Michael Jackson Biopic Release Delayed to April 2026

## Michael Jackson Biopic Gets New Release Date

Michael Jackson’s eagerly awaited biopic, *Michael*, has officially announced its new release date. The film is now set to premiere in theaters and IMAX worldwide on April 24, 2026, instead of the originally planned October date.

### Distribution Details

The biopic focuses on the life of the iconic King of Pop, with Lionsgate handling domestic distribution while Universal takes charge internationally, with the exception of Japan, where Kino Films will oversee the release.

### Direction and Production

Directed by Antoine Fuqua and featuring a screenplay by John Logan, the film stars Jaafar Jackson, who plays his famous uncle. The production is led by Oscar-winning producer Graham King, renowned for his work on *The Departed*.

### Official Synopsis

According to the official synopsis, *Michael* aims to present “an intimate look at the life and enduring legacy of one of the most influential, trailblazing artists the world has ever known,” tracing Jackson’s rise to global superstardom.

### Release Date Change

The shift in release date was anticipated, as Lionsgate CEO Jon Feltheimer had hinted back in May that the film would likely be postponed to 2026. Though principal photography was completed in May 2024, the project has undergone extensive reshoots and an initial cut that necessitated more time for editing and post-production.

### Production Ambitions

Early discussions even considered the possibility of splitting the film into two parts, signaling the extensive nature of the project. The biopic boasts a considerable production budget of $155 million.

### Cast Highlights

The film features a talented ensemble cast, including Colman Domingo and Nia Long as Joe and Katherine Jackson, respectively. Miles Teller portrays John Branca, Jackson’s attorney and advisor, while Larenz Tate embodies Motown Records founder Berry Gordy.

Additional cast members include Laura Harrier as music executive Suzanne de Passe, Kat Graham as Diana Ross, Jessica Sula as La Toya Jackson, Liv Symone as Gladys Knight, Kevin Shinick as Dick Clark, and Kendrick Sampson as legendary producer Quincy Jones, who first met Michael Jackson when he was just 12 years old. KeiLyn Durrel Jones completes the cast as Bill Bray, Jackson’s former security guard and confidant.

### Aiming for Musical Ambition

This biopic is among the most ambitious musical portrayals in recent years, seeking to encapsulate the multifaceted life and extraordinary career of the performer who transformed the landscape of popular music and entertainment before his passing in 2009.

What are your thoughts on the upcoming film? Will you be watching it when it hits theaters?