Lionsgate Believes Michael Jackson Movie Will Be Studio’s Biggest Hit Ever

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Lionsgate Believes Michael Jackson Movie Will Be Studio’s Biggest Hit Ever

The upcoming Michael Jackson movie, titled Michael, is not only one of the most anticipated movies of next year, but also one that Lionsgate believes will be its biggest hit ever.

The upcoming biopic, which stars Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson in the lead role, is set to release sometime next year, but Lionsgate already believes the film is going to be big. Lionsgate president of worldwide television distribution Jim Packer recently opened up about how confident the studio is in the film.

“The buzz that we’re getting every time a photo gets released is kind of crazy. And I think that’ll be the biggest movie we’ve ever had,” Packer said (via The Hollywood Reporter).

“Michael will bring audiences a riveting and honest portrayal of the brilliant yet complicated man who became known worldwide as the King of Pop,” the synopsis for the film reads. “This epic, cinematic film will examine Jackson’s triumphs and tragedies — from his human side, to his public and private struggles, to the accusations and the 24/7 media microscope Jackson lived under, even at his artistic apex. The all-star filmmaking team will also capture Michael’s undeniable creative genius, recreating his most memorable, iconic performances. As never before, audiences will experience an inside look at one of the most influential, trailblazing artists the world has ever known.”

Who is in the Michael Jackson movie?

Alongside Jaafar Jackson, the cast also includes Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, Miles Teller as John Branca, Laura Harrier as Suzanne de Passe, Jamal R. Henderson as Jermaine Jackson, Tre Horton as Marlon Jackson, Joseph David-Jones as Jackie Jackson, Kat Graham as Diana Ross, Larenz Tate as Berry Gordy, Liv Symone as Gladys Knight, Jessica Sula as La Toya Jackson, Kevin Shinick as Dick Clark, and Juliano Krue Valdi as young Michael Jackson.

Antoine Fuqua is directing Michael. The script was written by John Logan. Graham King, John Branca, and John McClain are producing the film. While production was delayed because of the 2023 strikes, filming for Michael officially began in January 2024.

Michael releases in United States theaters on April 18, 2025, from Lionsgate.