The glorious story of the King of Pop is set to return to the big screen in a grand, emotional, and ambitious biopic. Lionsgate has unveiled a brand-new trailer for Michael, the much-anticipated film that
traces the extraordinary life of Michael Jackson, from his early days as a child prodigy in the Jackson 5 to his rise as a global cultural phenomenon. With Michael’s own nephew Jaafar Jackson stepping into the iconic role, the film is expected to show the real Michael - the man behind the pop sensation and all his highs as well as lows.
Michael trailer out
Taking on the monumental responsibility of portraying Michael Jackson is
Jaafar Jackson, the superstar’s nephew. The 29-year-old makes his feature film debut in the lead role, making it a major moment not only for the film but also for the Jackson family. Jaafar reportedly underwent an extensive physical transformation, including the use of a prosthetic nose, to authentically portray Michael during his early years. The newly released trailer shows his striking resemblance, stage presence, and ability to capture Michael’s signature movements and energy.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua,
Michael is all set to capture both the brilliance and the complexity of the pop legend. It traces his discovery as a young talent and his transformation into a visionary solo singer. Scenes from the trailer show how Michael shone as an artist even as a child who loved to perform on stage. We then see the singer's father motivating him along with his siblings to be successful, and his mother recognising his special talent. From packed shows to crazy fan love - the 2 minutes 17 seconds trailer portrays Jackson's aura and craze beautifully.Take a look at the trailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3zOLzsbOleM
Cast of Michael
The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast that brings key figures from Michael Jackson’s life into focus. Colman Domingo plays family patriarch Joe Jackson, while Nia Long portrays Katherine Jackson, the emotional backbone of the Jackson family. Miles Teller steps into the role of entertainment lawyer John Branca, a pivotal figure in Michael’s professional journey, and Laura Harrier plays music executive Suzanne de Passe.Several iconic names from music history are also portrayed in the film. Kat Graham appears as Diana Ross, whose influence on the Jackson 5 was instrumental in their early success, while Larenz Tate plays Motown founder Berry Gordy, the man who helped launch Michael’s career on a global scale.Michael Jackson’s siblings are also prominently featured in the trailer. Jamal R. Henderson plays Jermaine Jackson, Tre’ Horton portrays Marlon, Rhyan Hill is seen as Tito, Joseph David-Jones as Jackie, and Jessica Sula as La Toya Jackson, offering a fuller picture of the family dynamics behind the music.
Michael being released in two parts?
Reportedly structured as a two-part film,
Michael will focus its first installment on the singer’s rise to fame. As per an earlier report in The Guardian, the film was reshot after its initial declared release month (April 2025) and the new material has pushed the makers to make it into a two part film. The trailer and teaser primarily highlight Michael’s early solo success and his journey toward superstardom, culminating in the era that would eventually lead to the record-breaking success of
Thriller, the best-selling album of all time.Set for a global theatrical release on April 24, 2026,
Michael is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious music biopics ever made. After several delays, reported re-shoots and a teaser that broke Taylor Swift's Eras Tour records, the film is ready to show the enduring influence of the King of Pop.