Antoine Fuqua’s Michael Jackson biopic sets the stage for a 2026 event release…
The wait is finally over. Jaafar Jackson steps into the shoes of the King of Pop as Lionsgate reveals a music-driven, emotionally charged first look. Lionsgate has released the first official trailer for Michael, the highly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic set to moonwalk into theaters on April 24th, 2026. Directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring Jaafar Jackson—Michael’s real-life nephew—the film promises a sweeping blend of artistry, legacy, and the inner world of one of the most influential performers in music history.
A Teaser That Honors the Music, The Magic, And The Mystery
The one-minute teaser wastes no time setting the tone, weaving together energetic snippets from some of MJ’s most iconic hits: “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’,” “Don’t Stop ’til You Get Enough,” and “Billie Jean.” The montage showcases Jackson on the brink of creative breakthroughs, preparing to record with longtime collaborator Quincy Jones (played by Kendrick Sampson).
Throughout the teaser, Jones encourages Michael to “honor your past and embrace the future,” underscoring a theme that will likely echo through the film: embracing evolution while reconciling the forces that shaped him.
Quick flashes of Michael’s early life, glimpses of his family, and electrifying moments from his years atop global stardom build a portrait that feels both intimate and operatic. The trailer closes with a single spoken line from Jaafar Jackson—his delivery channeling his uncle’s unmistakable vocal cadence and breathy tone.
A Film Already Surrounded By Noise, Delays, and Expectation
Michael has been the center of discussion long before this teaser dropped. After initial reports claimed the film required significant reshoots due to legal limitations surrounding the portrayal of alleged victim Jordan Chandler—reports later denied by Lionsgate—the film was pushed from its original 2025 release date. Further speculation swirled around a rumored four-hour cut that was allegedly trimmed down for theatrical release.
Despite the setbacks, today’s trailer strongly repositions the film as a celebration of Jackson’s artistry and early career rise rather than a deep dive into controversy—at least for now.
Hints Of A Larger, More Complex Story Beneath the Surface
While the teaser focuses heavily on music, performance, and Jackson’s formative years, it leaves many questions unanswered. Notably absent is a substantive look at Joe Jackson, played by Colman Domingo, whose contentious presence loomed over Michael’s childhood and beyond.
Given Joe Jackson’s well-documented history, including allegations of emotional and physical abuse, the omission from the teaser suggests the marketing strategy is prioritizing anticipation over revelation. The teaser nods to turbulence without unpacking it, hinting instead at the complicated forces that forged a once-in-a-generation superstar. Whether the finished film will confront or carefully skirt the more controversial chapters of Jackson’s life remains to be seen.
A First Look That Electrifies And Complicates The Road Ahead
With explosive musical energy, evocative visuals, and a performance that already has audiences talking, Michael’s first teaser does exactly what it needs to: spark curiosity while reigniting global conversations about Jackson’s legacy.
As the project heads toward its 2026 release, it stands at the intersection of reverence, scrutiny, and artistic ambition—a biopic with both weight and worldwide expectations on its shoulders. And if this teaser is any indication, Antoine Fuqua and Jaafar Jackson are aiming for nothing less than a cinematic spectacle worthy of the King of Pop himself.