Jonathan Majors has quickly become one of the most captivating and versatile actors in Hollywood. With a relatively short but incredibly impactful career, Majors has already delivered memorable performances across a variety of genres. From indie dramas to blockbuster superhero films, his range and intensity are undeniable. Let's dive into the filmography of Jonathan Majors, exploring some of his most notable roles and the movies that have solidified his status as a rising star.

Early Career Breakthroughs

Before landing major roles in mainstream cinema, Jonathan Majors honed his craft in several smaller, independent films that showcased his raw talent and potential. These early projects were crucial in establishing him as a serious actor with a bright future. One of his earliest notable roles was in the 2017 miniseries When We Rise, where he played the younger Ken Jones, a prominent African-American gay rights activist. This role provided him with an opportunity to portray a character with depth and complexity, tackling themes of identity, struggle, and resilience. Majors brought a nuanced performance to the screen, capturing the emotional weight of Jones' journey and earning critical acclaim for his portrayal. His ability to embody the character's spirit and convey the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community during that era demonstrated his commitment to authentic and meaningful storytelling.

Another significant early role for Majors came in the 2018 independent film White Boy Rick. Although his screen time was limited, his presence was undeniable, adding to the film's gritty realism. He played a supporting character who was involved in the drug trade, showcasing a different side of his acting abilities. This role, while not as central as his role in When We Rise, was still crucial in expanding his range and demonstrating his versatility to casting directors. Majors proved that he could convincingly portray characters from diverse backgrounds and with varying motivations, setting the stage for more substantial roles in the future. These early roles, though less widely known, were foundational in shaping Majors' career and solidifying his reputation as a dedicated and versatile actor.

The Last Black Man in San Francisco (2019)

The Last Black Man in San Francisco is arguably one of Jonathan Majors' most critically acclaimed films. This poignant and visually stunning movie tells the story of a young man's quest to reclaim his childhood home in a rapidly gentrifying San Francisco. Majors plays Montgomery Allen, the best friend of Jimmie Fails (played by Jimmie Fails himself), and delivers a deeply empathetic and nuanced performance. The film explores themes of identity, displacement, and the meaning of home, resonating with audiences and critics alike. Majors' portrayal of Montgomery is both sensitive and powerful, showcasing his ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety and grace. The chemistry between Majors and Fails is palpable, adding depth and authenticity to their characters' friendship. Their scenes together are filled with quiet moments of understanding and support, highlighting the importance of human connection in the face of adversity.

Jonathan Majors brings a unique perspective to the role, infusing Montgomery with a sense of quiet observation and artistic sensibility. Montgomery is an aspiring playwright who documents the changing landscape of San Francisco, capturing the stories of those who are being left behind. This artistic pursuit mirrors Majors' own dedication to his craft, as he uses his acting abilities to bring marginalized voices to the forefront. His performance in The Last Black Man in San Francisco earned him widespread recognition and solidified his reputation as a rising star in Hollywood. The film itself was praised for its beautiful cinematography, heartfelt storytelling, and its exploration of timely and relevant social issues. It is a must-see for anyone interested in seeing Majors at his best and experiencing a truly unique and thought-provoking cinematic experience.

Da 5 Bloods (2020)

In Spike Lee's Da 5 Bloods, Jonathan Majors takes on the role of David, the son of Paul (played by Delroy Lindo), a Vietnam War veteran struggling with PTSD. This film is a powerful exploration of the lasting impact of war on both individuals and communities, and Majors' performance adds another layer of depth to the story. David accompanies his father and four other veterans on a journey back to Vietnam to find the remains of their fallen squad leader and a stash of hidden gold. The film delves into themes of trauma, brotherhood, and redemption, and Majors' portrayal of David is both supportive and complex.

Jonathan Majors navigates the challenges of playing a character who is trying to help his father cope with his demons while also dealing with his own personal struggles. David is a grounded and compassionate presence in the film, often acting as a mediator between his father and the other veterans. He is concerned about his father's well-being and tries to keep him from succumbing to his PTSD, but he also has his own limits. Majors brings a sense of vulnerability and strength to the role, making David a relatable and sympathetic character. The film also explores the strained relationship between father and son, as they grapple with their shared history and the legacy of the Vietnam War. Majors and Lindo deliver powerful performances that capture the complexities of this relationship, adding to the emotional weight of the film. Da 5 Bloods is a significant film in Majors' career, showcasing his ability to work with acclaimed directors and deliver compelling performances in ensemble casts.

Lovecraft Country (2020)

While technically a television series, Lovecraft Country is worth mentioning due to the significant impact it had on Jonathan Majors' career. In this HBO series, Majors plays Atticus Freeman, a young Black man who embarks on a journey across 1950s Jim Crow America in search of his missing father. The series blends elements of horror, science fiction, and social commentary, exploring themes of racism, identity, and family. Majors' portrayal of Atticus is both heroic and vulnerable, as he confronts both supernatural monsters and the very real horrors of racial discrimination.

Jonathan Majors delivers a captivating performance as Atticus, capturing the character's intelligence, courage, and determination. Atticus is a complex character who is grappling with his own identity and his place in the world. He is a voracious reader with a deep love of science fiction and fantasy, but he is also acutely aware of the dangers he faces as a Black man in America. Majors brings a sense of authenticity to the role, conveying the character's inner turmoil and his unwavering commitment to fighting for justice. The series also features a strong ensemble cast, including Jurnee Smollett and Michael Kenneth Williams, who deliver equally compelling performances. Lovecraft Country was praised for its bold storytelling, its exploration of important social issues, and its stunning visuals. It is a significant work in Majors' filmography, showcasing his ability to lead a series and deliver a nuanced and impactful performance.

Devotion (2022)

Devotion is a 2022 war film where Jonathan Majors stars as Jesse Brown, the U.S. Navy's first African American aviator. The movie recounts the true story of Brown's courageous service and the strong bond he formed with fellow pilot Tom Hudner, played by Glen Powell, during the Korean War. Majors delivers a powerful and moving performance, capturing the resilience, determination, and quiet dignity of Jesse Brown as he battles both enemy forces and the racial prejudices of his time. The film highlights the deep friendship that develops between Brown and Hudner, transcending racial barriers and demonstrating the power of human connection in the face of adversity.

Jonathan Majors brings a depth of emotion and authenticity to the role, portraying Brown as a complex and multifaceted character. He captures the internal struggles Brown faces as he strives to excel in a predominantly white environment, constantly proving his worth and overcoming the systemic racism that seeks to undermine him. Majors’ portrayal showcases Brown’s unwavering dedication to his duty and his fellow soldiers, as well as his vulnerability and his longing for acceptance. The film also explores the challenges faced by Brown’s wife, Daisy, played by Christina Jackson, who supports her husband through his difficult journey while also navigating the prejudices of society. Devotion is a testament to the courage and sacrifice of Jesse Brown and a powerful reminder of the importance of equality and understanding. It is a significant role for Majors, allowing him to showcase his dramatic range and his ability to embody historical figures with grace and respect.

Creed III (2023)

In Creed III, Jonathan Majors steps into the ring as Damian