Nephew Takes on Uncle’s Legendary Role (Image Credits: Flickr)
The full trailer for Antoine Fuqua’s upcoming Michael Jackson biopic Michael arrived this week, captivating audiences with glimpses of the pop legend’s rise amid family pressures and creative triumphs.[1][2]
Nephew Takes on Uncle’s Legendary Role
Jaafar Jackson, the late singer’s real-life nephew and son of Jermaine Jackson, makes his feature film debut as Michael Jackson in a performance that has already sparked widespread praise.[3])
Handpicked for the part after years of preparation, Jackson recreates iconic moves like the moonwalk and captures his uncle’s voice and mannerisms with striking accuracy. The trailer opens with an empowering voiceover declaring, “You are confident. You are strong. You are beautiful. You are the greatest of all time,” setting the tone for his transformation from child prodigy to global superstar.[1] Young Michael appears through Juliano Krue Valdi, portraying the Jackson 5 frontman during the group’s early days.
Star-Studded Ensemble Revives Iconic Figures
A formidable cast surrounds Jackson, bringing depth to the singer’s personal and professional circles.
- Colman Domingo as the stern patriarch Joe Jackson
- Nia Long as devoted mother Katherine Jackson
- Miles Teller as entertainment lawyer John Branca
- Laura Harrier as music executive Suzanne de Passe
- Larenz Tate as Motown founder Berry Gordy
- Kat Graham as Diana Ross
- Kendrick Sampson as producer Quincy Jones
- Jessica Sula as sister LaToya Jackson
Additional siblings like Jermaine (Jamal R. Henderson), Marlon (Tre Horton), Tito (Rhyan Hill), and Jackie (Joseph David-Jones) fill out the Jackson family dynamic.[3])[4] The ensemble promises authentic portrayals of the relationships that shaped Jackson’s life.
Trailer Spotlights Songs, Struggles and Spectacle
The two-minute trailer weaves together high-energy performances and intimate family moments, underscored by mashups of hits like “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’,” “Beat It,” “Billie Jean,” and more.[3])
Scenes depict studio sessions, Motown breakthroughs, and tense interactions, including Joe Jackson’s line, “In this life, you’re either a winner or you’re a loser,” and Katherine’s affirming, “You have a special light.”[2] The earlier teaser amassed 116 million views in 24 hours, shattering records for musical biopics.[3]) Fuqua’s direction emphasizes Jackson’s genius alongside his human challenges.
Production Navigates Delays Toward 2026 Premiere
Development started in 2019 under producer Graham King, with John Logan scripting and Fuqua directing.[4]
Principal photography ran from January to May 2024 after strike delays, followed by reshoots in 2025 over legal concerns and runtime adjustments. Lionsgate shifted the release from 2025 dates to April 24, 2026, in theaters and IMAX.[3]) The film traces Jackson’s path from Jackson 5 stardom through 1980s peaks, confronting triumphs, tragedies, and allegations head-on.
Key Takeaways
- Jaafar Jackson debuts as Michael, backed by Oscar-caliber talents like Colman Domingo and Nia Long.
- Full trailer features MJ hits and family drama, building massive hype.
- April 24, 2026, marks the cinematic return of the King of Pop’s story.
As Michael gears up for its bow, it stands poised to reignite fascination with one of music’s most enigmatic figures. Will Jaafar Jackson’s portrayal redefine the legacy? Share your thoughts in the comments.
