Lionsgate has officially set the global release date for the highly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic, “Michael,” starring Jaafar Jackson as the legendary King of Pop. The movie is set to hit theaters in the United States on April 18, 2025, with Universal handling overseas distribution.
Production on the film, directed by Antoine Fuqua and scripted by John Logan, kicked off on January 22, as announced by Lionsgate today. The biopic, produced by Graham King, the mastermind behind “Bohemian Rhapsody,” delves into the complex life of Michael Jackson, showcasing both his triumphs and tragedies, personal struggles, and creative genius.
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As Fuqua stated in an interview with EW, “It’s uncanny how much he’s like Michael … sounds like him, dances like him, sings. It’s really uncanny.” Fuqua expressed his excitement about Jaafar’s portrayal, emphasizing the spiritual connection he felt with Jaafar and the natural ability to emulate Michael.
While many biopics face challenges in navigating the portrayal of controversial aspects of an artist’s life, Fuqua is committed to presenting Michael Jackson’s story “as we know it,” addressing both the positive and challenging aspects. Fuqua mentioned in the same interview, “Just to tell the facts as we know it, about the artist, about the man, about the human being. You know, the good, bad and the ugly.”
Graham King, the producer, shared his honor in telling Michael’s story, stating, “I’m so honored to tell Michael’s story. It’s been a long journey, and I’m excited for the film to show audiences around the world a perspective of Michael that they’ve never seen.”
Adam Fogelson, Chair of the Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, expressed eagerness for audiences worldwide to experience the film’s theatrical release next year. He noted, “Michael Jackson was inarguably one of the greatest entertainers of all time. His impact on music, video, art, fashion, culture – and so much more – was extraordinary and is still profoundly relevant.”
The biopic, titled “Michael,” is not only set to showcase the highs of the King of Pop’s musical career but also to explore the controversies surrounding his personal life and the circumstances leading to his untimely death in 2009.