The journey of Michael Jackson, one of the world’s most iconic musical figures, to the big screen is taking longer than anticipated. Initially slated for an October release this year, the film “Michael,” directed by Antoine Fuqua, faces another postponement and is now set to hit theaters in 2026. The driving force behind this shift is the project’s ambitious scope, with a runtime potentially exceeding four hours. Lionsgate, the studio handling distribution, is strongly considering splitting the biopic into two parts. This approach aims to preserve the depth of the pop king’s story, ensuring no key moments are sacrificed, with Jaafar Jackson, the singer’s nephew, starring as the lead.
Turning “Michael” into a two-part cinematic event reflects the complexity of the artist’s life and career. From his early days with the Jackson 5 to the controversies and final years before his death in 2009, the film promises a comprehensive exploration. Lionsgate has committed an estimated $155 million budget to the production, a hefty sum for a musical biopic, signaling its high stakes. The Jackson family and the artist’s estate are directly involved, lending authenticity while adding layers of narrative and legal challenges that have impacted the timeline.
‘MICHAEL’ Part 1 & Part 2 are reportedly both set to release in theaters in 2026.
— The Hollywood Handle (@HollywoodHandle) April 7, 2025
(Via: https://t.co/mKcCOlRPKZ) pic.twitter.com/NRsTIE1EcP
Antoine Fuqua, celebrated for films like “Training Day” and “The Equalizer,” directs this endeavor, with a screenplay by John Logan, known for “Gladiator” and “The Aviator.” The script aims to balance Jackson’s triumphs with his personal struggles, and splitting the film into two installments emerged as a solution to avoid condensing critical events. The initial cut neared four hours, prompting the studio to rethink its strategy and prioritize a fuller storytelling experience.
Scope of an epic undertaking
Crafting a biopic about Michael Jackson is no small feat. With over 400 million records sold worldwide, his legacy spans generations, but his life’s highs and lows demand a nuanced portrayal. Lionsgate, alongside Universal Pictures for international distribution, is betting big on this project. The idea of releasing two films within the same year, possibly months apart, has gained traction, drawing inspiration from recent successes like “Wicked,” which also adopted a two-part format.
The substantial budget underscores the film’s scale. A significant portion has been allocated to securing rights to over 30 of Jackson’s iconic songs, including “Thriller,” “Billie Jean,” and “Beat It.” These tracks, pivotal to pop culture, will anchor the movie, recreating legendary performances and career-defining moments. Jaafar Jackson’s casting as his uncle adds a personal touch, with the 28-year-old bringing both physical resemblance and artistic talent honed through extensive preparation.
Production hasn’t been without hurdles. Principal photography wrapped in May last year, but script revisions and reshoots, particularly for the third act covering Jackson’s later years, delayed the original timeline. What started as an April debut this year shifted to October, and now the 2026 target allows further refinement. Lionsgate remains optimistic, viewing “Michael” as a potential landmark in the musical biopic genre.
Production details and stellar cast
Boasting a robust ensemble, “Michael” features actors poised to bring the Jackson family and key figures to life. Colman Domingo, an Oscar nominee for “Rustin,” plays Joe Jackson, the driving force behind the family’s rise. Nia Long portrays Katherine Jackson, the supportive matriarch, while Miles Teller takes on John Branca, Jackson’s longtime lawyer. Laura Harrier, Kat Graham, and Larenz Tate round out the cast as Suzanne de Passe, Diana Ross, and Berry Gordy, respectively, all pivotal in the singer’s journey.
Jaafar Jackson’s casting has been a highlight. Making his film debut, he embodies Michael with a striking likeness, recreating iconic looks like the “Thriller” jacket and signature dance moves. Released stills of Jaafar in character have sparked excitement, showcasing his dedication to capturing his uncle’s essence. At just 9 years old, Juliano Krue Valdi steps into the role of young Michael during the Jackson 5 era, adding depth to the portrayal of the singer’s formative years.
Fuqua’s direction leans into a raw, unflinching style, aiming to cover not just the successes but also the scandals that shadowed Jackson’s life, such as the 1990s abuse allegations. The supporting cast, including portrayals of Jackson’s siblings, enhances the family dynamic central to the story, with additional actors yet to be fully revealed rounding out this ambitious lineup.
- Key cast members:
- Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson
- Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson
- Nia Long as Katherine Jackson
- Miles Teller as John Branca
- Laura Harrier as Suzanne de Passe
Legal and narrative challenges
Portraying Michael Jackson’s life involves navigating sensitive territory. His later years were marred by controversies, notably the 1993 abuse allegations from Jordan Chandler’s family. Though acquitted in a 2005 trial, these incidents remain divisive. The involvement of Jackson’s estate, co-producing the film, complicates how these events are depicted, as the family has consistently upheld his innocence.
Early script drafts tackled the Chandler allegations head-on, but estate input led to revisions. Reshoots for the third act, completed recently, softened the approach to minimize legal risks and align with family perspectives. These changes inflated costs and pushed back the release, yet they also paved the way for the two-part structure, offering space to address the full arc of Jackson’s life more thoughtfully.
Lionsgate collaborates with Universal Pictures internationally and Kino Films for Japan, a vital market for Jackson’s legacy. Launch logistics, including IMAX bookings, factor into the 2026 delay, as the studio aims for a rollout that maximizes commercial reach and awards-season buzz. The extended timeline reflects a careful balancing act between creative vision and practical demands.
Lionsgate’s high-stakes gamble
Following a tough year with box-office disappointments like “Borderlands” and “The Crow,” Lionsgate sees “Michael” as a redemption opportunity. The studio is banking on replicating the triumph of “Bohemian Rhapsody,” which grossed over $910 million globally and won four Oscars. Producer Graham King, who also helmed the Queen biopic, brings proven expertise to this venture, raising expectations for both critical and financial success.
Splitting the film mirrors a Hollywood trend, with projects like “Dune” and “Wicked” leveraging multi-part releases for richer storytelling and higher returns. For Lionsgate, the risk is steep, but the reward could be transformative, given Jackson’s worldwide appeal and the enduring power of his music. The 2026 delay, while a setback for eager fans, offers time to polish a project poised to dominate theaters.
The studio anticipates “Michael” could outshine its recent slate, positioning it as a contender in the 2026 awards race. With a meticulously crafted narrative and a soundtrack of timeless hits, Lionsgate aims to deliver an experience that honors Jackson’s legacy while appealing to a broad audience.
Production timeline and outlook
The road to “Michael” has been winding. Filming kicked off in 2023 after years of rights negotiations and family approvals. By May 2024, principal photography concluded, but post-production demands shifted the schedule. Here’s a look at key milestones:
- 2019: Graham King secures rights for a Jackson biopic.
- 2022: Lionsgate greenlights the film, with Fuqua attached as director.
- 2023: Shooting begins, with Jaafar Jackson cast as the lead.
- 2024: Filming wraps, followed by script tweaks and reshoots.
- 2025: Latest delay announced, targeting a 2026 debut.
Anticipation runs high. Lionsgate executives have hinted that “Michael” could be the studio’s biggest release ever, fueled by early buzz from set photos and updates. Jaafar Jackson’s performance, praised in previews, adds to the intrigue, with his preparation seen as a bridge between past and present.
Cultural and commercial resonance
Michael Jackson’s impact is unparalleled, with 13 Grammys, 39 Guinness World Records, and a legacy that spans decades. The film will revisit milestones like the “Billie Jean” moonwalk and the groundbreaking “Thriller” video, blending nostalgia with fresh appeal. Featuring over 30 songs, it’s set to captivate longtime fans and introduce younger viewers to his genius.
Globally, Jackson’s draw remains strong. As one of history’s top-selling artists, his fanbase stretches from the West to Asia, with Japan a standout market via Kino Films. IMAX screenings promise an immersive spectacle, boosting box-office prospects. A two-part release extends the marketing window, keeping audiences engaged throughout 2026 and potentially doubling revenue.
Behind the scenes, Fuqua’s intense style pairs with Logan’s acclaimed writing, crafting a narrative that tackles fame, media scrutiny, and personal trials. The Jackson family’s input, including Jaafar’s role and consultancy from relatives, ensures authenticity, while actors like Nia Long and Colman Domingo add emotional weight to the portrayal.
Project insights and trivia
The making of “Michael” reveals a meticulous process. Fuqua’s knack for gritty drama suits Jackson’s multifaceted story, while Logan’s scriptwriting pedigree promises depth. Notable tidbits include:
- Jaafar Jackson trained for months to master Michael’s dance and vocal style.
- Costumes replicate exact outfits from concerts and videos.
- Third-act reshoots added millions to the budget, partly funded by the estate.
- Jackson 5 scenes draw from rare archival footage.
This attention to detail, coupled with a powerhouse team, positions “Michael” as a standout in the evolving landscape of musical biopics.
A defining moment for biopics
Musical biopics are thriving, with “Rocketman” and “Elvis” proving the genre’s viability. “Bohemian Rhapsody” set a benchmark, and “Michael” aims to follow suit, leveraging Jackson’s singular influence. Its two-part format allows a thorough dive into his life, from stardom to struggles, setting it apart in a crowded field.
The wait until 2026 tests fans’ patience but heightens anticipation. With a gifted cast, iconic music, and top-tier creators, “Michael” could redefine the biopic genre, delivering a cinematic tribute to a legend that resonates across generations.
