Michael Jackson biopic release pushed to April 2026

Los Angeles: The upcoming biopic on the life of pop icon Michael Jackson, titled Michael, will now hit cinemas worldwide on April 24, 2026. The film was earlier slated for an October 2025 release.

Directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by John Logan, the movie stars Jaafar Jackson (Michael Jackson’s nephew) as his late uncle. The project is produced by Oscar-winner Graham King, known for The Departed, according to variety.com.

The film promises an intimate portrayal of Michael Jackson’s life, chronicling his rise to global stardom and lasting influence on the music industry.

Lionsgate will distribute the film in the US, while Universal will handle international markets, excluding Japan, where Kino Films holds the rights.

Lionsgate CEO Jon Feltheimer had earlier hinted at a likely shift to 2026. Although principal shoot wrapped in May 2024, the production underwent reshoots, and the initial cut was considerably long. There were discussions about releasing it in two parts.

The ensemble cast includes Colman Domingo and Nia Long as Jackson’s parents, Joe and Katherine Jackson. Miles Teller plays John Branca, the pop star’s attorney and advisor.

Larenz Tate portrays Motown founder Berry Gordy, while Laura Harrier plays music executive Suzanne de Passe. Kat Graham features as Diana Ross.

Other cast members include Jessica Sula as La Toya Jackson, Liv Symone as Gladys Knight, Kevin Shinick as Dick Clark, KeiLyn Durrel Jones as Jackson’s longtime friend and security aide Bill Bray, and Kendrick Sampson as legendary music producer Quincy Jones.

Michael Jackson passed away in June 2009 from acute propofol intoxication at his Los Angeles home. His personal doctor, Conrad Murray, was later convicted of involuntary manslaughter after it was determined that Jackson’s death was caused by a combination of sedatives administered under Murray’s care. He served two years of a four-year prison sentence.