Overview
- Page Six reports that after a private Los Angeles screening attended by more than 60 relatives, Janet Jackson sharply criticized the biopic's performances, makeup and dialogue.
- Jermaine Jackson reportedly pushed back, telling his sister she was jealous and urging her to “get on the wave,” with several relatives said to praise Jaafar Jackson’s portrayal of Michael.
- TMZ adds that tensions spilled into a heated phone call after the gathering and reports Janet did not participate in the production, which sources say she previously declined to join.
- Taj Jackson publicly pushed back on Thursday, asking followers not to promote “false stories,” casting doubt on accounts of a family clash.
- The film stars Jaafar Jackson, is directed by Antoine Fuqua with involvement from the Michael Jackson Estate, and remains slated to open April 24, 2026, as Paris Jackson has previously said she had zero involvement and criticized its accuracy.