Lionsgate unveiled a preview of the Michael Jackson biopic “Michael” on Monday, shedding light on some aspects of one of the most awaited films of 2026 while leaving numerous questions unanswered.
Originally announced in 2022, the film directed by Antoine Fuqua and featuring Jaafar Jackson, the late pop icon’s nephew, portrays Michael Jackson’s transformation from obscurity to global fame. Initially set for an April 2025 premiere, the release was postponed multiple times due to reshoots, with Fuqua’s intention to address the sexual abuse allegations against Jackson reportedly leading to significant changes in the movie’s conclusion.
Amid rumors of modifications to the finale and uncertainties about including Jackson’s legal battles in the film, the involvement of Jackson’s family members in the production remains ambiguous. Actor Colman Domingo, who plays Joe Jackson, mentioned that Michael’s children, Paris and Prince Jackson, supported the film. However, Paris Jackson refuted claims of her involvement on set in a subsequent Instagram post.
Similar to other music biopics, concerns about estate influence and selective portrayal of artists’ lives have arisen. Jackson’s estate has a history of legal actions to control depictions of the singer, including disputes with the creators of the MJ Live tour and the documentary “Leaving Neverland.”
Despite behind-the-scenes challenges, the potential success of “Michael” remains high, with industry projections suggesting it could be a breakout hit in 2026, possibly crossing the billion-dollar mark at the box office. The genre’s success often hinges on the subject’s fame, indicating that Michael Jackson’s name alone could attract a substantial audience for the film.
