The film opens in the spring
Lionsgate, in partnership with Universal Pictures, will release the Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, to theaters and IMAX on April 24, 2026. The film is a cinematic portrayal of the life and legacy of one of the most influential artists the world has ever known, and stars Jackson’s real-life nephew, Jaafar Jackson, making his cinematic debut as The King of Pop.
The film tells the story of Jackson’s life beyond the music, tracing his journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of the Jackson Five, to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world.
Highlighting both his life off-stage and some of the most iconic performances from his early solo career, the film gives audiences a front-row seat to Michael Jackson as never before. This is where his story begins.
Michael also stars Mia Long as Katherine Jackson; Coleman Domingo as Joe Jackson; Miles Teller as John Branco, co-executor of the estate of Michael Jackson and Chairman of The Michael Jackson Company; Kat Graham as Diana Ross; and Kendrick Sampson as Quincy Jones. Dick Clark, Mick Jagger, Gladys Knight, Tito Jackson, Sheryl Crow, Jermaine Jackson, John Lennon, and others are also portrayed in the film.
Michael was directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by John Logan, and is expected to feature over two dozen songs from Jackson’s catalog.
Jackson’s famous Neverland Ranch was restored for the film. His historic Thriller video was recreated in the same California location as Jackson performed his Thriller Dance in 1983.
The film’s trailer has accumulated over 4.1 million views in the two weeks it’s been released.
