2023 has truly been a notable year for Michael B. Jordan, to say the least. Coming off the third instalment in the successful Creed film franchise—which Jordan had a hand in producing and directing—the American actor is starring in his debut campaign for Calvin Klein. Shot by renowned photographer duo Mert and Marcus, the campaign is fronted by Michael B. Jordan and Aaron Taylor-Johnson alongside the return of Calvin Klein’s global faces Jennie Kim, Kendall Jenner and FKA Twigs.
“Mert and Marcus were amazing, they are an iconic duo with a clear vision.”
The campaign is in-line with its spring/summer 2023 collection, and continues the Calvins or nothing concept. The campaign aims to embody confidence and celebrate ambition through self-expression and authenticity, with elevated portraits from each of the ambassadors. Donning the new Calvin Klein 1996, Athletic and Modern Cotton Performance, Jordan portrays the result of individual excellence through hard work and dedication to the grind, a standard everyone should aim to strive towards. Jordan marvels at the unequivocal efficacy of the campaign, stating: “Mert and Marcus were amazing, they are an iconic duo with a clear vision. I felt I was in good hands”. He reminisces at the initial moment he got the news, emphasising his excitement to work with a brand that felt “natural and authentic” for him.
As for what this campaign means to him personally, he shares: “I’ve wanted to work with Calvin Klein for a long time. When you look back at the history of advertisements, Calvin Klein has had some iconic billboards. To be a part of that history is pretty remarkable.” It seems effortless and cool is second nature to Jordan, with some of his past inductions including Time’s ‘100 Most Influential People of 2020’, People’s 2020 ‘Sexiest Man Alive’ and New York Times’ ‘25 Greatest Actors of the 21st Century’.
“I’ve wanted to work with Calvin Klein for a long time, it is pretty remarkable to work with such an iconic brand.”
“I definitely attribute my success and individuality to the people I surround myself with”, remarked Jordan. He also highlights the similarities between the sport of boxing and life, emphasising on the importance of mental strength, endurance and even foresight. “It encompasses all the different parts of being a human. I take what I’ve learned from boxing into different parts of my life.”
With Creed III now out in theatres, the attention has shifted to what’s next in-store for the accomplished actor. While little can be shared at the moment, one thing is clear: this is but the beginning of Jordan’s journey with Calvin Klein. The new spring 2023 collection is available in-stores and on Calvin Klein’s website.
