Michael Jackson Biopic: Shooting New Scenes and Probably Two Films for "Michael"

Few productions have such a complicated development history as the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic. The industry portal The Hollywood Reporter has now shared further insights into "Michael" that are raising eyebrows.

A while ago, Deadline reported that the film could be split into two parts. According to the latest report, this now seems extremely likely. In addition, new scenes for the first film are scheduled to be shot in June 2025. However, this will not involve reshooting material that has already been filmed. Rather, it is about expanding the first film, which has only been half-finished so far.

Context of the Complicated Production

One reason for this unusual approach are the accusations of abuse against Jackson. One particular case was supposed to be the subject of the film. However, years earlier there was an agreement between a plaintiff and the Jackson family. It is said to have stipulated that the events were not to be dramatized (for example in the form of a feature film). According to a report by the portal Puck, Jackson's estate is said to have overlooked this agreement. As a result, a significant portion of the already filmed material was unusable.

The script and the general concept of the film therefore had to be restructured. The consequences of this are now probably the split into two films and the addition of new scenes. Apparently, the first part will now end with Michael leaving "The Jackson 5"

The biopic is directed by "The Equalizer" director Antoine Fuqua. Fuqua is also known for "Olympus Has Fallen" and "Training Day". The lead role is played by Michael Jackson's nephew Jaafar Jackson. The cast also includes other well-known names, for example Nia Long, Emmy Award-winner Colman Domingo and "Top Gun: Maverick" star Miles Teller.

The movie is currently still scheduled for release on October 3, 2025. This date will very likely not be met. Representatives of the studio Lionsgate have already stated that the release date will probably need to be moved to 2026.

Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson was one of the most influential figures in the history of pop music. His career spanned several decades and shaped music, dance, fashion, and pop culture like few other artists ever have. From child star with the Jackson 5 to the "King of Pop", Jackson's life was marked by breathtaking success, artistic innovation, as well as scandals and controversies.

The Early Years: Jackson 5

Michael Jackson was born on August 29, 1958 in Gary, Indiana. At a very young age, he began performing with his older brothers as part of the Jackson 5. With his extraordinary voice and stage presence, he quickly stood out. The group achieved notable success toward the end of the 1960s.

The Rise to King of Pop

In 1979, he released "Off the Wall", his first solo album produced by Quincy Jones. It was followed in 1982 by the legendary "Thriller", which remains the best-selling album of all time. With hits like "Billie Jean", "Beat It" and the title track "Thriller" Jackson revolutionized pop music. The music videos for these songs – especially the iconic "Thriller" clip – set new standards in the industry. His subsequent albums "Bad" (1987), "Dangerous" (1991), and "HIStory" (1995) solidified Jackson's status as a global superstar. His tours broke attendance records, his dance style – particularly the Moonwalk – became world-famous and his fashion sense defined an era.

Controversies and Darker Chapters

However, his later years were increasingly overshadowed by controversies and scandals. Allegations of child abuse, eccentric behavior, cosmetic surgeries, and his retreat into the private world of Neverland drew public scrutiny. The 2019 documentary "Leaving Neverland" reignited debates around his legacy. In the 2000s, Jackson largely withdrew from public life. In 2009, he announced a major concert series in London titled "This Is It". But before it could begin, Michael Jackson died on June 25, 2009 at the age of 50.

Legacy

His music continues to be streamed and listened to, his choreography studied, and his albums reissued. His artistry remains part of our collective cultural memory. Audiences will likely see his career brought to the big screen in 2026. "Michael" will join a wave of popular musical biopics in recent years. Stories of Freddie Mercury and Queen were portrayed in "Bohemian Rhapsody", and Elvis Presley's life was captured in "Elvis" with Austin Butler. Most recently, Bob Dylan's story was filmed in "A Complete Unknown" starring superstar Timothée Chalamet.