Seven new actors have been added to the cast of the upcoming Michael biopic, a collaboration between Lionsgate and Universal Pictures International. Larenz Tate, Kat Graham, Jessica Sula, Liv Symone, Kendrick Sampson, KeiLyn Durrel Jones, and Kevin Shinick will join the project directed by Antoine Fuqua.
Scheduled for release on April 18, 2025, the biopic stars Jaafar Jackson, nephew of Michael Jackson, making his screen debut as the pop icon. Nine-year-old Juliano Krue Valdi will portray Michael during his early Jackson 5 days. Produced by Graham King of GK Films and scripted by John Logan, the film aims to depict Jackson’s musical journey from his time with the Jackson 5 to his solo hits like “Thriller” and “Billie Jean.”
Michael promises to deliver a compelling portrayal of the iconic pop star, exploring his triumphs, struggles, and controversies. The film will delve into Jackson’s personal and public life, showcasing his creative genius and recreating his most memorable performances.
Larenz Tate portrays Motown Records founder Berry Gordy, with Kat Graham as Diana Ross, Jessica Sula as Michael’s sister La Toya, Liv Symone as Motown artist Gladys Knight, Kendrick Sampson as Quincy Jones, KeiLyn Durrel Jones as Jackson 5 confidante Bill Bray, and Kevin Shinick as American Bandstand host Dick Clark.
The cast also includes Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, and Miles Teller as lawyer John Branca. Other members, such as Jamal R. Henderson, Jayden Harville, Tre Horton, Jaylen Lyndon Hunter, Rhyan Hill, Judah Edwards, Joseph David-Jones, and Nathaniel Logan McIntyre, complete the ensemble portraying various Jackson family members.
Prince Jackson, Michael’s eldest son, is involved in the filmmaking process alongside producers Graham King, John Branca, and John McClain. Lionsgate will distribute the film domestically, while Universal Pictures International will handle international territories except Japan, which falls under Lionsgate’s distribution.
Michael is currently in production.