Jonathan Majors has opened up about the harrowing experiences of sexual abuse he faced as a child, shedding light on how those events have shaped his life and actions today. Speaking candidly during an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the 35-year-old actor revealed he suffered abuse at the hands of both men and women from the age of nine, coinciding with his father's abandonment of the family.
Majors explained the significance of his father's departure when he was just eight years old, stating, "My pop is a very beautiful man, very gentle, but had some qualities not complementary to family life. He was the best dad until he wasn't. And when he wasn't, he was gone." This absence left Majors vulnerable to abuse from those meant to care for him.
Addressing this trauma, he shared how he began to process these memories only recently, discussing them with his mother. "It's not even an issue, Mom. I just want you to know. And now we can all get busy and continue to connect and grow and learn from it, because it's something that's been in our family," he recounted their conversation. His mother expressed her sorrow for not being able to protect him during those formative years.
Reflecting on how his upbringing affected his behavior, Majors confessed, "I dealt with sexual abuse from both men and women from the time I was nine. From people who are supposed to look after you, in the absence of a father. I was f***ed up." This admission reveals the depths of his struggles as he confronts his past to gain insight and take responsibility for his actions.
Majors' challenging experiences didn't stop with childhood abuse. He found himself embroiled in controversy when he was arrested in New York City for allegedly assaulting his ex-girlfriend, Grace Jabbari, leading to his conviction for misdemeanor assault, recklessly causing physical injury, and harassment. Following the 2023 trial, where he faced the repercussions of his actions, the result has undeniably impacted his career, leading to the loss of roles, including his part within Marvel Studios.
Despite facing this setback, Majors expressed determination to rebuild his career. His latest film, Magazine Dreams, which follows the life of an aspiring bodybuilder, is set to be released on March 21, 2025, after previously screening to acclaim at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival. Majors acknowledged his frustrating situation when he stated, "There are no excuses, but by getting help, you begin to understand things about yourself."
Throughout this difficult period, Majors found solace and support from his fiancée, actress Meagan Good, who he became engaged to in November 2024. Their relationship has served as a source of healing as he continues to process his trauma and attempt to garner forgiveness from himself and others.
Majors also emphasized the importance of therapy, noting, "There were days when it was like, ‘Is this real?’ It’s a heartbreak like I’ve never experienced, and it just compounded and compounded.” He has been actively participating in domestic violence programs and working with his pastor to address the emotional scars inflicted by his childhood trauma.
Jonathan expressed his commitment to moving forward, saying, "Learn, metabolize, [and] grow" as he navigates through the latest chapter of his life. He is currently exploring potential scripts, including one for a superhero film, highlighting his quest for reinvention.
The tumultuous experiences of Jonathan Majors serve as both cautionary tales and inspiring journeys of overcoming trauma. The actor demonstrates vulnerability and the willingness to confront painful truths, proving to the world his strength amid adversity. His resolve to move forward from his past is clear, as he focuses on self-discovery and healing.
Majors’ story stands as a beacon of hope for others facing similar struggles, showcasing how acknowledging one’s past can lead to personal growth and change. The future for Jonathan Majors may still be uncertain, but his commitment to continuing his acting career and seeking redemption remains steadfast.