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Michael release date, what to expect, ensemble cast, trailer, and more about Michael Jackson's biopic portrayed by his real-life nephew

Legend Michael Jackson's biopic is finally coming next year in 2026. Here's everything you need know about the musical drama flick before its release.

Shramana Kar
Nov 09, 2025
Michael release date, what to expect, ensemble cast, trailer, and more about Michael Jackson's biopic portrayed by his real-life nephew

Jaafar Jackson from Michael

Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, finally gets a biopic on him that's slated to release in 2026. Fans will be able to experience the legend's rise from rags to riches, his groundbreaking music journey, witness his iconic dance moves, relieve his achievements, and also get knowledge about how he broke racial barriers through his music through his biopic titled–Michael. Lionsgate Movies announced Michael long back in 2022, and now it finally gets a release date.

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Michael theatrical release date

Lionsgate Movies and Universal Pictures have unvelied the US release date for now which is next year on April 24, 2026. The worldwide (including India) release date is not confirmed yet.

Michael cast members

Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson (adult)

Juliano Krue Valdi as Young Michael Jackson

Colman Domingo as Michael's father Joe Jackson

Nia Long as Michael's mother Katherine Jackson

Miles Teller as Michael's manager John Branca

Laura Harrier as Motowon executive Suzanne de Passe

Kat Graham as Diana Rose

Larenz Tate as Berry Gordy

Kendrick Sampson as Quincy Jones

Derek Luke as Johnnie Cochram

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Michael official trailer breakdown

The most interesting part about the biopic is that Jaafar Jackson, who portays the titular role, is Michael Jackson's real-life nephew, who's father is Jermaine Jackson, the elder brother of Michael.

The 1-minute-13-second video dropped by Universal Pictures showcases Jaafar Jackson stunningly immitating Michael Jackson's famous moonwalk, while giving a quick look at the unforgettable 'thriller' video sequence. The trailer provides glimpses from Michael's family gatherings, his enjoying the stardom, his iconic stage performances, his meetings with his manager, accompanied by a tagline, "Honour your past and embrace the future".

However, the video keeps the tragic part of Michael Jackson's life hidden, only highlighting his rise from his childhood and his journey of becoming a legend. But the movie promises to be more intense with an amazing mix of musical elements.

What to expect from Michael biopic

The makers promise to provide an 'unfiltered' portrayal of the King of Pop's iconic life story that includes his early days in the Jackson 5 to his global stardom and the controversial side. The movie will feature Jackson's over thirty of his iconic songs, recreating his stage performances, including those from his time with the Jackson 5, his solo career, the 'Thriller' music video, and stadium shows.

The makers have officially stated in various interviews the biopic will not "sanitize" or avoid the more contentious aspects of Michael Jackson's life. His fans can expect an inside look into his life off-stage, including relationships (Lisa Marie Presley, Debbie Rowe), his role as a father, and the relentless media scrutiny that he faced.

FAQs:

Q. When to releases Michael Jackson's biopic?
A. Michael Jackson's biopic is slated to release next year on April 24, 2026 in the US. However, the India release date in not confirmed yet.
Q. Who did Michael Jackson's portrayal in his biopic?
A. Michael Jackson's portrayal in his biopic is done by none other than his own real-life nephew Jaafar Jackson.
Q. Michael Jackson's biopic cast members?
A. Michael Jackson's biopic features Jaafar Jackson, Juliano Krue Valdi, Colman Domingo, Nia Long, Miles Teller, Laura Harrier, Kat Graham, Larenz Tate, Kendrick Sampson, and Derek Luke as Johnnie Cochram in pivotal roles.

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