On April 24, 2026, audiences around the world were invited to relive an iconic era in pop history with the release of Michael, the long anticipated biopic about Michael Jackson.
This film, directed by Antoine Fuqua, takes us through Michael Jackson’s life from his early days in the Jackson 5 up to the Bad tour. Unlike previous portrayals of the beloved Jackson’s life, this film stands out for its deep involvement from Jackson’s family. Michael’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson, takes on the role of his uncle, a casting choice that has drawn much attention– especially considering Jaafar has zero prior acting experience and delivers more than an exceptional performance for this role. With Jaafar playing Adult Michael, rising 12 year old star Juliano Krue Valdi plays young Michael. Several members of the Jackson family participated in the production of this film, offering insight into Michael’s professional and personal world. The production also brought in collaborators who had worked with Jackson during his career, including veteran dancers and choreographers who helped create his signature performance style.
In its first week in theatres, Michael has sparked some mixed reactions. Some say that the film softens or dismisses controversial aspects of Jackson’s life, while others argue it offers the closest and most authentic portrayal yet, given his family’s involvement.
As with any figure as famous and world renowned as Jackson, it’s nearly impossible to have the full factual picture, regardless of whether you were there at that time. His life was lived under intense public scrutiny, yet still parts of it remained deeply private.
Part of what makes Michael’s story so complex is the contrast between his public image and his private struggles. Born into a family already in the spotlight, he faced pressure long before his solo career began.
Throughout his life, Jackson received criticism about his appearances (even from his family) and persistent speculation about his skin condition, vitiligo– misconceptions that followed him for decades.
Yet, in the midst of this open criticism, his musical talent remained undeniable, earning him a level of fame few to no artists have ever reached.
The film also raises questions about the pressures of fame– particularly for someone who has never had the chance to choose a life outside the spotlight– and what happens behind closed doors because of this pressure.
Michael Jackson’s story highlights the complicated relationship between celebrity, public perception and personal identity.
At the height of his career, Jackson’s global influence was unmatched, with a fan base that spanned across continents and generations.
Controversial or not, Michael Jackson remains one of the most influential figures in modern music, and the film attempts to capture both his artistry and the legacy he left behind.
For many viewers, Michael offers a chance to experience, or re-experience, the rise of an iconic pop star whose impact continues to shape music today.
Sources:
https://ew.com/michael-jackson-biopic-release-date-cast-trailers-11947849#:~:text=When%20does%20Michael%20come%20out,Colman%20Domingo%20and%20Miles%20Teller.&text=Randall%20Colburn%20is%20a%20writer,Ringer%2C%20and%20many%20other%20publications.&text=Allison%20DeGrushe%20is%20a%20timely,has%20previously%20appeared%20on%20Distractify.&text=Antoine%20Fuqua’s%20Michael%20Jackson%20biopic,including%20criticism%20from%20Paris%20Jackson.
https://michael.movie/
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11378946/