Lionsgate has released the first trailer for Michael, the forthcoming biopic about pop legend Michael Jackson.
Lionsgate has released the first trailer for Michael, the forthcoming biopic about pop legend Michael Jackson
The film is being directed by Antoine Fuqua, 60, and the teaser for the project offers the first glimpse of Jackson’s life story brought to the screen by his nephew Jaafar Jackson, 29.
The film chronicles the rise of Jackson from child star to global icon, exploring both his personal life and his career-defining moments.
Lionsgate’s trailer opens with a recreation of Jackson in the recording studio with music producer Quincy Jones, portrayed by Kendrick Sampson.
Quincy is seen telling Jackson: “I know you’ve been waiting a long time for this. The tracks are made, the songs are ready. Let’s take it from the top.”
As Jackson’s 1982 hit Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’ plays, the clip flashes through scenes from the singer’s early years, live performances and music videos, including Thriller.
Alongside Jaafar, the film stars Miles Teller as Jackson’s attorney and adviser John Branca, as well as Colman Domingo as his father Joe Jackson and Nia Long as his mother Katherine Jackson.
Jessica Sula plays his sister LaToya Jackson, while Larenz Tate appears as Motown Records founder Berry Gordy.
Laura Harrier portrays pioneering music executive Suzanne de Passe, and Kat Graham stars as Diana Ross.
The biopic, which wrapped production in May 2024, is now set for release in cinemas on 24 April 2026 – a change from its original date of 3 October 2025.
Industry reports had suggested Michael might be split into two parts, but the trailer confirms it will be released as a single film.
A synopsis from Lionsgate reads: “Michael explores the global superstar’s journey to become known to the world as the King of Pop, presenting an intimate look at the life and enduring legacy of one of the most influential, trailblazing artists the world has ever known.”
The supporting cast also includes Liv Symone, Kevin Shinick, KeiLyn Durrel Jones and Kendrick Sampson, who portrays Quincy Jones, the heavyweight producer who first met Jackson when he was 12.
The screenplay was written by John Logan, whose credits include Alien: Covenant and Rango.
Producers include John Branca, Graham King and John McClain, with David B. Householter serving as executive producer.
Michael marks the first major dramatisation of Jackson’s life to have the full cooperation of his estate, with its makers given access to his music catalogue and archival material.
