Overview
- Lionsgate released a behind-the-scenes video highlighting Jaafar Jackson's preparation and rehearsals to play his uncle in Michael.
- Jaafar calls the role “a calling,” with footage of him practicing signature moments including Billie Jean and Thriller.
- Director Antoine Fuqua and producer Graham King say they were initially unsure about casting Jaafar before concluding he was the ideal choice.
- The film is slated for theaters on April 24, 2026 after a delay from October 2025 that included reshoots and a third-act rewrite acknowledged by Lionsgate leadership.
- Produced by Graham King with estate co-executors John Branca and John McClain, the film features Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, Miles Teller as John Branca, and Larenz Tate as Berry Gordy, with Lionsgate handling U.S. release and Universal set for international distribution.