Jonathan Majors Breaks Silence: Accountability, Abuse, and a Hollywood Comeback
Jonathan Majors, the actor whose star ascended rapidly before a 2023 assault trial derailed his career, is signaling a desire for a comeback. In a comprehensive interview with The Hollywood Reporter, his first since the trial, Majors addresses the fallout, acknowledges some accountability for his actions, and reveals his own history of childhood abuse.
While not directly addressing the details of the trial concerning accusations of assaulting his ex-girlfriend, Grace Jabbari, Majors speaks of taking responsibility for shaping his own narrative. "At some point there has to be accountability for writing your own story," he says. He explicitly rejects narratives of self-destruction and denial, framing his journey as one of personal growth and healing.
Majors was found guilty of misdemeanor assault and harassment after Jabbari accused him of striking her in the head, twisting her arm, and injuring her finger during an altercation in an SUV. He was acquitted on three other charges and sentenced to probation and a domestic violence intervention program. The conviction led to swift professional repercussions, including being dropped from several high-profile projects, most notably his role as Kang the Conqueror in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Beyond addressing the immediate aftermath of the trial, the interview delves into Majors’ personal history, revealing that he was a victim of childhood sexual abuse. He recounts beginning therapy after the trial, sharing the news with his mother, and reconnecting with his pastor, suggesting a process of deep introspection and healing. "There are no excuses, but by getting help, you begin to understand things about yourself," he states, indicating that his therapy has provided insight into his past and its impact on his present behavior.
Despite the shadow cast by the trial and conviction, Majors enjoys the support of several prominent figures in Hollywood. Whoopi Goldberg, who acted with Majors in the past, defends him, stating, "He was arrested. He went to court. He did what he was supposed to do. I’m not sure what else there is." This support, which extends to co-stars like Michael B. Jordan and Matthew McConaughey, forms a cornerstone of Majors’ potential return to the industry.
Jordan, who starred alongside Majors in Creed III, expressed his unwavering support, stating, "I would love to make Creed IV together — among other projects.” He further adds, "I’ve known and know him as someone who is continuously striving to improve as a human, a man and an actor. I believe in him." McConaughey echoes this sentiment, stating his belief in Majors.
Meagan Good, who began dating Majors months after his arrest and remained a constant presence during the trial, emphasizes her unwavering commitment to him. "People tend to move out of the way out of concern for their careers or their reputations," she observes. "To me, that’s not real love. If you know someone and if you believe in someone, it’s not conditional."
However, not everyone is convinced of Majors’ redemption. Maura Hooper, another ex-girlfriend of Majors, whose testimony of her own experiences of alleged abuse by him was included in the trial, expresses skepticism. "I don’t really care that his movie is coming out," she says. She questions the effectiveness of the domestic violence course Majors is required to complete and doubts that he has genuinely changed. "What do you get at the end of a 52-week domestic violence course? Do the victims get a debrief? How could I know if he’s changed? I don’t see redemption happening here."
Majors’ film, Magazine Dreams, which premiered at Sundance Film Festival two years ago, is slated for release on March 21st, marking his first significant project to surface since the trial. The film’s release could serve as a litmus test for audience reception and the viability of his comeback.
Looking ahead, Majors says he is focused on building a life with Good and raising his daughter, Ella. He also plans to expand his wellness business alongside Good. "Do I hope to make more movies? Absolutely. That is my intention. But that’s not my call. I don’t have a studio. And I’ve given up control," he says, acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding his future in Hollywood.
The interview paints a complex portrait of a man navigating a difficult period in his life. While acknowledging past failings and engaging in therapy, Majors is attempting to reclaim his narrative and pave the way for a future that may or may not include a return to the heights of his previous success. His comeback hinges on a combination of personal growth, public perception, and the continued support of influential figures within the industry. The release of Magazine Dreams and his actions moving forward will undoubtedly be closely watched as he attempts to rebuild his career and reputation.
