He wasn't into politics, he explained, didn't really know the issues. I'm just going to quote the whole thing here: Dear Mom, Michael Jordan was born on February 17, 1963, in Brooklyn, New York, one of James and Deloris Jordan's five children. (opens in new tab)She even makes an appearance inThe Last Dance, unlikeJordan'sex-wife or current partner (opens in new tab). Director Jason Hehir talked about that on "The Jalen & Jacoby Aftershow" on Sunday night. Courtesy of Calvin Klein, photographed by Mert & Marcus, Courtesy of Calvin Klein, photographed by Mert and Marcus, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. "It removed it all for me and brought me a sense of relaxation, release, comfort a lightness," he said. Even the GOAT has to deal with his mom getting mad at him for how he presents himself. The couple was blessed with 5 kids ( 3 sons & 2 daughters). Throughout the 1990s, Michael Jordan was the richest athlete in the world, raking in $78.3 million in 1997 alone. She attended a trade school in Alabama while James joined the Air Force, and then they reunited and married in 1957. James Jordan Sr. was born in Wallace, North Carolina, on July 31, 1936. Michael Jordan is back in the spotlight with ESPN's 10-part documentary,The Last Dance, and fans are more curious than ever about the basketball star's early roots. Years later, Ronnie was followed by four more children including Michael was born on February 17, 1963. The actor is pictured attending the European Premiere of Black Panther on Feb.8, 2018 in central London. Six NBA Championships, five MVP awards and 14 All-Star games across nearly 20 seasons with the Chicago Bulls and Washington Wizards is an easy way to sum it up. Born in 1959, Juanita is a few years older than Michael. It feels like everything is happening at the right time.". Michael Jordan's mom, Deloris Jordan, has played an integral role in his life. Salt in His Shoes: Michael Jordan in Pursuit of a Dream. Michael Jordan's Mom teaches him how to dunk and shoot hoops lmao#lebronjames #lakers #stephencurry #zionwilliamson #lameloball #lamelo #kevindurant #nba #ko. Demery's parole date has been set for August 6, 2023. "My business all out in the streets literally.". "I was like, my mama gon' have to see this. In the wake of a stirring debate sparked by LeBron James' recent claim that he's the greatest player "of all time," NBA fans have resurfaced a 2009 . Even the promise of getting to live in a home custom built by an NBA legend apparently isn't enough to entice buyers to spend $14.8 million to purchase Michael Jordan 's Illinois . If you would like to customise your choices, click 'Manage privacy settings'. Michael Jordan met Juanita Vanoy, his first wife, in Chicago in 1985, via a mutual friend. "That was Adidas," he said without hesitation. Life, family those are the same thing parents coming together as a husband and a wife providing strong values that when that child leaves your house, he can succeed. Hehir gave more detail about what it was like interviewing Jordan. "Hometown crowd. program. One of the first episodes of The Last Dance features his mom, Deloris Jordan, reading a letter that Michael wrote to her when he was playing college basketball at the University of North Carolina, humbly asking for money for postage stamps and his phone bill. Ysabel Jordan and Victoria Jordan were born on February 9, 2014. She welcomed her youngest daughter, Roslyn, while still living in North Carolina. Jordan's Bulls teammate, Dennis Rodman, had a plethora of tattoos. Visit our corporate site. In 1993, six of the club participants earned a trip to Kenya, Africa. Photographed by Mert & Marcus, this marks Jordan's first campaign with Calvin Klein. Jordan was not an ordinary player. She and her late husband, James Jordan Sr., passed their own work ethic onto their children, always encouraging them to dream big and never give up. Deloris Jordan, Michael Jordan's Mom, Delivers Message to NBA Moms: 'We Are Blessed'. Chicago Tribune, February 17, 2019. https://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/ct-spt-michael-jordan-deloris-jordan-nba-moms-20190217-story.html. Deloris Jordan is the mother of NBA great Michael Jordan. Deloris and James had been married since 1957, per the Chicago Tribune. According to legendary Bulls writer Sam Smith, Jordan has always been a little sensitive about his tattoo. In 2005, Deloris was honored for her work with the Clinton Global Initiative Award.Who knows how many children's lives Deloris has helped change? This is the inside tale of Michael Jordan's deep family history, back to Wilmington, North Carolina, down a tiny stretch of rural Highway 117, where five generations of Jordans came before him. Michael Jordan's house, exterior. National Women's History Museum. On Wednesday (March 1), Michael B. Jordan received a star on the Hollywood Walk of fame, where he was introduced by his Creed III co-star Jonathan Majors and Black Panther director Ryan Coogler. A Nike Executive Seeks a Family's Forgiveness for a 1965 Murder. Meanwhile, they welcomed their first child Jeffrey Jordan on November 11, 1988, shortly before exchanging . One of the first episodes of The Last Dance features Deloris reading a letter that Michael wrote her while he was attending the University of North Carolina. "Babe, I'm a little bit jealous, please delete," one commented. Donna Jordan is recognized as the mother of actor and producer Michael B. Jordan . 2 min read. Michael B. Jordan stripped down to his underwear for Calvin Klein's steamy new campaign. building a strong structure with index cards . Get viral NBA graphics, memes, rumors and trending news delivered right to your inbox with the Clutch Newsletter. According to WomensHistory.org, Deloris co-founded the Michael Jordan Foundation in 1989. ", A post shared by Calvin Klein (@calvinklein). The actor, producer and director unveiled photos from the campaign along with the caption, "The debut. They shared life ups and downs together for more than 3 decades. Not only is he starring in "Creed III," but he also directed the latest installment in the popular boxing movie franchise. Read in-depth about Michael Jordan Kids: Everything About Them >> Michael Jordan, World-Class Athlete. A progressive social reformer and activist, Jane Addams was on the frontline of the settlement house movement and was the first American woman to wina Nobel Peace Prize. Chicago - Alexander, Kerri Lee. It's out here,'" Jordan told Entertainment Tonight at the premiere of his new movie, "Creed III." Beyond miraculously defying the aging process, she touchingly read a letter from her son from college about affording the phone bill and postage stamps. By Kerri Lee Alexander, NWHM Fellow | 2018-2020. Unfortunately, that same year, Mrs. Jordans husband was murdered in his car. Michael Jordan, Jerry Krause shared more similarities than meets the eye. Michael might have skills for basketball, but Larry built things with his hands, and our oldest son was in ROTC and such a leader.". "It's somewhat embarrassing, but yet it's refreshing that I took the time to write a letter to say how much I love my mom and, you know, what I needed in college.". Sign up and stay up to date with our daily newsletter. We went to lunch, and then after dinner, I knew a lady at the library, so he stayed there and read some more. Published on January 3, 2019 01:30 PM. Jordan said the underwear ad and "Creed 3" were a "moment" for . The Last Dance premieres on ESPN on Sunday, April 19th at 9 pm ET. Victoria and Ysabel Jordan, 9. And by Jordan's side the entire time was his father, James Jordan Sr. During the first decade of his career, Jordan relied on the calming presence of his dad. No, Michael Jordan doesn't own Jordans Nike, Inc. does, and it's a very common misconception as the brand was named after the NBA player. Netflix owes us answers after that ending. CHARLOTTE, N.C. This story originally ran in the Chicago Tribune on March 29, 1992. In 1993, Deloris' husband James Sr.was murdered by two teenagers (opens in new tab)who stole his car. In 2009, Deloris added an international branch to the foundation to help fulfill her mission all over the world. Michael credits his parents with helping him to become so successful both on and off the court, but Deloris is more than just "Michael Jordan's mom" she's also a powerhouse of a woman in her own right. Because, again, no matter what we do with the kids at school, theyre going home, Deloris explained to NPR. Michael Jordan Wife. Michael B. Jordan revealed the first thinghe did when he saw the steamy images he took for his Calvin Klein underwear ad campaign. Getty His stellar performances on the court arena earned him names. Rumor has it that Jordan was usually pretty adamant that his family not come Jordan's many fans couldn't help but praise him with iconic nicknames. Deloris continues to speak publiclyin 2019, shespoke to mothers of NBA players (opens in new tab): "We are blessed to be a blessing. For more stories like this, including celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for theMarie Clairenewsletter. 0:05. I took him to work and made him stay in the car all day and read. Simon & Schuster, Inc. About the Author: Deloris Jordan. Accessed December 9, 2019. https://www.simonandschuster.com/authors/Deloris-Jordan/1671281. Michael B. Jordan said he called his mother about his underwear ad The actor's Calvin Klein underwear ad got praised by the netizens. Date Night With His Celebrity Son Blessed To Have A Michael B. Jordan As A Son Donna's son revealed his eating habit during the quarantine Get to know Michael's lifestyle and choices more closely Net Worth Trivia. Michael Jordan is by all accounts an NBA legend, having been inducted into the Hall of Fame and leading his former team, the Chicago Bulls, to six championship wins . Jordan's Mom Founded the James R. Jordan Foundation. I got my family here, they're watching the movie for the first time. While in New York, she became a bank teller and her husband trained to become a mechanic. In Brooklyn . Jan 2, 2018. She also founded the Kenya Women and Children's Wellness Center in Nairobi, Kenya, according to the National Women's History Museum. As his success began to grow, Deloris and Michael Jordan decided to find ways to give back to the community. Michael Jordan is back in the spotlight with ESPN's 10-part documentary, The Last Dance, and fans are more curious than ever about the basketball star's early roots.Long before Michael became one . You saw the clip in 92 and the Dream Team when he says Alright, no Isiah Thomas questions. And now its come full circle because heres a guy saying 'I dont even know what youre going to ask me, but go ahead. I wanted him to know I was always watching him. Although her brothers would often play basketball . NY 10036. Michael grew up playing basketball and other sports against his siblings. The couple quickly fell in love and dated for the next three years. Michael Jordan was asked if he had a shoe company he wanted to go with. Long before Michael Jordan's net worth skyrocketed from $350 million to $1.65 billion in 2018, according to Forbes, he and his wife, then-fiance Yvette Prieto, were hardly strapped for cash . On 17 th February 1963, Michael Jeffrey Jordan was born. Gantt had hoped that Jordan's name would help him defeat Helms, widely regarded as a virulent racist. In a Feb. 2018 . I've lost almost 300 games. By the end of his freshman year, Jordan was a household name, thanks to the game-winning shot he hit in the 1982 NCAA Championship game. James R. Jordan Foundation. Accessed December 9, 2019. http://www.jamesjordanfoundation.com/. Michael Jordan and Jerry Krause | ESPN, Tensions were high around the 1997-98 Bulls and many point the finger at GM Jerry Krause. Michael B. Jordan got candid about his new underwear. All rights reserved. So, whats it like to interview Jordan? Let me call her and be like, 'I'm sorry. #NBA #MJ #TheLastDance Subscribe to ESPN+ plus.espn.com/ Get the ESPN App: espn.com/espn/apps/espn Subscribe to ESPN on YouTube: es.pn/SUBSCRIBEtoYOUTUBE Subscribe to NBA on ESPN, 'Michael Jordan: Play Like a Pro' (hosted by Larry Jordan) 1992, Larry Jordan hosts this instructional video. Deloris still serves as president of the organization, which aims to provide a pathway out of poverty by empowering youth to achieve their full potential and by leveling the playing field so they can become successful human beings and productive contributors to society.. Calliet said Jordan regularly performedbicep curls, jump squats, leg lifts, barbell squats, walking push-ups and a multitude of ab exercises, among other exercises. Check out facebook.com/inallairness too., Before Michael Jordan became a household name in basketball he had Olympic dreams. Air Jordan. Vi, Yahoo, r en del av Yahoos varumrkesfamilj. Its somewhat embarrassing, but yet its refreshing that I took the time to write a letter to say how much I love my mom and, you know, what I needed in college., READ NEXT: Michael Jordans Wife Yvette Prieto Is a Proud Mom to Twins, Deloris Jordan, Michaels Mom: 5 Fast Facts You Need to Know, Please review our privacy policy here: https://heavy.com/privacy-policy/, Copyright 2023 Heavy, Inc. All rights reserved. The Foundation expanded internationally in 2009 and built the state-of-the-art Kenya Women and Childrens Wellness Centre to provide crucial medical assistance to the region. Well according to eldest sister, Deloris E. Jordan, being Michael Jordan's sister carries a weight that the public does not see and that not many people could bear -- including Deloris herself. Please also send me some stamps. The death hit the whole family hard; Michael temporarily retired from basketball mere months later (via ESPN). "Deloris Jordan." The brand released a series of signature black-and-white photos highlighting the "Black Panther" star's toned body while wearing the famous underwear. In Deloris' book, In My Family's Shadow, she talks about all the horrors she had to endure . New York: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2003. The Chicago Tribune reported that James Sr. spent the day at a funeral for a former co-worker and visited with friends later in the evening. ", The actor added that, much like the release of "Creed III," the Calvin Klein photos were "a moment. Her foundation also formed partnerships with elementary schools in the Chicago area, and in 2009 she established the James R. Jordan Foundation International in collaboration with other international organizations. Just ask Michael Jackson. The "Creed III . She currently lives in Chicago, Illinois. The last of Michael Jordan's children are identical twins who are only seven years of age. Interestingly, Larry and his younger brother, Michael, are never shown in the same shot on screen. I didnt look at them. Copyright IBTimes 2023. Her Marriage with Michael Jordan Began with Scandal. Deloris isalso the author of several books, including Salt in His Shoes: Michael Jordan in Pursuit of a Dream, Michaels Golden Rules, Did I Tell You I Love You Today? and Dream Big. She also penned Family First: Winning the Parenting Game,which outlines her seven principles of parenting: In 1989, she co-founded the Michael Jordan Foundation, and in 2000, she founded the James R. Jordan Foundation in Chicago in honor of her late husband, who was tragically slain in 1993. The actor's Calvin Klein underwear ad got praised by the netizens. The photos were shot by legendary photographers Mert & Marcus, and it was the first time he worked with the brand. "Creed III" also marks Jordan's directorial debut. The couple was separated for a brief period of time after high school as Deloris attended a trade school in Alabama, while James Sr. enlisted in the Air Force. Obviously, Michael Jordan is the focal point of "The Last Dance." Jordan was the star of the world in the 1990s, and his voice carries much of the documentary series. We, Yahoo, are part of the Yahoo family of brands. The Air Snout - A name that sounds like a missile. "And to be able to share that moment with my other actors, who are having a moment of their own as well, it just feels special. Michael might have skills for basketball, but Larry built things with his hands, and our oldest son was in ROTC and such a leader.. They are the type of men Michael Jordan's mother might have told him to stay away from. He said 11 months passed between the first and second interviews, and had a good story about how Jordan greeted him when they met back up. I wanted him to know I was always watching him. 24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events. After working with her son on this project for . Deloris serves as the president of the foundation that focuses on improving the lives of underprivileged children. MORE JORDAN: Michael Jordan, Jerry Krause shared more similarities than meets the eye. You can be as tall as you want to be in your thinking,'" Deloris told ESPN. program. Michael Jordans mom, Deloris Jordan, is a standout presence in ESPNs The Last Dance docuseries. Viewers are likely to catch more glimpses of this amazing woman on upcoming episodes of The Last Dance, airing on ESPN. "We thick out here tonight, and it feels good," Jordan said. I am sending you my account number so that you can deposit some money in my account. "I always told my children, 'Each one of you has special gifts, it's how you use them,'" she told ESPNin 2009. Michael B. Jordan's new steamy Calvin Klein ad has the internet in a chokehold and his "Creed" co-star Tessa Thompson's reaction couldn't be more perfect. "My business all out in the streets literally," he added. "Each one had a talent, but how they approached it was different from the others. While attending Charity High School, he met Deloris Peoples (born September 1941). "Saturday Night Live" took to the skies with a comedic take on Southwest Airlines holiday debacle while Michael B. Jordan made his hosting debut. One of the most compelling figures in ESPN docuseriesThe Last Danceis Michael Jordan's motherDeloris Jordan (opens in new tab). His brother Larry admitted it became clear that Michael had a different level of talent on the basketball court than anyone else in the family. The death devastated Michael Jordan, and two months later he retired from the N.B.A. Michael credits his family for his success,saying (opens in new tab), "They were hardworking people and they instilled that not just in me but in my brothers and sistersIt just became a part of my nature I always take a negative and turn it into a positivethat all came from my parents.". The tallness is within you. It's awesome.". "They were hardworking people and they instilled that not just in me but in my brothers and sisters," Michael Jordan told Good Morning America. 26. National Women's History Museum. Calvin Klein shared the steamy photos of Jordan on its Instagram page Monday. A . "I just know I got to introduce the movie. Three interviews with Jordan were shownin the first six episodes of the documentary series. Hertwo proudest moments of Michael? Jordan was very happy at the premiere because his family was there. . The two began dating and remained together for the next three years. While leaving for a doctor's appointment, Michael and his mother met a man who asked Jordan to try his hands at modelling. Michael might have skills for basketball, but [older brother] Larry built things with his hands, and our oldest son was in ROTC and such a leader.". On August 3, 1993, James' body was found in a swamp in South Carolina, while his . Mrs. Jordan has established multiple charities and has served as the President and Founder of the James R. Jordan Foundation for almost two decades. But it's a good club to be a part of," Jordan said at the time. Learn more about Jordan's parents and his relationship with his mother. They are Michael Jordan, born on February 17, 1963 (age 56 years), Larry Jordan, Deloris E. Jordan, Roslyn Jordan, and James Jordan Jr. 74 quotes from Michael Jordan: 'I've missed more than 9000 shots in my career. She was born in Rocky Point, North Carolina and attended Charity High School in Rose Hill, North Carolina. Jun 5th, 2022 . Michael Jordan's dad, James Jordan Sr., was tragically murdered by two teenage boys in 1993 (via Chicago Tribune). Please visit inallairness.com for Michael Jordan-era / NBA-history podcast episodes, blog posts and video highlights. Tell everyone I said hello and smile. Shesays (opens in new tab)her parenting style was simple, despite Michael's massive success: "I always told my children, 'Each one of you has special gifts, it's how you use themEach one had a talent, but how they approached it was different from the others. Love, Michael. She worked as a homemaker, then a bank clerk. I lusted in my heart for this man, and I'm asking you to cleanse my mind," another fan wrote. Im going to give you an honest answer, Hehir said. src="https://www.facebook.com/tr?id=674090812743125&ev=PageView&noscript=1"/>. In 1996, the Chicago Bulls team collaborated with the Jordan family to build a youth center to honor James Raymond Jordan Sr. after his death. She also opened the Jordan Institute for Families at the School of Social Work at Chapel Hill. Image Credit: Bei/Shutterstock. After high school, she moved to Alabama to attend a trade school, while Jordan Sr. joined the Air Force and moved to San Antonio, Texas. "We'd say, 'You have it in your heart. If it does not, its by his own choice.. The success of the Center inspired Mrs. Jordan to establish the James R. Jordan Foundation to provide more academic support for underprivileged children. . African American Literature Book Club. Which is way better than him saying 'I looked them over and lets go over this. She is a former high school counselor. "I started doing it recreationally and then started to realize how . Tried-and-True Tips for Women Business Owners, From a Trusted Small Business Banker, The 75 Best K-Dramas You'll Be Completely Hooked On, Selena Gomez Revealed Meryl Streep Is Joining 'Only Murders in the Building' Season 3, Sophia Brown on Joining the World of The Witcher: Blood Origin, 'Ginny & Georgia' Season 2: Everything We Know, The Cast of 'The Crown' Season 5: Your Guide. The tragedy was devastating for the whole family (Michael briefly retired from basketball before returning to the Bulls). While at a school basketball game in 1954, she met a fellow classmate on the basketball team named James Raymond Jordan Sr. Another added, "The first picture should've been the sexiest man alive cover lol.". 1. But Jordan declined. Katherines a Boston-based contributor at Marie Claire who covers fashion, culture, and lifestylefrom Clueless to Everlane to news about Lizzo. It feels like everything is happening at the right time. Shortly after her son was born, Mrs. Jordan and her family moved back to Wilmington, North Carolina. So, other than that, it's kind of business as usual. "I was like, my mamagon' have to see this," Jordan, 36, told Entertainment Tonighton the red carpet for the premiere of his new movie "Creed III" Monday. We played one year of varsity basketball together when I was a senior and Michael was a junior, and thats when his play just went to another level, Larry told ESPN. He effectively ended the NBA of the 1980s when he defeated Magic Johnson to capture his first NBA title in 1991. I knew I had to set the precedent. Let me call her and be like, 'I'm sorry. Deloris Jordan was born as Deloris Peoples in September of 1941. However, that didn't stop him from wanting to get his parents their dream home. It's out here.'". Michael B. Jordan revealed the first thing he did when he saw the steamy images he took for his Calvin Klein underwear ad campaign. When asked about his latest Calvin Klein underwear campaign, which featured him in revealing attire, Jordan handled the question like a pro. Let me call her and be like, 'I'm sorry. MLA - Alexander, Kerri Lee. Michael Jordan's son Marcus recently appeared on NBC's Today Show, where he talked about the six-time NBA Champion's competitive spirit when he and his siblings were younger. New York, Her son Michael would go on to become one of the most successful, and first billionaire basketball player in NBA history. Michael B. Jordan's underwear ad was so steamy that he felt compelled to apologize to his mom in advance over the viral snapshots. The duke also discussed his use of psychedelic drugs, which he said are like the "cleaning of a windshield" for him and helped "remove life's filters.". If you do not want us and our partners to use cookies and personal data for these additional purposes, click 'Reject all'. MJ & Pippen 2.0: Michael Jordan's Son is Reportedly Dating Scottie Pippen's Ex-Wife. Michael B. Jordan's stint with acting wasn't planned. Superman - If your basketball partner is as superfluous as superman Michael Jordan, then this name can be given to them. She attended a trade school in Alabama while James joined the Air Force, and then they reunited and married in 1957. MORE JORDAN: Michael Jordan, Jerry Krause shared more similarities than meets the eye. Michael B. Jordan talks 'Creed III,' his future in directing and more When asked about his thoughts surrounding the campaign, he told ET , "I was like, my mama gon' have to see this. In addition to her charity work, Mrs. Jordan is a New York Times Bestselling author, and serves on the board of the Jordan Institute for Families at the University of North Carolina School of Social Work. The 1993 murder of James Jordan, Michael Jordan's father, captured the attention of millions worldwide. Jordan said the underwear ad and "Creed 3" were a "moment" for him. Movement: Automatic Juanita, who had modeled in the past, worked as the executive secretary for the American Bar A You can change your choices at any time by clicking on the 'Privacy dashboard' links on our sites and apps. Deloris Jordan has imparted important wisdom on each of her children: I always told my children, Each one of you has special gifts, its how you use them,' she told ESPN. And that is why I succeed.', 'Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence wins championships.', and 'I can accept failure, everyone fails at something. Where I had to ask my mom to send my postage stamps., My Dad was always one of My Biggest inspirations ! '", He added, "My business all out in the streets literally.". ", "This was, like, a moment, you know? Deloris spoke about her motivation for working with young people during a 2007 NPR interview. I could see him from the bank window. Associated Press. Part of what makes The Last Dance so riveting is the unguarded comments from so many of the people involved, including Jordan. This bond would be shattered in July 1993 when James Jordan was murdered . Scottie Pippen's Son Is Making Moves On the Court, 'The Last Dance' Memes Are Giving Me Life. The ad came at a perfect time with his film, with Jordan calling both projects a "moment. It's out here.' Deloris Jordan was born as Deloris Peoples in September of 1941. Jordan, Deloris, and Kadir Nelson. My girlfriend is a step closer to leaving me every time she sees this," a third commenter added with multiple face with tears of joy emojis. ", WATCH 'THE LAST DANCE' ON ESPN+ (opens in new tab). This was filmed in 1992 and released (on VHS, here in Australia) in 1993. Michael B. Jordan is killing it in Hollywood. Vanoy and Michael were married from 1989 to 2006. Dis friends have said she referred to the doctor as the love of her life., She and Prince Philip strike up an unlikely friendship throughout the fifth season of 'The Crown.'. Even if Chicago felt little economic impact from the Bulls' success, you might . The James R. Foundation International was founded in 2009 with a number of partners including United States International University and Kenyas Ministry of Health and Education. The former bank teller, born in North Carolina and now living in Chicago, has spoken . 0 Rp 0; why does michael jordan's mom call him mr jordanspinning top toy 70s. All Rights Reserved. which is a definitive biography of MJ's life and covers Mr. Jordan's . Deloris watched her son become one of the most recognizable people in the world, but it was not always this way. But it was a tough age and I knew I had to set the precedent. Janelle Ash, Larry Fink. The former bank teller, born in North Carolina and now living in Chicago, has spoken openly about her superstar son, her life as a mother, her work as a philanthropist and author, and the tragicdeath of her husband. Jordan teased the moment on Good Morning America in April: My mom, she kept all my letters, Jordan said. Poet, dancer, singer, activist, and scholar, Maya Angelou is a world-famous author.