Michael Evans Behling’s portrayal of Jordan Baker on The CW’s ‘All American’ has captivated audiences since the show premiered in 2018. Fans love his complex character arc, witnessing Jordan evolve from a seemingly privileged jock into a young man grappling with identity, responsibility, and his place in the world. But what initially drew Behling to this role?
In an interview about Jordan Baker’s character development on Entertainment Weekly, Behling revealed that he connected with Jordan’s vulnerability beneath the surface of his confident persona. “Jordan often puts up a front,” Behling shared, “but underneath it all, there’s a young man struggling with expectations and wanting to forge his own path.” This internal conflict resonated deeply with Behling, who appreciated the opportunity to explore the layers of a character beyond simple stereotypes.
Behling’s connection to Jordan extended beyond personality traits; he identified strongly with Jordan’s journey of self-discovery, particularly within the context of family dynamics and racial identity. Both characters grapple with navigating complex relationships with their parents and forging their own identities outside of pre-determined expectations.
The actor has spoken openly about the importance of portraying authentic representations of Black masculinity on screen. In a conversation with Variety, Behling emphasized his desire to showcase “the full spectrum” of Black male experiences, moving away from limiting stereotypes often seen in mainstream media. He saw Jordan as an opportunity to contribute to this movement, exploring themes of vulnerability, ambition, and the complexities of biracial identity within a compelling narrative.
By delving into these nuanced aspects of Jordan’s character, Behling brought depth and relatability to a role that could have easily fallen into tropes.
Where will Jordan’s journey take him next? Will he follow his athletic dreams or pursue a different path? What challenges await him as he continues to learn and grow? Keep watching ‘All American’ to see how Jordan Baker’s story unfolds and what other insights Michael Evans Behling brings to this compelling character.
