The much-anticipated biopic of Michael Jackson, titled ‘Michael’ and directed by Antoine Fuqua, will now be hitting theaters six months later than originally planned, with a new release date set for October 3, 2025.
The delay isn’t due to production setbacks but is actually a strategic move by the studio, Lionsgate, which believes that the film’s quality and depth will make it a contender in the 2025 awards season.
Production on Michael went smoothly and wrapped in May 2024. Lionsgate, confident in the footage shot so far, is pushing the release date back to place the movie within the awards “corridor”—a period when studios release films they believe could receive major nominations. This confidence stems not only from the film’s storytelling but also from a strong performance by Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson’s nephew, who plays the legendary artist.
Written by John Logan, *Michael* will delve into the life of Michael Jackson, capturing both the public persona and the private struggles of the iconic singer. The film is set to explore Jackson’s journey from a young, fame-driven child to an international superstar, portraying the complexities of his life, from his achievements to the challenges he faced. In addition to his artistry, the movie will address the legal issues and controversies that clouded parts of Jackson’s career, offering a rounded perspective on his legacy.
Alongside Jaafar Jackson as Michael, the film’s cast features several well-known actors in roles that were crucial in Jackson’s life:
Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Michael’s strict and influential father
Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, Michael’s supportive mother
Kat Graham as Diana Ross, Jackson’s friend and musical inspiration
Kendrick Sampson as Quincy Jones, the music producer behind Thriller and Bad
Derek Luke as Johnnie Cochran, the lawyer who defended Jackson
Miles Teller as John Branca, co-executor of the Michael Jackson estate
Antoine Fuqua, known for Training Day and The Equalizer, has always held Michael Jackson in high regard. In a recent interview, Fuqua shared that Jackson was a major influence in his life and career. The director emphasized his excitement about portraying Jackson as a human being, not just an icon, explaining that this film will capture both Jackson’s extraordinary talent and the personal struggles he endured.
With a release date now scheduled for October 3, 2025, Michael is set to capture audiences and awards voters alike with its deep dive into the King of Pop’s world.
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