Lionsgate has released the trailer for the latest film from Antoine Fuqua, “Michael,” starring Jaafar Jackson, Colman Domingo, Nia Long, Miles Teller, Laura Harrier, Kat Graham, Larenz Tate, and Derek Luke. The music biopic film on Michael Jackson will be released in theaters on April 24th, 2026.
Plot Synopsis: MICHAEL is the cinematic portrayal of the life and legacy of one of the most influential artists the world has ever known. The film tells the story of Michael Jackson’s life beyond the music, tracing his journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of the Jackson Five, to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world. Highlighting both his life off-stage and some of the most iconic performances from his early solo career, the film gives audiences a front-row seat to Michael Jackson as never before. This is where his story begins.
What do you all think of the trailer? A project that many of us have been dreading for some time has finally shown its first footage after numerous delays and questions as to whether it would be one film or two (It appears to be just one now), the Michael Jackson Hollywood biopic is officially here, produced by “Bohemian Rhapsody” producer Graham King nonetheless, which should illicit more than a few eyerolls from those who are tired of the oversimplification and over-produced nature of studio musician biopics. A controversial and celebrated figure, unless the film delves into the darker, more thorny aspects of Jackson’s life, will it be a story worth telling? I’m excited to see Jaafar Jackson perform as his uncle. Still, this kind of casting, with the family’s approval, suggests that it will be a watered-down tribute to the more appealing aspects of Michael’s life and career, rather than a fair and balanced approach. Hopefully, Colman Domingo is afforded a meaty role as Michael’s father, Joe Jackson. But with an April release date, is the studio considering this as an awards contender or as a mega-money grab? My guess is the former, but we’ll see. What do you think, though? Please share your thoughts in the comments section below or on our X account.


