The highly-anticipated Michael Jackson biopic, simply titled “Michael,” is set to take the world by storm with its global release date announced for April 18, 2025. This extraordinary film will shed light on the life of the legendary King of Pop, capturing the triumphs, tragedies, and personal struggles that shaped his journey from a young artist to an international icon. As Lionsgate takes charge of domestic distribution and Universal handles overseas distribution, the stage is set for an unparalleled cinematic experience that promises to captivate audiences worldwide.
Excitement is in the air as Lionsgate recently revealed that production for “Michael” will commence on January 22. Spearheaded by renowned screenwriter John Logan and produced by Graham King, acclaimed for his work on “Bohemian Rhapsody,” this biopic promises to be a masterful portrayal of Michael Jackson’s complex persona and awe-inspiring talent. Adding to the star-studded team are the co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate, John Branca and John McClain, making this a project deeply rooted in the artist’s legacy.
Behind the scenes, a team of exceptionally talented individuals has assembled to bring the magic of Michael Jackson’s life to the silver screen. Dion Beebe, an Oscar-winning Director of Photography, takes charge of capturing the visual brilliance of the film. Accompanying him is Production Designer Barbara Ling, Costume Designer Marci Rodgers, Choreographers Rich + Tone, and renowned Makeup Artist Bill Corso, all of whom possess an impressive repertoire of accolades. Carla Farmer, an Oscar-nominated Hair Stylist, Sound and Music Supervisor John Warhurst, and VFX Supervisor Louis Morin round out the talented crew of over 420 individuals, each committed to making “Michael” an unforgettable cinematic experience.
The collaboration between Logan and King is a testament to their shared vision for capturing the essence of iconic figures. Having previously worked together on Martin Scorsese’s “The Aviator,” the duo’s reteaming promises to deliver a biopic that portrays Michael Jackson’s life authentically. King’s acquisition of the rights to the multi-Grammy winner’s music ensures a soundtrack brimming with the artist’s unforgettable hits. With Lionsgate securing the distribution rights in February 2022, the stage is set for the team to work their magic and transport audiences into the world of the King of Pop.
Introducing Jaafar Jackson
In a stunning casting decision, Jaafar Jackson, the 27-year-old nephew of Michael Jackson, has been chosen to portray the iconic musician. Blessed with a voice and dance moves reminiscent of his uncle, Jaafar has been honing his skills as a singer and dancer since the age of 12, even performing renditions of Sam Cooke and Marvin Gaye. His undeniable resemblance to Michael Jackson caught the attention of Graham King, who introduced him to director Antoine Fuqua. Fuqua, in an interview with EW, expressed his amazement at Jaafar’s uncanny ability to embody the essence of Michael Jackson, prompting him to proclaim, “It’s really uncanny.”
While biopics often face restrictions from estates and concerned parties, Fuqua emphasizes that “Michael” will present the artist’s narrative in a refreshingly honest light. He aims to showcase the full spectrum of Michael Jackson’s life, including the controversies that surrounded him. Fuqua’s intention is to present the facts as we know them, providing an intimate portrayal of the man behind the music, embracing the good, the bad, and the ugly. Graham King echoes this sentiment, expressing his honor in having the opportunity to tell Michael’s story and share a perspective that has yet to be explored.
The impact of Michael Jackson on the world of entertainment is immeasurable, and as Chair of the Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, Adam Fogelson recognizes this significance. He lauds Jackson as one of the greatest entertainers of all time, underscoring the importance of bringing his story to a global audience. With the upcoming release of “Michael,” audiences can expect to witness a portrayal of the man behind the music, unveiling a deeper understanding of his genius, his struggles, and his enduring legacy.
The upcoming biopic “Michael” promises to be a remarkable tribute to the incomparable Michael Jackson. With its diverse and accomplished team behind the camera, coupled with the casting of Jaafar Jackson as the titular character, audiences can anticipate a fresh perspective on the life of the King of Pop. As the film embarks on its production journey, the world eagerly awaits the unveiling of this cinematic masterpiece that will forever enrich the legacy of Michael Jackson.