April 22, 2026 | 11:25 am
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The upcoming Michael Jackson biopic Michael is set to debut in theaters with strong global expectations, projected to earn around US$150 million at the box office. The film, directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring Jaafar Jackson—Michael Jackson’s nephew—has drawn significant attention ahead of its release, both for its commercial potential and its portrayal of the late pop icon.
As reported by Art Threat, the film traces Michael Jackson’s journey from his early years as a child star in the Jackson 5 to his rise as a global music icon, including pivotal moments up to his Bad era. Jaafar Jackson, making his professional acting debut, was chosen for his close personal connection and perceived authenticity in portraying the King of Pop.
The production features a star-studded cast, including Nia Long, Miles Teller, Colman Domingo, Laura Harrier, and Juliano Krue Valdi. Screenwriter John Logan crafted the narrative to explore not only Jackson’s musical achievements but also the personal pressures and complexities behind his global fame. The film also received support from Jackson’s estate, enhancing its authenticity in terms of wardrobe and storytelling details.
With a Certified Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes and rising box office projections, Michael is positioned to potentially redefine records for music biopics. The strong anticipation is fueled by decades of global fandom and continued interest in Jackson’s legacy since his death in 2009.
Meanwhile, early reactions to the film have been mixed, sparking debate among fans and critics. According to a report by AOL, musician and filmmaker Questlove shared a notably reflective response after watching the film. Initially approaching it with a critical mindset, he said his perspective shifted as the film unfolded.
In an Instagram post cited by AOL, Questlove wrote that the biopic “does the impossible” by stripping away the spectacle and presenting Jackson as a human being rather than just a global icon. He admitted that he began watching with a focus on factual inaccuracies but eventually set aside those concerns, emphasizing that the film succeeded in capturing the emotional essence of Jackson’s life.
Questlove credited Jaafar Jackson’s performance for channeling his uncle’s spirit and praised the film for restoring a sense of humanity to the late singer. “If this is the final word on his legacy, showing his humanity was more important to me than any technical faux pas,” he said.
The film has undergone multiple reshoots and delays, with ongoing discussions about how much of Jackson’s life should be portrayed. As it prepares for its theatrical release, Michael continues to generate conversation, with audiences divided over its interpretation of one of music’s most influential figures.
Despite differing opinions, the film’s commercial prospects remain strong, with global interest suggesting it could become a major box office success while reigniting discussions about Michael Jackson’s life, artistry, and legacy.
Read: 10 Best Films to Watch in April 2026
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