Michael Jackson – the legendary American singer, songwriter, and producer, dominated the music industry in the 70s and 80s with his R&B, funk, disco, rock, and hip-hop songs. People still affectionately refer to him as the ‘King of Pop.”
Guess what? Michael Jackson’s life is now being adapted into a movie. Lionsgate (the domestic distributor for the film) revealed in January 2023 that they’re making a biopic about the King of Pop and keeping it simple with the title Michael.
The film is currently in production, and MJ’s biopic cast includes Colman Domingo, Jaafar Jackson, and Nia Long. Know how well they match their real counterparts?
Meet the Star-Studded Cast of Michael Jackson’s Biopic
The casting announcement for Michael follows the news that Jaafar Jackson, the real-life nephew of the King of Pop, is taking on the lead role. The Rustin star Colman Domingo and Big Momma’s House actress Nia Long are joining him.
Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson’s legacy continues with a family member. It was announced a year ago (January 2023) that Jackson’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson, is set to portray the music legend in his first major feature film.
Jaafar Jackson has been singing and dancing since age 12, making him the perfect fit for the role. “It’s uncanny how much he’s like Michael. Sounds like him, dances like him, sings,” director Antoine Fuqua told EW.
Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson
After receiving acclaim for Rustin and an Oscar nod, Colman Domingo shows no signs of slowing down. The now Oscar nominee lands the controversial role of Joe Jackson, the father of Michael Jackson, described as the “hard-driving, singularly focused, controversial patriarch of the Jackson family.”
The 54-year-old reflected, saying he’s “fortunate to have a rich, complex, and flawed character to portray in Joe Jackson” in the statement (via Entertainment Weekly).
Nia Long as Katherine Jackson
Yesterday, Lionsgate announced that Nia Long is stepping into the role of Katherine Jackson, the mother of The Gloved One. She’s set to portray the matriarch in the Michael Jackson biopic.
“Katherine Jackson is an incredible pillar of strength and grace for the entire Jackson family,” Long said in a statement (via Deadline). The 53-year-old star feels “honored to bring her voice to the screen.”
More About the Upcoming Michael Jackson Biopic
According to Michael’s official synopsis, it “will bring audiences a riveting and honest portrayal of the brilliant yet complicated man who became the King of Pop.” The statement continues (via Variety):
“The film presents his triumphs and tragedies on an epic, cinematic scale — from his human side and personal struggles to his undeniable creative genius, exemplified by his most iconic performances. As never before, audiences will experience an inside look into one of the most influential, trailblazing artists the world has ever known.”
Antoine Fuqua, the director behind The Equalizer movies, will be in charge of the Michael Jackson biopic. Graham King, the producer of Bohemian Rhapsody, is producing the movie.
Michael is slated to hit theaters on April 18, 2025.
