New Trailer For MICHAEL: Michael Jackson Biopic Chronicles Rise From Child Star to King of Pop
The King of Pop is stepping back into the spotlight. Lionsgate has dropped the first full trailer for Michael, a big-screen biopic that takes on the towering legacy of Michael Jackson and traces his evolution from child prodigy to global icon.
The preview promises spectacle, intimacy, and a look at the ambition that reshaped pop culture forever. Leading the film is Jaafar Jackson, Michael’s nephew, making his first major film appearance in the role of his famous uncle. F
rom the early Jackson 5 performances to the electric solo years, the trailer leans hard into the music, the movement, and the pressure that followed Jackson at every stage of his life.
Directing the film is Antoine Fuqua, working from a script by John Logan. Fuqua has been outspoken about what makes Jaafar’s performance special, saying, “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.”
The cast surrounding Jaafar includes Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, while Nia Long takes on the role of Katherine Jackson. Miles Teller appears as influential entertainment lawyer John Branca, and Laura Harrier portrays music executive Suzanne de Passe. The film also features Kat Graham as Diana Ross and Larenz Tate as Motown legend Berry Gordy.
Michael’s siblings are brought to life by 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 frames the project as a sweeping portrait of Jackson’s life and ambition. “‘Michael’ is the cinematic portrayal of the life and legacy of one of the most influential artists the world has ever known,” it reads.
It goes on to explain that the film “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.”
Produced with the backing of the Jackson estate, Michael is a Lionsgate and GK Films production, aiming to balance the scale of Jackson’s fame with the personal cost of it. This movie is going to be a full-on cinematic event built around one of the most influential performers of all time.
Michael opens exclusively in theaters on April 24.