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Michael Becomes First Biopic to Gross $1 Billion Worldwide

A late boost from Japan with sustained global demand pushed the Jaafar Jackson‑led film past $1 billion, signaling a new commercial milestone for Lionsgate.

Overview

  • The film crossed the $1 billion mark on Sunday, July 12, 2026, with a reported $371.8 million in North America and $629.8 million overseas for a $1.001 billion global total.
  • Japan’s delayed release, where the movie has already earned roughly $35.7 million, and strong holds in Europe and Latin America were decisive in the final box‑office push.
  • Lionsgate confirmed at least one sequel is in development and said portions of it have already been filmed using material from the first production.
  • Critical reviews were mixed while audience response was strongly positive, reflected in high CinemaScore/A metrics and far higher audience scores than critics on aggregator sites, which helped sustain repeat viewings and long theatrical legs.
  • The milestone makes Michael the highest‑grossing biopic ever—surpassing Bohemian Rhapsody and Oppenheimer—and marks Lionsgate’s first $1 billion title, reshaping the studio’s commercial standing and streaming/catalog interest in Michael Jackson’s music.