The much-anticipated Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, has officially set a new theatrical release date for 24 April, 2026. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film was previously slated to arrive in 2025 but has faced multiple delays. Lionsgate will release the movie domestically, while Universal will handle the international rollout. The project marks the feature debut of Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson’s real-life nephew, who plays the King of Pop.
According to sources, the production underwent 22 additional days of filming in June. Initially conceived as a sweeping portrait of Jackson’s life, the biopic has since been restructured. The current cut is expected to conclude with the release of Jackson’s breakout solo album Off the Wall in 1979 and his departure from The Jacksons. A report earlier this year noted that a planned third act dramatizing an accuser from Jackson’s later life had to be scrapped due to a prior legal settlement that forbade such portrayals.
Insiders tell The Hollywood Reporter that a follow-up film covering the post-1979 chapter of Jackson’s career is already in development. That portion of his life includes some of the most iconic moments in music history, such as the release of Thriller in 1982 and genre-defining hits like “Billie Jean” and “Beat It.” Jackson passed away in 2009 at age 50.
The ensemble cast includes Colman Domingo as Jackson’s father Joe, and Nia Long as his mother, Katherine. Other cast members include Miles Teller, Laura Harrier, Kat Graham, Larenz Tate, and Derek Luke. The film is produced by Graham King, along with longtime Jackson estate figures John Branca and John McClain. The screenplay is written by John Logan.
At CinemaCon last year, early footage from Michael was previewed to an enthusiastic industry crowd. Producer Graham King revealed that the film would feature 30 songs. Lionsgate’s motion picture chair Adam Fogelson spoke at this year’s CinemaCon about the excitement surrounding the project. “Ever since we debuted some early Michael footage at CinemaCon last year, it’s been crystal clear how much global interest and enthusiasm there is,” said Fogelson.
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