Lionsgate has announced new release dates for its upcoming film Michael. The anticipated biopic of pop legend Michael Jackson directed by Antoine Fuqua, will now premiere on October 3, 2025. Originally slated for Easter weekend, the new release date positions Michael in the competitive awards season suggesting confidence from Lionsgate in the film’s potential as a serious contender. The film, which Universal Pictures will distribute internationally, stars Jaafar Jackson, the late singer’s nephew, in the lead role.
READ: Meet the Full Cast of the Michael Jackson Biopic, ‘Michael’…So Far
Michael explores the life of the King of Pop, examining both his musical triumphs and personal challenges. Written by John Logan and produced by Graham King—whose previous work on Bohemian Rhapsody led to major box office success and multiple Oscars—the film promises an in-depth portrayal of Jackson’s life. The extensive cast features Nia Long, Laura Harrier, Miles Teller, and Colman Domingo in prominent roles, with additional performances by Larenz Tate, Kat Graham, Jessica Sula, Liv Symone, Kendrick Sampson, KeiLyn Durrel Jones, and Kevin Shinick. Fuqua has noted that Michael will feature 30 of Jackson’s iconic songs, offering fans an immersive experience of his legendary music career.
During a panel at San Diego Comic-Con, Fuqua spoke about his personal connection to the project, explaining, “Michael’s music shaped my life and career. We want to explore both the artist and the man.” The biopic will hit theaters one week before Disney’s Tron: Ares, setting the stage for a competitive fall movie season. On the same day, Michael will go head-to-head with Miramax and Paramount’s Roofman, a crime thriller starring Channing Tatum.
Also in Lionsgate’s lineup is Good Fortune, a comedy written and directed by Aziz Ansari, which is now scheduled for release on October 17, 2025. Ansari stars as a struggling gig worker whose life is turned upside down by Gabriel, a well-meaning but inept angel portrayed by Keanu Reeves. The film’s cast is rounded out by Seth Rogen, who plays a wealthy venture capitalist, alongside Keke Palmer and Sandra Oh. The comedy was well-received when previewed at CinemaCon last spring, with audiences responding positively to the humor and unique storyline. Good Fortune is produced by Ansari along with Anthony Katagas and Alan Yang, adding to Lionsgate’s packed fall 2025 calendar.
With both Michael and Good Fortune hitting theaters within two weeks, Lionsgate is setting up for a significant season that aims to capture a wide range of audiences—from biopic fans to comedy lovers.