Online Reporter
LOS ANGELES. − The highly anticipated biopic chronicling the life of pop legend Michael Jackson is set to miss its planned release this year, according to announcements from Lionsgate executives.
The film is simply titled ‘Michael.’
Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film will feature Jackson’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson, in the lead role, marking the young actor’s debut on the big screen.
During Lionsgate’s Q4 earnings call held last week, CEO Jon Feltheimer revealed that the film would likely not premiere until after April 1, 2026, moving it out of the current fiscal year.
“Michael” carries a hefty budget of approximately £155 million.
“In regard to our Michael Jackson biopic, we’re excited about the 3½ hours of amazing footage from producer Graham King and director Antoine Fuqua, and we will be announcing a definitive release strategy and timing in the next few weeks,” he said.
“I would note that it is likely we will move ‘Michael’ out of the fiscal year, which will impact fiscal ’26 financial results but will bolster an already strong fiscal ’27 slate.”
This delay marks a shift from an earlier schedule that indicated a release could occur on October 3.
The adaptation is currently undergoing reshoots, a decision driven by a recently discovered legal clause that restricts mentions or dramatisations related to past abuse allegations against Jackson.
The Jackson estate has consistently denied such allegations, culminating in the film’s need to revise its script.
Despite these challenges, the film’s production has been committed, with principal
Lionsgate is keen to present a polished final product, hence the adjustments and attention to legal sensitivities.
The cast also features notable talent, including Colman Domingo, who plays Joe Jackson, Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, Kat Graham as Diana Ross and Miles Teller as John Branca, Jackson’s attorney and advisor.
Additionally, Jessica Sula takes on the role of La Toya Jackson, with Kendrick Sampson appearing as Quincy Jones, who played a pivotal role in Jackson’s early musical career.
The pair would go on to collaborate on three of Jackson’s most successful albums: 1979’s “Off the Wall”, 1982’s “Thriller”, and 1987’s “Bad”.
While excitement had built up during last year’s CinemaCon, where “Michael” was featured prominently, Lionsgate did not show any new footage during this year’s event. − Agencies
Londile Moyo