Michael Trailer: Jaafar Jackson Shines as the King of Pop

‘Michael’ Trailer: Jaafar Jackson Steps Into His Uncle’s Shoes as the King of Pop

Lionsgate has dropped the first official trailer for “Michael,” director Antoine Fuqua’s much-anticipated biopic about the life of Michael Jackson, the legendary King of Pop. The teaser will make its theatrical debut before Now You See Me: Now You Don’t.

Image source: x/michaeljackson

Jaafar Jackson Transforms Into Michael Jackson

In the film, Jaafar Jackson — Michael Jackson’s real-life nephew — takes on the monumental task of portraying his uncle. The trailer opens inside a music studio, where Quincy Jones, played by Kendrick Sampson, tells him:

“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 the words fade, the screen bursts into a montage of moments from Jackson’s incredible life — from his Jackson 5 childhood to his record-breaking performances and the unforgettable Thriller era. All of this plays against the energetic rhythm of “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’,” setting the tone for a story filled with passion and legacy.

MICHAEL - in theaters April 24, 2026 #MichaelMovie pic.twitter.com/CzmEuwTcFi

— Michael Jackson (@michaeljackson) November 6, 2025

A Star-Studded Cast Brings the Story to Life

Alongside Jaafar, the film features an impressive ensemble:

• Miles Teller as attorney and adviser John Branca

• Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Michael’s father

• Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, his mother

• Jessica Sula as sister LaToya Jackson

• Larenz Tate as Motown founder Berry Gordy

• Laura Harrier as music executive Suzanne de Passe

• Kat Graham as Diana Ross

Other notable cast members include Liv Symone as Gladys Knight, Kevin Shinick as Dick Clark, and KeiLyn Durrel Jones as Bill Bray — Jackson’s longtime confidant.

Image source: x/michaeljackson

From Production to Release: What to Expect

Originally scheduled for October 3, 2025, Michael will now arrive in theaters on April 24, 2026. The film wrapped shooting in May 2024, though additional reshoots later sparked rumors that it might be split into two parts. Judging by the trailer, however, it seems to remain a single, feature-length film.

#MichaelMovie pic.twitter.com/gpn0l7HBkA

— Michael Jackson (@michaeljackson) November 6, 2025

An Intimate Look at an Icon’s Life

According to the official synopsis, Michael “explores the global superstar’s journey to become known to the world as the King of Pop, presenting an intimate look at his life and enduring legacy.”

With a screenplay by John Logan (Alien: Covenant, Rango), the film promises to blend the spectacle of Jackson’s performances with the complexity of his personal story. Graham King, John Branca, and John McClain produce, with David B. Householter serving as executive producer.

Image source: x/michaeljackson

From the looks of this first trailer, Michael aims to capture not just the performer — but the man behind the music. With Jaafar Jackson’s uncanny resemblance and emotional authenticity, fans may finally get a cinematic tribute worthy of the King of Pop.