Meet Jaafar Jackson: Michael Jackson’s Nephew Taking on the Role of the King of Pop in ‘Michael’
Fans are getting their first real glimpse into Michael Jackson’s life and legacy with the teaser trailer for Michael, the upcoming biopic about the pop legend. The film stars Jaafar Jackson, the son of Michael’s brother Jermaine Jackson, stepping into the shoes of his famous uncle to bring the story of the “King of Pop” to the big screen.
MICHAEL – in theaters April 24, 2026. pic.twitter.com/xd5Mj0c8yr
— Michael (@michaelmovie) November 6, 2025
Directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by John Logan, Michael boasts a star-studded cast. Colman Domingo plays Michael’s strict father and manager, Joe Jackson, while Nia Long portrays his mother, Katherine Jackson. Kat Graham takes on the role of Diana Ross, and Miles Teller appears as Michael’s lawyer and manager, John Branca. Young actor Juliano Krue Valdi plays Michael as a child.
In the teaser, Jaafar is seen recreating some of Michael’s most iconic looks, from the sparkling jackets to the wide-brimmed hats, while performing his signature dance moves. Many fans were quick to point out how closely Jaafar resembles his late uncle, both in appearance and mannerisms.
Jaafar’s connection to the role runs deep. Born in January 1996, he grew up as part of the legendary Jackson family. His father Jermaine, along with uncles Jackie, Marlon, Tito, Michael, and Randy, made up The Jackson 5, who sold more than 150 million records worldwide. His aunts Janet, La Toya, and Rebbie also enjoyed successful music careers, continuing the family’s musical tradition.
Before landing the role of Michael, Jaafar had already started building his own path in entertainment. In 2019, he released his debut single, “Got Me Singing,” followed by an appearance with his cousins in the reality show The Jacksons: Next Generation. Two years later, he teamed up with his uncle Tito Jackson and Stevie Wonder on the song “Love One Another.”
When Jaafar was officially cast as Michael in January 2023, he shared his excitement on Instagram, writing, “I’m humbled and honored to bring my uncle Michael’s story to life. To all the fans all over the world, I’ll see you soon.”
Producer Graham King, known for Bohemian Rhapsody, said the decision to cast Jaafar came after an extensive two-year global search. “I met Jaafar over two years ago and was blown away by how naturally he embodies the spirit and personality of Michael,” King said. “Even after a worldwide search, it was clear he was the only one who could play the role.”
Michael’s mother, Katherine Jackson, shared her pride in seeing her grandson take on the challenge. “Jaafar embodies my son,” she said. “It’s wonderful to see him carry on the Jackson legacy of entertainers and performers.”
The film, which has the cooperation of Michael Jackson’s estate, promises to explore both the artist’s achievements and controversies. Speaking to Variety in 2024, producer Graham King said, “Michael’s life was complicated. As a filmmaker, I look to humanize but not sanitize and let audiences decide how they feel after watching.”
To prepare for the role, Jaafar studied Michael’s performances in detail, perfecting his movements, voice, and stage presence. “My voice sits lower than my uncle Michael’s,” he said in 2024. “He had a higher pitch. We all share a similar tone in our voices — it’s strong family genes.”
Jaafar also has personal memories of his late uncle. He remembered spending time at Neverland Ranch as a child, playing games, watching movies, and enjoying family time. “I remember playing hide and seek, going on rides, watching movies, and just having a great time,” he said in a 2020 interview.
He also recalled seeing Michael perform live once, at The Jacksons’ 30th Anniversary show in New York, an experience that inspired him to pursue a career in music. Michael’s passing in 2009 had a profound impact on him. “It was very tough,” Jaafar said. “I can’t even put my mind back to how it felt that day.”
Off-screen, Jaafar has been in a long-term relationship with Maddie Simpson. The couple went public at a Quincy Jones tribute event in 2018. Simpson has been one of Jaafar’s biggest supporters, especially after his casting as Michael. “The dedication, focus, love, and care he has put into this role is truly unparalleled,” she wrote on Instagram. “I can’t wait for the world to see how exceptional he is.”
With Michael set for release in 2026, Jaafar’s portrayal is expected to bring new life to his uncle’s story, told through the eyes of someone who knew him not just as an icon, but as family.
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