The highly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic Michael has been rescheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on April 24, 2026, shifting from its original October slot. The film will debut in standard theaters and IMAX formats simultaneously.
Lionsgate will handle domestic distribution, while Universal Pictures oversees international release territories excluding Japan, where Kino Films will manage distribution. Directed by Antoine Fuqua (Training Day) with a script by John Logan (Gladiator), the biopic stars Jaafar Jackson in a breakout performance as his iconic uncle. Academy Award-winning producer Graham King (Bohemian Rhapsody) leads the production.
The official synopsis promises an intimate portrayal of Jackson’s meteoric rise to global superstardom, examining both the artist’s creative genius and his complex legacy as the undisputed King of Pop.
Despite Lionsgate CEO Jon Feltheimer’s May 2025 suggestion of a potential 2026 delay, the production team completed reshoots following principal photography (wrapped May 2024) to refine the film’s substantial initial cut. Early creative discussions had considered splitting the story into two parts. With a reported $155 million production budget, this ranks among the most ambitious music biopics to date.
The star-studded supporting cast features Colman Domingo and Nia Long as Jackson parents Joe and Katherine Jackson, with Miles Teller as attorney John Branca. Historical music industry figures come to life through Larenz Tate’s Berry Gordy, Laura Harrier’s Suzanne de Passe, and Kat Graham’s Diana Ross. Additional portrayals include Jessica Sula as La Toya Jackson, Liv Symone as Gladys Knight, and Kendrick Sampson as Quincy Jones – who first mentored the young Jackson when the future legend was just 12 years old.
Photo Credit: Kevin Mazur
The Pop Blog general news and updates, mostly from press releases and conferences.