Lionsgate unveiled a preview of the biographical film “Michael” based on Michael Jackson on Monday, shedding light on some aspects of the highly anticipated 2026 movie while leaving many unanswered questions.
Initially announced in 2022, the film directed by Antoine Fuqua and featuring Jaafar Jackson, the nephew of the late pop icon, chronicles Michael Jackson’s journey from obscurity to global fame. Originally set for an April 2025 release, the premiere was delayed first by six months and then by a year reportedly due to necessary reshoots.
Reports suggest that the postponements were linked to the inclusion of a segment in the movie related to the sexual abuse allegations against Jackson. Allegedly, a legal agreement between Jackson’s estate and Jordan Chandler, who accused the singer of molesting him in 1993, forced significant alterations to the film’s conclusion.
Chandler received a substantial settlement of around $20 million following the allegations. While it has been claimed that the estate did not disclose the limitations on depicting Chandler or his family, no official confirmation from Fuqua, Lionsgate, or Jackson’s estate has been provided.
Speculations persist on whether the rumored changes to the movie’s ending are accurate and if the film will delve into the criminal and civil cases surrounding Jackson. The singer and his estate consistently denied the accusations of wrongdoing. Jackson faced charges of sexual abuse in 2005 but was acquitted on all counts.
Uncertainty also surrounds the potential for a sequel to the film. Rumors have circulated suggesting a two-part division, with the first installment focusing on Jackson’s rise to fame and the second exploring his immense success and tarnished public image.
Addressing the reshoots undergone by “Michael,” Lionsgate’s Adam Folgeson hinted at the possibility of a second film, emphasizing the team’s commitment to delivering more content promptly post the initial release.
The involvement of Jackson’s family in the production remains unclear. Actor Colman Domingo, portraying Michael’s father, Joe, mentioned the support of Michael’s children, Paris and Prince Jackson, in the film’s creation. However, Paris Jackson disputed the portrayal of her involvement, expressing her minimal participation and offering feedback on early drafts that went unaddressed.
Music biopics often face challenges with estate involvement and the selective depiction of artists’ lives. While “Michael” aims to capture the essence of the iconic musician, the controversies surrounding its production mirror similar struggles encountered by biopics like “Bob Marley: One Love” and “Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere.”
The influence of estates in shaping the narrative around iconic musicians like Michael Jackson underscores the complex dynamics involved in portraying these figures on screen. Despite potential setbacks, the allure of a renowned subject like Michael Jackson may propel “Michael” to success, with industry projections hinting at a promising future for the film.