The eagerly awaited biopic about Michael Jackson, featuring his nephew Jaafar Jackson in the lead role, has had its release date delayed by six months. Originally scheduled for April 18, 2025, the film will now be released on October 3, 2025, as confirmed by Lionsgate.

Michael Jackson Biopic Starring Jaafar Jackson Delayed to October 3, 2025

Key Details of the Upcoming Michael Jackson Biopic

The film will not only star Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson but will also feature Colman Domingo and Nia Long portraying Jackson's parents, Joe and Katherine Jackson. Additionally, the cast includes notable actors such as Miles Teller, Laura Harrier, Kat Graham, Larenz Tate, and Jessica Sula. This biopic aims to explore comprehensive aspects of Michael Jackson's life, detailing his illustrious career and the various legal issues he faced, including the 1993 lawsuit he settled involving allegations of child sexual abuse, as well as the 2005 trial in Santa Barbara, California, where he was acquitted of separate charges.

Michael Jackson Biopic Starring Jaafar Jackson Delayed to October 3, 2025

Lionsgate Anticipates High Expectations for the Film

Lionsgate's expectations for this biopic are substantial, with Jim Packer, the president of worldwide television distribution, expressing that this might be their biggest release yet. He emphasized the mounting excitement surrounding the film, which is directed by Antoine Fuqua, saying that the buzz has been extraordinary following each released photo. The film joins a series of successful musical biopics like those focusing on Elvis Presley, Elton John, and Freddie Mercury, indicating a trend in audience interest for such stories.

Michael Jackson Biopic Starring Jaafar Jackson Delayed to October 3, 2025

Production Insights and Trailers

Jaafar Jackson has been actively engaged in the production, having filmed various scenes across locations including downtown Los Angeles and Encino. A pivotal moment in marketing the film was a trailer that premiered at CinemaCon in Las Vegas, which was well received by audiences. In this preview, a poignant voiceover attributed to Katherine Jackson conveys support and encouragement to her son, emphasizing his uniqueness and the challenges he faced. Graham King, the film's producer, described the upcoming feature as an inside look into the life of one of the most prolific artists, incorporating drama and emotional complexity.

Michael Jackson Biopic Starring Jaafar Jackson Delayed to October 3, 2025

A Commitment to Authenticity

Graham King remarked on the dedication and extensive research involved in producing this film, stating that he has spent seven years conducting numerous interviews to achieve an authentic representation of Michael Jackson's life. He expressed confidence in Jaafar Jackson's role, highlighting the challenge of finding an actor for such a significant part, which he believes has been successfully met. King emphasized that the film will delve into all facets of Jackson's life, portraying him not just as a global icon but also as a man with a complicated existence under public scrutiny.

Michael Jackson Biopic Starring Jaafar Jackson Delayed to October 3, 2025