The highly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic Michael, directed by Antoine Fuqua, may be divided into two separate films, potentially delaying its current October 3 release date.
The Lionsgate and Universal Pictures International project was a major highlight at last year’s CinemaCon, but no footage was showcased during this year’s event. Despite wrapping principal photography in May 2024, the film’s script—penned by John Logan—is undergoing revisions ahead of scheduled reshoots.
Produced by Bohemian Rhapsody’s Graham King, Michael boasts a substantial budget of approximately $155 million. The film stars Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson’s nephew, making his screen debut in the lead role. The ensemble cast includes Colman Domingo and Nia Long as Jackson’s parents, Joe and Katherine Jackson, while Miles Teller portrays his attorney and advisor, John Branca. Larenz Tate takes on the role of Motown founder Berry Gordy, with Laura Harrier as music executive Suzanne de Passe and Kat Graham as Diana Ross.
Additional cast members include Jessica Sula as La Toya Jackson, Liv Symone as Gladys Knight, Kevin Shinick as Dick Clark, KeiLyn Durrel Jones as Michael’s former security guard Bill Bray, and Kendrick Sampson as legendary producer Quincy Jones. The latter played a pivotal role in Michael Jackson’s career, producing three of his most iconic albums: Off the Wall (1979), Thriller (1982), and Bad (1987).