Despite the King of Pop not being among us for a few years, the name of Michael Jackson is always remembered as one of the greatest singers in history. Recently, it was announced that a biopic in his honor is already in progress.
The film is titled Michael and is being directed by Antoine Fuqua, known for his work on The Equalizer and Training Day. The screenplay has been developed by the three-time Oscar nominee John Logan (Skyfall and Gladiator).
Many have claimed that the production will change the way we perceive the eternal idol, and the director himself confirmed that the story will be told “just as we know it”. Lionsgate will handle the distribution in the United States.
Who is the cast of Michael?
Jaafar Jackson is the one who accepted the challenge of bringing the King of Pop to life in his new biopic, but he won’t be the only one stepping into his shoes, as Juliano Valdi has been chosen to portray a younger version of the music icon.
The lead actor, Jaafar, is the 27-year-old nephew of the legend and the son of former Jackson 5 member Jermaine Jackson. The star has been singing and dancing since the age of 12, primarily chosen for his astonishing resemblance to Michael.
The director confessed in an interview with Entertainment Weekly that “it’s amazing how much he looks like Michael… sounds like him, dances like him, sings like him”.
On Jan. 25th, Deadline reported that Oscar-nominee Colman Domingo is joining the cast. The “Rustin” actor will portray Joe Jackson, the patriarch of the family, who was known his hard-driving management and often controversial parenting of the Jackson 5.
Fuqua told Deadline that “Colman has such incredible range,” and that he is “grateful to be working with an actor with his passion and ability to portray the many sides of Joe Jackson: a husband, a father and a manager.”
Also, it was confirmed that Miles Teller will be another cast member and will bring the lawyer John Branca to life. This was an entertainment lawyer who played a significant role in the life and career of Michael Jackson.
He served as his legal advisor and attorney for many years. He was also involved in the negotiation and structuring of various business deals, including the acquisition of The Beatles’ song catalog and other lucrative ventures.
What will Michael be about?
Michael will tell the story of the iconic singer and promises to explore “triumphs and tragedies on an epic cinematic scale”. The narrative is oriented towards a more intimate and honest vision of the journey that Jackson experienced on his way to becoming a global idol.
When does Michael premiere?
Finally, Michael has a release date! The biopic will hit the big screen on April 18, 2025. The production not only features a great director and screenwriter but also boasts a team of over 420 professionals, including Oscar-winning cinematographer Dion Beebe, production designer Barbara Ling, costume designer Marci Rodgers and visual effects specialist Louis Morin.
