The official trailer for Michael, the long-awaited biopic centered on the life and legacy of Michael Jackson, has officially arrived — offering audiences their most revealing look yet at one of the most ambitious music biopics in recent years.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua, Michael goes beyond a greatest-hits retelling of Jackson’s career. The newly released trailer leans into a more intimate and grounded portrayal, exploring the cost of fame, the pressure of global superstardom, and the man behind the music. From his early days as the breakout lead of the Jackson 5 to his rise as a once-in-a-generation solo artist, the film positions itself as a character-driven portrait rather than a surface-level celebration.
The film stars Jackson’s real-life nephew Jaafar Jackson in the title role, marking his feature film debut. A musician himself, Jaafar was cast following a reportedly extensive, two-year audition process. His selection was publicly supported by the Jackson family, including Katherine Jackson, who said he “embodies” Michael. Jaafar has also spoken openly about the responsibility of portraying his uncle, calling the opportunity an honor.
The trailer underscores that Michael will spotlight both the spectacle and the solitude — iconic performances paired with quieter moments that shaped Jackson offstage. The film is set to feature more than 30 of Jackson’s songs, weaving his music directly into the narrative rather than treating it as background.
Written by John Logan, the biopic is produced by Graham King, alongside John Branca and John McClain. King previously produced Bohemian Rhapsody, one of the highest-grossing music biopics of all time.
After multiple delays — including reports of an initial cut exceeding three-and-a-half hours and additional photography tied to creative adjustments — Michael is now officially set to hit theaters and IMAX worldwide on April 24, 2026. Lionsgate will handle domestic distribution, while Universal Pictures oversees international markets, excluding Japan.
The film boasts an expansive ensemble cast portraying figures from Jackson’s personal and professional life. To see the full cast breakdown, click here.
The trailer’s release follows a surge of momentum around the project, including the debut of a new poster, updates to the film’s official website, and renewed conversation after a rumored Grammys trailer premiere failed to materialize. While no trailer aired during the ceremony, a brief TV spot did surface during a commercial break, further fueling anticipation.
According to the official synopsis, Michael will trace Jackson’s journey from prodigy to visionary, ending around his departure from the Jackson 5 and the launch of his solo era with Off the Wall in 1979. A second film is reportedly already in development, expected to cover the Thriller and Bad eras.
With an estimated $155 million budget, deep family involvement, and one of the most recognizable catalogs in music history, Michael is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched theatrical releases of 2026.