The long-awaited Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, has already made a significant splash online. The film’s teaser, which was released just days ago, has garnered over 30 million views within hours of being posted, far surpassing the traction of other major releases, including John Wick: Chapter 4. This success has left fans buzzing, speculating about the film’s potential and whether a sequel might be on the horizon.
In a recent quarterly earnings call, Lionsgate Motion Picture Chair Adam Fogelson gave a key update about the biopic’s trajectory. Not only did he confirm the April 2026 release date for Michael, but he also provided some insight into the future of the project, especially concerning the possibility of a sequel. Here’s everything we know so far.
The Success of Michael’s First Teaser
Within hours of its release, the first teaser for Michael became a viral sensation. The trailer amassed a staggering 30 million views, more than doubling the performance of John Wick: Chapter 4‘s teaser in the same time frame. The viral success of the teaser has generated widespread interest in the biopic and fueled speculation about how Lionsgate plans to move forward with the project.
Lionsgate Executive’s Comment:
“The reaction to the teaser has been overwhelming,” said Adam Fogelson during the call. “It’s clear that there’s a massive interest in Michael’s story, and we’re excited to deliver a film that lives up to that anticipation.”
This immediate success was pivotal in ensuring that fans would continue to engage with the project in the months leading up to its official release.
Will Michael Be a One-Part or Two-Part Film?
Initially, Lionsgate had envisioned Michael as a single 3½-hour feature. However, the film’s development took a dramatic turn due to controversial footage depicting one of Michael Jackson’s accusers, which caused tension between the filmmakers and Jackson’s estate. Reports indicated that the estate violated its agreement with the accuser, who had previously been promised he would never be depicted in dramatized form.
Given this situation, Graham King, the film’s producer, suggested in early 2025 that the movie might be split into two parts to address the storyline and legal complications more effectively.
Producer Graham King’s Statement on the Split:
“The story of Michael Jackson is so expansive that splitting the film into two parts would allow us to dive deeper into his complex life, and give the film room to breathe while still respecting the sensitivities involved,” King stated.
While early rumors about the film’s two-part structure seemed inevitable, Adam Fogelson clarified during the earnings call that although no official decision has been made, the creative team is working hard to ensure that any future projects will be ready for the audience:
The creative team is evidently dedicated to crafting a well-rounded experience that honors Jackson’s legacy while remaining sensitive to the complex issues surrounding his life.
What We Know About the Michael Biopic?
The biopic is directed by Antoine Fuqua, known for his work on Training Day, The Equalizer, and Olympus Has Fallen. The script was written by Oscar-nominated John Logan, who previously worked on Gladiator, The Aviator, and Hugo.
Despite the ongoing controversies, the casting of the film has garnered attention, with Jaafar Jackson, Michael’s real-life nephew, portraying the King of Pop himself. The ensemble cast also includes Colman Domingo (nominated for an Oscar), Nia Long, Miles Teller, and Laura Harrier.
The film is expected to cover Michael Jackson’s life from his rise to stardom through to his struggles and triumphs, providing an in-depth look at the man behind the music.
Key Production Details:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Director | Antoine Fuqua |
| Screenplay | John Logan (Oscar-nominated) |
| Lead Actor | Jaafar Jackson (Michael’s nephew) |
| Other Notable Cast | Colman Domingo, Nia Long, Miles Teller, Laura Harrier |
| Producer | Graham King |
| Release Date | April 24, 2026 |
Filming and Behind-the-Scenes Challenges
Filming for Michael wrapped up in May 2024, with the production traveling between various locations. The filming process, however, wasn’t without its hurdles, particularly as the creative team navigated the complex relationship with the Jackson estate and the legal implications of certain scenes.
Director Antoine Fuqua’s Thoughts:
“We wanted to make sure this film was as close to the truth as possible while still respecting the legacy of Michael Jackson. There were definitely challenges along the way, but I think we’ve managed to create something that both honours him and entertains his fans.”
Despite the challenges, the production has received praise for the accuracy of its portrayal of Jackson’s persona and his emotional journey.
Impact of the Film’s Delay and Controversy
While fans have been waiting for years to see a definitive portrayal of Michael Jackson, the delays and controversies have led to heightened expectations. Despite the pushback in the release schedule, the anticipation remains immense, especially given the viral success of the first teaser.
What We Can Expect from the Film:
- A Deep Dive into Michael Jackson’s Life:
Fans can expect a comprehensive portrayal of Michael’s rise to fame, personal struggles, and impact on pop culture. - Performance of Jaafar Jackson:
As Michael’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson’s performance is one of the most anticipated aspects of the film, with many fans excited to see how closely he can capture his uncle’s unique presence. - Music and Legacy:
As expected from a film about one of the world’s greatest entertainers, Michael will be filled with iconic music, showcasing the sounds and rhythms that defined his career.
What’s Next for Michael’s Legacy?
The success of Michael’s teaser, coupled with the exciting announcement of the film’s release date, signifies a major cultural event in the entertainment industry. With the possibility of a sequel (or two-part structure), the story of Michael Jackson could be far from over.
Fogelson’s Final Thoughts:
“It’s a huge privilege to tell Michael Jackson’s story. Whether or not it’s one movie or two, we’re determined to do justice to his incredible legacy.”
FAQs
While no official sequel has been confirmed, there is speculation that a two-part structure could be explored to further dive into Michael Jackson’s life.
The biopic is scheduled for release on April 24, 2026.
Michael Jackson is portrayed by Jaafar Jackson, the King of Pop’s real-life nephew.
Michael will cover significant moments in Michael Jackson’s life, including his rise to stardom, personal struggles, and his unparalleled impact on music and pop culture.
Expect more trailers and promotional content leading up to the April 2026 release.
