Final Trailer for MICHAEL Drops With Electrifying “Billie Jean” Clip
The King of Pop is stepping back into the spotlight in a big way. Michael, the upcoming biopic that centers on the life of Michael Jackson, just released its final trailer, and it’s packed with iconic moments, massive energy, and a glimpse at the man behind the legend.
On top of that, we’ve also got a “Billie Jean” clip that recreates one of the most unforgettable performances in music history.
At the center of it all is Jaafar Jackson, making his feature film debut as his legendary uncle. In the clip, Jaafar steps into the spotlight wearing the signature white glove and black bedazzled jacket, performing “Billie Jean” with striking precision.
The scene mirrors the historic 1983 performance from Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever, the moment where Michael Jackson unveiled the moonwalk and changed pop culture forever.
The trailer itself leans into every era of Jackson’s journey, focusing on his explosive rise as a solo superstar, the footage highlights the music, the movement, and the intense pressure that followed him throughout his life.
The film is directed by Antoine Fuqua, working from a script by John Logan, and Fuqua has been very clear about what makes this project stand out.
He said, “But most importantly, it’s Jaafar who embodies Michael. It goes beyond the physical resemblance. It’s Michael’s spirit that comes through in a magical way. You have to experience it to believe it.”
Backing up Jaafar is a strong supporting cast. Colman Domingo steps into the role of Joe Jackson, with Nia Long as Katherine Jackson. Miles Teller plays influential entertainment lawyer John Branca, and Laura Harrier appears as music executive Suzanne de Passe. The lineup also includes Kat Graham as Diana Ross and Larenz Tate as Motown icon Berry Gordy.
The Jackson family is well represented too, with Jamal R. Henderson as Jermaine, Tre’ Horton as Marlon, Rhyan Hill as Tito, Joseph David-Jones as Jackie, and Jessica Sula as La Toya.
The official synopsis lays out exactly what the film is aiming to deliver: “‘Michael’ is the cinematic portrayal of the life and legacy of one of the most influential artists the world has ever known.
“It tells the story of Michael Jackson’s life beyond the music, tracing his journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of the Jackson 5, to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world.
“Highlighting both his life off-stage and some of the most iconic performances from his early solo career, the film gives audiences a front-row seat to Michael Jackson as never before. This is where his story begins.”
With the full support of the Jackson estate, Michael looks like it could deliver a full-scale cinematic experience that captures both the spectacle and the personal cost of global fame.
Michael hits theaters on April 24.