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Jaafar Jackson Leads 'Michael' as Trailer Lands Ahead of April 24 Theatrical Release

A rare casting of a blood relative signals a push for authenticity.

Overview

  • Jaafar Jackson gave his first television interview promoting the biopic and said he spent nearly two years preparing to capture Michael Jackson’s voice, movement, and presence.
  • He said the film blends his vocals with recordings of his uncle to recreate performance moments without losing the original sound.
  • The Antoine Fuqua–directed film has released its trailer and opens in theaters on April 24, with screenings also slated in South African chains Ster-Kinekor and CineCentre.
  • The lead marks Jaafar Jackson’s first on-screen acting role, joining a cast that includes Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, and Miles Teller as Michael’s manager John Branca.
  • Family reactions diverge, with Katherine Jackson praising the casting in 2023 while Paris Jackson says she was not involved and disputes accuracy, as the production touts a reported budget of more than $155 million.