Michael Jackson Biopic ‘Michael’ builds buzz with new poster, star cast and April release

The upcoming big-budget biopic Michael , based on the life of global pop icon Michael Jackson, has generated fresh excitement after unveiling a striking crimson Valentine’s Day poster. The new visual features his nephew Jaafar Jackson embodying the King of Pop’s signature confidence, accompanied by bold typography and a handwritten “with love” note that nods to Jackson’s enduring bond with fans.

Adding to the momentum, new television spots aired during the NBA All-Star event, showcasing Jaafar recreating some of Michael Jackson’s most iconic dance moves to classics like Beat It . Earlier promotional material had already drawn attention for highlighting the singer’s famed Thriller era, and fan reactions have largely praised Jaafar’s uncanny resemblance and performance. While anticipation is high, some viewers have also debated the poster’s finish and how the film will address the controversies that surrounded Jackson’s life.

Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film aims to present a sweeping portrait of Michael Jackson’s journey from his childhood stardom with the Jackson 5 to becoming one of the most influential entertainers in music history. The screenplay is written by John Logan , with production backed by Graham King alongside longtime Jackson associates John Branca and John McClain.

The cast brings together several prominent names. Alongside Jaafar Jackson in the lead role, Nia Long plays Katherine Jackson, Michael’s mother, while Colman Domingo essays the role of his father, Joe Jackson. Miles Teller portrays John Branca, Jackson’s longtime lawyer and advisor. The ensemble also includes Laura Harrier as music executive Suzanne de Passe, Larenz Tate as Motown founder Berry Gordy, and Kat Graham as Diana Ross.

Michael is an English-language American production and is slated for a worldwide theatrical release on April 24, 2026, with select international premieres scheduled earlier in April. Distributed by Lionsgate in the United States and Universal Pictures internationally, the film is expected to receive a wide global rollout, including premium formats.

While there have been earlier television films, miniseries and documentaries depicting aspects of Michael Jackson’s life, Michael is being positioned as the first large-scale, definitive theatrical biopic on the artist. As promotional activity ramps up, the film has already emerged as one of the most anticipated music biopics in recent years, with audiences eager to see how it balances Jackson’s unmatched musical legacy with the complexities of his personal life.