Michael Jackson Biopic Update: Film to Highlight Late Singer's 'Very Complicated Life'

The people behind Michael shared what the fans should expect from Michael Jackson's upcoming biopic.

With Michael's nephew Jaafar Jackson as the lead star, Michael shared a first glimpse of the musical biopic during CinemaCon 2024. The first look was offered before its scheduled release in theaters on April 18, 2025.

"Michael" Unveils First Look

On Wednesday, April 10, the CinemaCon 2024 attendees saw an Antoine Fuqua-directed musical biopic.

Lionsgate Motion Picture Group chair Adam Fogelson called Michael a "simple man" with a "very complicated life." He then hinted at the movie's plot, which would delve into that private life while presenting public performances.

Michael producer Graham King also attended the event at the Caesars Palace stage, telling the crowd (via People), "When you consider Michael Jackson's extraordinary life, his career triumphs, personal challenges, his artistry, musical legacy, his story is certainly one that's worthy of a cinematic event presentation. When you mention his name, everyone has an opinion... Generations of moviegoers will come together to experience an inside look into one of the most prolific artists that ever lived."

Apart from the plot, Jaafar's performance has also been one of the main reasons why the public wants to see the film.

Jaafar is the son of Michael's brother, Jermaine.

The biopic, however, has received divided opinions from fans and critics.

"Michael" Receives Mixed Reaction

Prior to the release, Michael has been the center of reports as the public thought its script would be a huge problem.

Leaving Neverland director Dan Reed told Variety that he found the draft of the biopic, "startlingly disingenuous."

"Jackson is only ever seen caring for children with childhood cancer, or dancing with a little girl in a wheelchair, or tucking up multiple little boys, mostly his nephews, at sleepovers," he said. "It feels like the creators of the movie have been stuck in a room with John Branca and just told what to write."

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the film said King "stepped out of the creative" process to retell Jackson's complicated life.

The producer himself also said he made the film "to humanize but not sanitize and present the most compelling, unbiased story."

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Michael Jackson