Michael
A 2026 biographical drama about Michael Jackson’s rise from child prodigy to the King of Pop, focusing on the family pressures and creative drive behind his early solo career.
Where to watch online
Official services. The link goes straight to this film.
Availability data by JustWatch
About the film
Discover the making of a king.
What it’s about
As the lead singer of the Jackson Five, young Michael displays extraordinary talent that soon outgrows the group. His father Joseph pushes the children relentlessly, while Michael’s own ambition pulls him toward a solo career. The film contrasts his off-stage life with iconic early performances, showing the cost of becoming the world’s biggest entertainer.
What hooks you
Antoine Fuqua directs, with Jaafar Jackson playing his uncle Michael and Colman Domingo as Joseph Jackson. The production filmed all musical numbers in the first two weeks, and the cast includes Nia Long as Katherine Jackson. The screenplay is by John Logan, with music by Lior Rosner.
Who it’s for
It will appeal to those who enjoy music biographies that balance stage spectacle with family drama, and to viewers drawn to stories of ambition and the price of fame in the 1970s.
- Countries
- United States, United Kingdom
- Year
- 2026
- Running time
- 2h 8min
- Age rating
- 18+
- MPAA
- PG-13
- World premiere
- Apr 22, 2026
×4.6box office to budget
Ratings
MOVIE․ONE · 348 votesCreative team
All 14-
01
Jaafar Jackson
Michael
-
02
Juliano Krue Valdi
Young Michael
-
03
Colman Domingo
Joseph Jackson
-
04
Jayden Harville
Actor
-
05
Nia Long
Katherine Jackson
-
06
Jaylen Hunter
Actor
-
07
Miles Teller
John Branca
-
08
Judah Edwards
Actor
-
09
KeiLyn Durrel Jones
Bill Bray
-
10
Nathaniel Logan McIntyre
Actor
-
11
Larenz Tate
Berry Gordy
-
12
Laura Harrier
Suzanne de Passe
-
13
Joseph David-Jones
Jackie Jackson
Trivia
- According to La Toya Jackson, Janet Jackson refused any mention of her in the film, although the creators offered her to participate in the project. Similar requests came from her half-brother and half-sister Randy and Rebbie.
- All musical numbers were filmed during the first two weeks of shooting.
- Originally, the final part of the film was devoted to the events of 1993, when Michael Jackson was accused of child molestation. Lionsgate abandoned this ending after lawyers for Jackson's heirs pointed to a clause in the agreement with accuser Jordan Chandler prohibiting his depiction in the film. The film's release was delayed, and Jackson's heirs paid the 15 million dollars spent on reshoots.
- Originally, the film included a character based on Diana Ross, who was to be played by Kat Graham. Several scenes were shot, but in April 2026 the actress announced that they would not be included in the final version of the film "for legal reasons."
Reviews
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Jersey Boys
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Big George Foreman
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7.1
Unsung Hero
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Michael
2026
Michael
2026
Michael
2026