Set to be helmed by Antoine Fuqua, known for directing the Denzel Washington-led The Equalizer series, the biographical drama about the King of Pop has included Nia Long in the cast. With Michael Jackson’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson, cast to play his uncle, often regarded as the greatest the world of Pop had to offer, Long will helm the role of Jackson’s mother, Katherine Jackson.
Reflecting on Long’s casting as the matriarch of the Jackson family, The Emancipation director expressed that he is thrilled to join forces with the Friday Star.
Nia Long Is Committed to Honoring Katherine Jackson
Past her acting prowess, producer Graham King, known for priorly working in Bohemian Rhapsody, expressed that he was deeply moved by Long’s “commitment to honoring Katherine”. Antoine Fuqua, who delved into his love for the characters Nia Long has played throughout the years, stressed he is excited to work with the actor, as he shared his admiration for Katherine Jackson.
Fuqua said in a statement (via Deadline),
“Nia has delivered iconic performances throughout her career. I’ve been a fan for a long time because her characters stay with you. I’m excited to now work alongside her as she pours all of that into Katherine Jackson: a woman who was the glue, the rock, and the heart of the Jackson family during its best and its most turbulent times.”
Alongside Nia Long, Academy Award nominee Colman Domingo, who became the first Afro-Latino to be nominated for the Best Actor accolade, has been cast to play the patriarch of the family.
Colman Domingo Is Excited to Witness Jermaine Jackson Step Into MJ’s Shoes
With Michael set to dive deep into the complicated legacy of the Smooth Criminal singer, the Rustin Star expressed that he is enticed to helm the part of Joe Jackson, MJ’s father. Furthermore, Colman Domingo shared his excitement to work with the impeccable cast Graham King has assembled, especially Jackson’s nephew Jermaine Jackson. He told Variety:
“Jermaine Jackson’s son is playing Michael, and he is breathtaking, and I think Graham King, the producer, has assembled an incredible cast. I’m excited to be a part of a film that explores both the complicated soul of the legendary Michael Jackson as well as his impact on music and culture as a global icon. Not only am I fortunate to have a rich, complex and flawed character to portray in Joe Jackson, but I also have a front row seat for Jaafar’s incredible transformation.”
Nia Long, who previously complained about being left out in casting conversations, stated she is honored to star as Katherine Jackson, who was the pillar of strength and grace in the Jackson family.
Michael is slated for release on 18 April 2025.
