Photo: Getty Images
The first look into Michael Jackson's anticipated biopic is finally here.
On Thursday, November 6, Lionsgate and Universal shared the first trailer for its upcoming film based on the King of Pop's life. Directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by John Logan, Michael focuses on Jackson's rise to fame from his time with the Jackson 5 as a child in the late 1960s to his death in 2009. The film stars Jaafar Jackson, the pop star's nephew who portrays MJ, Colman Domingo as Michael's father Joe Jackson, Nia Long as his mother Katherine Jackson, Miles Teller as Michael's manager John Branca and Kendrick Sampson as Quincy Jones.
The trailer gives fans a glimpse at what to expect from the film, from the beginning of Jackson's career with his four brothers to the creation of his major solo hits like "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'," "Beat It" and "Thriller." In one scene, you can see Jaafar Jackson's complete transformation into his late uncle as he works with Quincy Jones in the studio.
Michael Jackson's estate is also involved with the film. The musician's estate shared the trailer via its official social media accounts. The plans for Michael Jackson's biopic were announced in 2022. Jackson's nephew landed the lead role the following year, but production was paused due to the SAG-AFTRA strike. Michael is expected to arrive in theaters and IMAX April 24, 2026.
Watch the entire trailer below.