The highly anticipated biopic Michael, centered on the life of pop icon Michael Jackson, unveiled its first trailer today following a turbulent production timeline.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua, known for action-driven films such as Training Day and The Equalizer, the project features a screenplay by three-time Oscar nominee John Logan (Gladiator, The Aviator)
Jackson is portrayed by his nephew, Jaafar Jackson, with Colman Domingo starring as the singer’s father, Joe Jackson. The cast also includes Miles Tester, Nia Long, and Laura Harrier.
Filming wrapped in May 2024, but the release date shifted multiple times—from an initial April 2025 premiere to October 2025, and finally to April 2026—due to reported reshoots in June 2025.
Early rumors suggested the film might be split into two parts, though the new trailer confirms a single feature.
Producer Graham King addressed the film’s approach to Jackson’s complex legacy: “Michael’s life was complicated.
We aim to humanize but not sanitize his story, presenting the most compelling and unbiased narrative possible in one film, allowing audiences to form their own conclusions.”
The project has faced scrutiny over its handling of sexual abuse allegations against Jackson, which gained renewed attention through the 2019 documentary Leaving Neverland.
Director Dan Reed, after reviewing an early script draft, criticized it as “startlingly disingenuous,” claiming it downplayed the accusations and portrayed Jackson solely in sympathetic interactions with children.
Jackson’s daughter, Paris Jackson, has publicly distanced herself from the film. In a recent Instagram statement, she clarified: “I read one of the first drafts and gave notes on what felt dishonest. When those concerns weren’t addressed, I moved on. This isn’t my project.”
Despite the controversy, the Jackson estate has expressed support for the production. Colman Domingo noted at a recent event that Jackson’s children, Paris and Prince, were “very much in support” of the film.
With a reported $155 million budget, Michael follows a string of music biopics with mixed commercial success, including the recent Bruce Springsteen film, which has earned just $31 million since its release.
Michael is slated for theatrical release in April 2026.