Few entertainers in the world have left a legacy as powerful and influential as Michael Jackson. His music, his unmatched dance style, and his cultural impact reshaped the global entertainment industry for generations. Now, Hollywood is preparing to explore his extraordinary life in one of the most anticipated upcoming biographical films simply titled Michael, slated for release in April 2026.
With an acclaimed director on board, a star-studded cast, and an official endorsement from the Jackson estate, the film promises an intimate and cinematic journey through the life of the man the world knows as the King of Pop.
Below is a complete, in-depth guide to the movie’s release date, actors, plot expectations, director, production team, and much more.
Official Release Date: When is the Michael Jackson Biopic Coming Out?
After years of anticipation and production delays, the Michael Jackson biopic Michael is scheduled to hit theaters on April 24, 2026.
Originally, the film was targeting an April 2025 release. Principal photography wrapped in May 2024, but Hollywood’s industry-wide SAG-AFTRA strikes halted progress for months. The studio later added additional shoots and refinements, resulting in a final move to the 2026 slot.
This extended timeline signals the enormous scale of the project and the studio’s determination to deliver a definitive portrayal worthy of Michael Jackson’s iconic status.
With a global fanbase spanning generations, analysts expect the film to be among the biggest box-office releases of 2026.
Cast of the Michael Jackson Biopic: Who is Playing Who?
One of the most exciting aspects of this film is the announcement of its lead actor. The casting choices combine fresh talent, family authenticity, and seasoned performers—creating enormous buzz among fans and critics.
Here is the full confirmed cast list:
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
| Jaafar Jackson | Michael Jackson |
| Juliano Krue Valdi | Young Michael |
| Miles Teller | John Branca |
| Colman Domingo | Joe Jackson |
| Kat Graham | Diana Ross |
| Kendrick Sampson | Quincy Jones |
| Nia Long | Katherine Jackson |
| Laura Harrier | Suzanne de Passe |
| Joe Gillette | Steve Rubell |
| Larenz Tate | Berry Gordy |
| Jessica Sula | La Toya Jackson |
Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson
The casting of Jaafar Jackson, Michael’s own nephew, has become one of the most talked-about decisions in Hollywood. The son of Jermaine Jackson, Jaafar bears a striking resemblance to his late uncle and has been praised for his vocal ability and dance skills.
What makes his casting even more remarkable is that this marks Jaafar’s acting debut, yet insiders report that he delivers an eerily authentic performance. His personal connection to the Jackson family adds an emotional layer to the role that few other actors could replicate.
Supporting Cast Highlights
- Colman Domingo, fresh off acclaimed performances in Euphoria, Rustin, and The Color Purple, will portray Joe Jackson, Michael’s father—a complex figure whose influence has long been part of the star’s story.
- Miles Teller, known for Whiplash and Top Gun: Maverick, plays John Branca, Michael’s long-time attorney and one of the key figures in shaping the performer’s business legacy.
- Kat Graham will step into the role of Diana Ross, a close friend and early mentor of MJ.
- Kendrick Sampson portrays Quincy Jones, the legendary producer behind the groundbreaking albums Off the Wall, Thriller, and Bad.
- Nia Long joins as Katherine Jackson, Michael’s beloved mother and emotional anchor throughout his life.
- Larenz Tate stars as Berry Gordy, founder of Motown Records, the label that launched the Jackson 5 into stardom.
The diversity, talent, and authenticity of this ensemble cast have raised expectations for a powerful portrayal of Michael Jackson’s world—both personal and professional.
Director, Writer, and Creative Team: Vision Behind the Film
Discover the making of a king.
— Michael (@michaelmovie) November 6, 2025
MICHAEL – in theaters April 24, 2026. pic.twitter.com/mTRwVxrGIY
Directed by Antoine Fuqua
Helming the biopic is Antoine Fuqua, widely respected for his dynamic and emotionally charged filmmaking style. Fuqua is known for directing major hits such as:
- Training Day
- The Equalizer trilogy
- The Magnificent Seven
- Southpaw
- Olympus Has Fallen
Fuqua’s reputation for crafting raw, character-driven narratives makes him a fitting choice to explore Michael Jackson’s dramatic life, from early challenges to global triumphs.
Screenplay by John Logan
The script is written by John Logan, a three-time Academy Award nominee. His writing credits include:
- Gladiator
- Hugo
- Skyfall
- Rango
- The Aviator
- Alien: Covenant
Logan has experience in epic storytelling and biographical material, making him well-equipped to craft a nuanced portrayal of Michael’s journey.
Cinematography by Dion Beebe
Bringing the visual experience to life is Oscar-winning cinematographer Dion Beebe, known for:
- Collateral
- Memoirs of a Geisha
- Edge of Tomorrow
Beebe’s mastery of color, lighting, and texture is expected to give Michael a rich aesthetic reflecting the 1970s, ’80s, and ’90s—the decades when Jackson shaped global pop culture.
Music by Lorne Balfe
Music plays a central role in Michael Jackson’s story, and the responsibility falls to Lorne Balfe, renowned for crafting powerful scores. His recent work includes:
- Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning
- Black Widow
- The Lego Batman Movie
- The Wheel of Time
While Balfe will create the official score, the film is expected to feature many of Jackson’s original songs, offering audiences a nostalgic and emotional experience.
What Will the Michael Jackson Biopic Cover?
While the studio has not released a full plot synopsis, insiders suggest the film will span several decades of Michael’s life—from his childhood with the Jackson 5 to his reign as the most influential pop star in history.
Expected themes include:
1. Early Family Life and Rise to Stardom
The biopic is likely to explore Michael’s upbringing in Gary, Indiana; the disciplined environment created by Joe Jackson; and the journey from local talent shows to Motown superstardom.
2. The Jackson 5 and Solo Career Takeoff
Audiences can expect dramatizations of the early hits, the breakout success of the group, and Michael’s transition into a solo megastar.
3. The Thriller Era and Global Dominance
The 1980s marked a turning point in music history. Jackson wasn’t just successful—he became a cultural phenomenon.
Key moments may include:
- The creation of Thriller, the bestselling album of all time
- The Moonwalk debut
- MTV breakthroughs
- Record-shattering world tours
4. Personal Struggles and Complexities
The filmmakers have hinted at a balanced portrayal that addresses both triumphs and controversies. Using factual records and perspectives approved by the Jackson estate, the movie may explore:
- Michael’s battles with media scrutiny
- Personal trauma
- Health issues
- The pressures of fame
5. Lasting Legacy and Final Years
Fans can expect a tribute to Jackson’s humanitarian work, influence on dance and fashion, and the unmatched legacy he left behind before his passing in 2009.
Why This Biopic Matters
Michael Jackson’s life story has been the subject of countless documentaries, books, and TV segments, but Michael (2026) is positioned as the first major Hollywood biopic backed by the Jackson family estate.
This gives the film access to Michael’s original songs, private archives, and personal insights rarely seen by the public.
The film is expected to:
- Introduce Michael’s story to a new generation
- Offer deeper clarity on events long debated in media
- Celebrate his artistic genius
- Humanize the superstar behind the global icon
With blockbuster talent behind the camera and a cast deeply committed to authenticity, the movie has the potential to become the definitive on-screen portrayal of Michael Jackson’s life.
Anticipation and Early Industry Buzz
Even before its release, the biopic has generated tremendous excitement. Film critics expect it to become:
- A major awards contender
- One of 2026’s highest-grossing films
- A significant cultural moment for music and film lovers alike
Jaafar Jackson’s transformation has already gone viral on social media, and behind-the-scenes images hint at a remarkable level of detail and respect poured into the production.
Final Thoughts
The Michael Jackson biopic set for April 24, 2026, is shaping up to be one of the most important and emotionally powerful musical films of the decade. With a stellar creative team, an incredibly talented cast, and rare access to the King of Pop’s music and legacy, the film promises a cinematic experience that celebrates the brilliance, humanity, and impact of one of the greatest performers in history.
For fans around the world, Michael will be more than a movie—it will be a tribute, a story of triumph and struggle, and a reminder of why Michael Jackson’s influence remains unmatched.