Everything to know about the controversial Michael Jackson biopic (and what Paris Jackson thinks of it)

Everything to Know About the Controversial Michael Jackson Biopic

Lionsgate’s long-awaited biopic about Michael Jackson is set for release in April. Following the launch of its first trailer, interest in the project has grown rapidly, as audiences anticipate both its cinematic vision and the controversies surrounding it.

Cast and Creative Team

Jaafar Jackson, the late singer’s nephew, stars as Michael Jackson, supported by Colman Domingo and Miles Teller. The film is directed by Antoine Fuqua with a screenplay from Oscar nominee John Logan, while Graham King, known for producing Bohemian Rhapsody, leads production.

Origins of the Project

The film has been in development since 2019, when King first announced plans to adapt Jackson’s life story for the big screen. Since then, the project has drawn major Hollywood talent and considerable attention from fans and critics alike.

Controversies and Challenges

Production has faced scrutiny due to the lingering controversies from Jackson’s legal history, as well as criticism from his daughter, Paris Jackson.

Paris Jackson expressed concern about "the way her father’s life is being portrayed" and questioned whether the film could truly capture his complexity.

Story and Vision

The film, titled Michael, promises to explore the pop icon’s journey from child stardom in the Jackson 5 to his transformation into one of the most influential entertainers in the world.

The creators describe the movie as "tracing his journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of the Jackson 5 to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world."

Release Outlook

With its premiere scheduled for April, Michael aims to balance artistic portrayal with authenticity, offering a new cinematic look at one of music’s most complex legacies.

Author’s Summary: The upcoming biopic Michael combines star power and controversy, portraying Jackson’s extraordinary life while sparking debate over how truthfully it will depict the King of Pop.

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Entertainment Weekly Entertainment Weekly — 2025-11-08