Lionsgate Exec Says that the Upcoming ‘Michael’ Biopic Will Be “the Biggest Movie We’ve Ever Had”
A new movie about Michael Jackson is coming soon from Lionsgate. The film, called Michael, will hit theaters on April 18, 2025. It’s a big deal for the studio, which sees it as their most important project ever.
Hollywood has been busy with musical biopics lately—think Elvis Presley, Amy Winehouse, and Bob Marley—and now the “King of Pop” is getting his turn on the big screen.
Lionsgate’s Jim Packer, who handles worldwide TV distribution, shared his excitement with the press. He said, “It’s clear it’s going to be an IP-focused company. It’s going to produce, distribute, film and TV. The buzz that we’re getting every time a photo gets released is kind of crazy. And I think that’ll be the biggest movie we’ve ever had.”
His confidence shows how much faith the studio has in this film, even though Jackson’s life story comes with controversy.
The movie promises to tell Jackson’s full story. According to Lionsgate, “Michael will bring audiences a riveting and honest portrayal of the brilliant yet complicated man who became known worldwide as the King of Pop. This epic, cinematic film will examine Jackson’s triumphs and tragedies — from his human side, to his public and private struggles, to the accusations and the 24/7 media microscope Jackson lived under, even at his artistic apex. The all-star filmmaking team will also capture Michael’s undeniable creative genius, recreating his most memorable, iconic performances. As never before, audiences will experience an inside look at one of the most influential, trailblazing artists the world has ever known.” It’s a bold take on a larger-than-life figure.
Antoine Fuqua is directing, working from a script by John Logan. The cast is packed with talent. Jaafar Jackson, Michael’s nephew, will play the lead role, while Juliano Krue Valdi takes on young Michael.
Other big names include Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, and Miles Teller as John Branca, Jackson’s lawyer. The Jackson siblings are covered too—Jamal R. Henderson as Jermaine, Jayden Harville as young Jermaine, Tre Horton as Marlon, Jaylen Lyndon Hunter as young Marlon, Rhyan Hill as Tito, Judah Edwards as young Tito, Joseph David-Jones as Jackie, and Nathaniel Logan McIntyre as young Jackie.
Beyond the family, there’s Kat Graham as Diana Ross, Larenz Tate as Berry Gordy, Jessica Sula as La Toya Jackson, Liv Symone as Gladys Knight, Kevin Shinick as Dick Clark, KeiLyn Durrel Jones as Bill Bray, Kendrick Sampson as Quincy Jones, Laura Harrier as Suzanne de Passe, and Derek Luke as Johnnie Cochran.
This lineup shows the film’s scope. It’s not just about music—it’s about Jackson’s whole world, from family to fame. Packer also mentioned Lionsgate’s Hunger Games plans, but Michael is the main focus here. With such a big cast and a director like Fuqua, the studio is betting big. Fans are already buzzing every time new details drop. More updates will come as the release date nears.