The first look at the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic has been released, and it recreates one of the singer’s most iconic outfits.
Michael Jackson’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson, plays the King of Pop in “Michael,” which releases in theaters on April 18, 2025. The film is now in production.
Jaafar Jackson takes the stage and recreates his uncle’s iconic “Man in the Mirror” look from his Dangerous Tour from 1992-93 in the first-look photo. It was taken by photographer Kevin Mazur, who photographed Jackson throughout his career and during his “This Is It” rehearsals.
“With Jaafar, every look, every note, every dance move is Michael,” said producer Graham King in a statement. “He embodies Michael in a way that no other actor could.”
The movie “will bring audiences a riveting and honest portrayal of the brilliant yet complicated man who became the King of Pop,” according to the logline. “The film presents his triumphs and tragedies on an epic, cinematic scale — from his human side and personal struggles to his undeniable creative genius, exemplified by his most iconic performances. As never before, audiences will experience an inside look into one of the most influential, trailblazing artists the world has ever known.”
The cast includes Oscar nominee Colman Domingo as father Joe Jackson, Nia Long as mother Katherine Jackson, Juliano Krue Valdi as young Michael and Miles Teller as lawyer John Branca.
Director Antoine Fuqua added, “We have assembled an incredible team of artists for this project – hair and makeup, costumes, cinematography, choreography, lighting, everything – and some who knew and worked with Michael arereuniting for this film. 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.”
“Michael”is produced by King and the co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate, Branca and John McClain. Lionsgate is distributing the film domestically, while Universal Pictures International will handle all territories apart from Japan, which Lionsgate will oversee.
