Michael: All that you need to know about Michael Jackson's biopic

Iconic musician Michael Jackson's life and career are being adapted for the big screen. The film will be backed by Lionsgate and titled Michael. Perhaps one of the most controversial yet most successful singers of our times, Michael Jackson's biopic is set to chronicle his professional as well as personal life.

Stepping into the iconic shoes of the musician is Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson, who is the son of Michael's brother Jermaine Jackson.

From the release date to the cast, here’s everything to know about Michael.

Jackson’s 27-year-old nephew Jaafar is set to play him in the new movie. "It's incredibly exciting to watch Jaafar bring Michael to life," director Antoine Fuqua said in a statement to Variety.

"There was such a spiritual connection when I first met Jaafar, who has a natural ability to emulate Michael and such a great chemistry with the camera," he added.

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The first look of the film was shared by Jaafar on Instagram recently where the young actor could be seen striking Michael Jackson's iconic pose. The silhouette photo did not reveal his face but gave an impression of the young MJ.

Jaafar was reportedly selected for the role after a worldwide casting search was conducted. Speaking about the castproducer Graham King said, "It was clear that he is the only person to take on this role."

King added that he was "blown away by the way he organically personifies the spirit and personality of Michael” and was “beyond thrilled that he has come on board to portray his uncle and cannot wait for the world to see him on the big screen as Michael Jackson."

In January 2024, Lionsgate announced that 9-year-old Juliano Krue Valdi had been cast to portray a young Jackson, since the film covers his rise to fame with his brothers in the Jackson 5.

Meanwhile Oscar-nominated, Rustin actor Colman Domingo was cast as Jackson family patriarch Joe Jackson. Producer King said the actor "has such incredible range" and is "grateful to be working" with him on the project.

What will the biopic be about?

According to the film’s official synopsis, “Michael will bring audiences a riveting and honest portrayal of the brilliant yet complicated man who became the King of Pop.”

“The film presents his triumphs and tragedies on an epic, cinematic scale — from his human side and personal struggles to his undeniable creative genius, exemplified by his most iconic performances,” the statement continues.

“As never before, audiences will experience an inside look into one of the most influential, trailblazing artists the world has ever known," thesynopsis further reads.

The biographical movie is set to cover all aspects of the singer’s life. It is not known if the film will address Jackson's controversies including allegations of child sex abuse levied against him.

Makers behind Michael Jackson biopic

The film will be helmed by Antoine Fuqua, who is best known for directing The Equalizer trilogy, Southpaw, Emancipation and several critically acclaimed documentaries such as What's My Name: Muhammad Ali and Legacy: The True Story of the LA Lakers.The film will be written by Oscar nominee and Tony winner John Logan and produced by Graham King.

The filming of the biopic has reportedly begun earlier this week although it will only be released on April 18, 2025.