Michael Jackson biopic: Fans hit back with nepotism & 'biased' claims following Jaafar Jackson's casting

The recent announcement of Jaafar Jackson playing the role of The King of Pop Michael Jackson in the biopic Michael has sparked a barrage of reactions from fans. The 26-year-old Jaafar, who happens to be Michael Jackson's nephew and The Jackson 5 member Jermaine Jackson's nephew, make his debut with the upcoming biographical drama which will be helmed by Emancipation's Antoine Fuqua.

"I’m humbled and honored to bring my Uncle Michael’s story to life. To all the fans all over the world, I’ll see you soon," wrote Jaafar in his tweet following the announcement.

Reportedly, producer Graham King was 'blown away' by the way Jaafar Jackson personified the spirit and personality of his late uncle, with director Fuqua adding that the 26-year-old boasted a natural ability to emulate Michael Jackson in front of the camera.

Michael will be based on a script written by John Logan (Gladiator, Aviator, Skyfall, etc.) with Graham King, John Branca, John McClain and the Michael Jackson estate set to co-executive produce the film.

Fans on social media, however, did not seem all that impressed with both the casting choice and the fact that a biopic has been commissioned on someone accused of child molestation. Michael Jackson, who is arguably one of the biggest pop icons in the history of mankind, led a dubious and alarmingly low-profile personal life that was marred with accusations of child abuse and molestation. Netizens were quick to highlight these facets of his life following the announcement regarding the biopic.

"Hello? Do you still remember he was a child abuser?🙃" wrote a social media user, echoing the sentiments of many others.

"So controversial.....come on! Obviously they're going to keep the narrative on Michael's side and block out the possibility of pedophilia. I'm curious, but my guess is they'll just simply represent the artist in a positive light," wrote another, underlining the fact that the film would lack the required objective gaze, considering the Michael Jackson estate's involvement.

"Mid director, unexperienced actor, generic biopic, questionable person morally…. Sounds fantastic," came a sarcastic response from another fan.

Netizens weren't happy about the nepotism angle either, especially in the thick of the 'Nepo Baby' conversation that has currently enveloped Hollywood. 

"Who is this kid? He has like one single on Spotify, has never acted as far as I can tell, and looks nothing like Michael. Maybe the director and producers know something we don’t, but this feels odd," said a user.

"Can dude even act?" wondered another