Thescreescore – After years of anticipation, the first trailer for Michael, the biopic chronicling the life and career of the King of Pop, has finally arrived. Set to hit theaters on April 24, 2026, the film, directed by Antoine Fuqua, stars Michael’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson, in the titular role, promising a captivating portrayal of the legendary performer.
The road to the screen hasn’t been smooth. Michael faced delays and rumors, including reports of extensive reshoots due to legal limitations regarding the portrayal of certain controversial figures, allegations which were later refuted by Lionsgate. The film’s release was pushed back from its initial 2025 date, accompanied by whispers of a reduced runtime from its originally planned four hours.
Now, Lionsgate Movies has offered a tantalizing glimpse into the world of Michael with a one-minute teaser. The trailer is a sonic tapestry, weaving together iconic Michael Jackson hits like "Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’," "Don’t Stop ’til You Get Enough," and "Billie Jean," creating an electrifying backdrop for the visuals.
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The trailer primarily focuses on Michael’s musical journey, showcasing moments of him in the studio with Quincy Jones, played by Kendrick Sampson, interspersed with fleeting glimpses of his electrifying stage presence and childhood with his family. Jones’ voiceover serves as a motivational guide, urging Michael to "honor your past and embrace the future." The teaser culminates with Jaafar Jackson’s impressive rendition of Michael’s signature breathy vocal style, leaving audiences eager for more.
Lionsgate has also unveiled the official poster for Michael, a collage of Jackson performing at various stages of his life, from his early days with The Jackson 5, portrayed by Juliano Krue Valdi, to his iconic red jacket era.
The initial impression from the trailer suggests that Michael will primarily celebrate Jackson’s musical genius and rise to superstardom, potentially sidestepping the more controversial aspects of his life. This approach has already sparked debate, with some critics expressing concerns about a potentially sanitized portrayal.
However, it’s crucial to remember that this is merely a teaser, offering only a fragmented glimpse of the film’s overall narrative. The extent to which the film will delve into the complexities of Michael’s life remains to be seen. For instance, Joe Jackson, Michael’s father, played by Colman Domingo, a figure known for his own controversies, is expected to play a significant role. While Joe Jackson is only briefly hinted at in the teaser, his presence suggests that the film will at least acknowledge the troubled past that shaped the pop icon. Whether Michael will fully confront these complexities or offer a more celebratory narrative remains to be discovered.
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