The next chapter of Michael Jackson’s story is already taking shape. Following the strong theatrical run of Michael, Lionsgate is preparing to expand the biopic into a two-part saga, with the sequel expected to begin filming by the end of 2026 or in early 2027.
Studio executives are targeting a theatrical release in late 2027 or early 2028, signaling an accelerated production schedule for one of the year’s biggest music franchises. Unlike the first film, which concludes during the Bad era, the sequel is expected to explore the later stages of the King of Pop’s life and career.
Where will the ‘Michael’ sequel fit in Michael Jackson’s story?
The Michael sequel is expected to continue Michael Jackson’s story from the late 1980s onward, picking up after the first film’s ending during the Bad era and exploring the later stages of his career, personal life, and musical legacy.
The original biopic focused on Jackson’s rise from his childhood with the Jackson 5 through his transformation into a global superstar, closing around the 1987–1988 Bad World Tour. The first movie intentionally left a significant portion of Jackson’s life untouched.
After covering milestones such as the success of Off the Wall, Thriller and the beginning of the Bad era, the sequel could move into some of the most defining moments of his career, including the Dangerous and HIStory periods, his evolution as a performer, and the massive tours that cemented his status as one of music’s biggest figures.
Lionsgate executives have indicated that there is still a large amount of Jackson’s story and music catalog that was not included in the first installment.
Jaafar Jackson in Michael (Source: IMDb)
However, the sequel may not follow a completely linear path. Lionsgate chairman Adam Fogelson suggested that the follow-up could move “forwards and backwards” through Jackson’s timeline, allowing the film to revisit moments that were skipped in the original while also continuing into later chapters of his life.
That approach would give filmmakers more flexibility to include important events that did not fit into the first movie’s timeframe. One of the biggest challenges for Michael 2 will be balancing Jackson’s artistic achievements with the more complicated parts of his public life.
The first film faced controversy over the events it chose to include or leave out, particularly regarding allegations that emerged in the 1990s. A sequel covering that period would have to navigate those issues while portraying the impact they had on Jackson’s career, reputation and personal life.
From a musical perspective, the sequel has plenty of iconic material to explore. Songs, performances and eras that were not featured prominently in the first movie could become central elements, with Lionsgate teasing that some of Jackson’s most recognizable music moments remain available for the follow-up.
