Hailee Steinfeld Says ‘Sinners’ Role Helped Her Connect w/ Her Half-Black Grandfather’s Legacy: ‘I Never Dove Into That’

Hailee Steinfeld

Hailee Steinfeld Says ‘Sinners’ Role Helped Her Connect w/ Her Half-Black Grandfather’s Legacy: ‘I Never Dove Into That’

Hailee Steinfeld says playing Mary in “Sinners” was more than just a role — it was personal.

“I was so struck by the first words that come out of her mouth — the strength, the grief, the loss,” she said, reflecting on Ryan Coogler’s script. “There wasn’t a single line I didn’t feel clear on. It was all there.”

Steinfeld shared that her performance was deeply shaped by exploring her own identity. “Part of my research was looking inward,” she explained. “My grandfather was half-Black, and I never dove into that as deeply as I did for this role.” The process sparked meaningful family conversations. “I wish he was here to see the movie and answer the questions that came up.”

Mary’s relationship with Stack, played by Michael B. Jordan, was also a standout. “Even in the smallest moments, you feel what forever could look like,” she said. “Their love is forbidden, but becoming vampires lets them finally be together.”

Steinfeld called the experience transformative, saying Mary pushed her beyond her comfort zone: “I’m so proud of this. It’s the most beautiful cinematic experience I’ve been part of.”

What are your thoughts on Hailee reconnecting with her roots?