The legacy of the King of Pop takes center stage once again as Lionsgate releases a powerful new official trailer for Michael, the highly anticipated biopic chronicling the life, music, and family roots of Michael Jackson. Set to hit theaters and IMAX screens on April 24th, the film stars Jaafar Jackson—Michael’s real-life nephew—in a feature film debut that is already sparking global conversation.
More than a story of superstardom, the newly released trailer digs deep into the foundation of a legend, spotlighting the Jackson family’s early years and the complex forces that shaped one of the most influential artists of all time.
“In this life, you’re either a winner or you’re a loser,” — Joe Jackson, portrayed by Colman Domingo, delivering a chilling yet defining call to action as both father and manager of what would become The Jackson Five.
The moment embodies the film’s emotional core as ambition, discipline, sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. Balancing that intensity is a moment of warmth and belief from Nia Long, who portrays Michael’s mother, Katherine Jackson.
“I knew you were different the moment you were born. You have a special light.”
It’s a reminder that behind the spectacle was a child with an undeniable gift recognized long before the world ever applauded.
A Star Is Reborn
Jaafar Jackson’s portrayal has already drawn widespread praise, particularly for his uncanny recreation of Michael’s signature movements, including the legendary moonwalk. The trailer reinforces what audiences sensed from the first teaser. This is not imitation, but inheritance. An embodiment that feels both authentic and deeply personal.
The initial teaser, released in early November, shattered records, amassing 116.2 million views globally within 24 hours, making it the most-viewed music biopic trailer in history and Lionsgate’s largest trailer debut ever. Momentum continued as the studio strategically purchased a Grammy Awards TV commercial to tease the full trailer’s release, signaling the film’s cultural weight and awards-season ambition.
A Vision Guided By Acclaimed Talent
Directed by Antoine Fuqua, Michael has endured several release date shifts, most recently moving from a fall 2025 slot to its newly locked April 24 theatrical debut. The extended timeline appears to have been used to refine a project that carries immense responsibility honoring an icon whose influence transcends generations, genres, and borders.
The film boasts a formidable supporting cast, including: Miles Teller as longtime attorney John Branca, Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, Kat Graham as Diana Ross, Laura Harrier as Suzanne de Passe, Kendrick Sampson as Quincy Jones, and Juliano Krue Valdi as a young Michael
Lionsgate will handle domestic distribution, while Universal oversees the global rollout further highlighting the film’s worldwide reach.
Not Just Another Biopic — A Cultural Event
Nonetheless, Michael is shaping up to be more than a retelling of a life story. It’s positioned as a cinematic event, revisiting the triumphs, pressures, and humanity behind the man who revolutionized music, performance, and pop culture forever.
With its emotionally charged trailer, meticulous casting, and historic early reception, Michael is not just inviting audiences to remember the King of Pop. In fact, it’s asking them to witness the journey that made him immortal. Come April 24th, the world moonwalks back into history.