid disqualification.
Meanwhile, Michael B. Jordan’s acceptance of the award was a proud moment for many, and Davis has expressed admiration for his career and future prospects. In a recent Variety interview, she praised him as “an incredible human and an incredible leader,” highlighting his new ventures into directing and his potential to elevate African American filmmaking.
Following the event, Davis shared that she and her husband Julius Tennon had been “laughing for two days” over the viral clip capturing her exuberant reaction and the accompanying dress mishap.
The night showcased not only Jordan's achievement but also Davis’s genuine enthusiasm and support for her fellow actor, making the ceremony a memorable occasion for attendees and viewers alike.