Lionsgate is placing its biggest bet yet on the King of Pop. With the highly anticipated Michael biopic set to hit theaters on April 18, 2025, excitement is reaching a fever pitch — and studio executives are boldly predicting this film will become Lionsgate’s highest-grossing movie ever, potentially breaking the billion-dollar box office ceiling.

But what’s fueling all this hype? From an A-list creative team to a never-before-seen family connection and decades of unmatched legacy, the film appears to have all the ingredients for a global cinematic phenomenon.

A Legacy Worth Telling

Directed by Antoine Fuqua (Training Day), written by John Logan (Gladiator, Skyfall), and produced by Graham King (Bohemian Rhapsody), Michael will delve into the life of Michael Jackson — the man, the myth, the legend. It promises to be an unflinching yet celebratory look at both his iconic career and complex personal journey.

From child prodigy to global icon, and through the shadows of controversy, the movie vows to show it all — including his legendary performances, creative genius, and personal battles behind the curtain.

Family at the Heart: Jafaar Jackson as Michael

In a stunning twist, Michael Jackson will be portrayed by none other than his real-life nephew, Jaafar Jackson — son of Jermaine Jackson. This marks Jaafar’s acting debut, but from early set images and video clips, it’s clear he’s channeling his uncle with uncanny accuracy.

Recently leaked photos from the Los Angeles set showed Jaafar in full 1980s costume, recreating the iconic “Thriller” music video in the same location where it was filmed in 1983. From the mullet haircut to the red leather jacket, Jaafar’s performance is already winning over longtime fans.

Recreating Iconic Moments

The film is expected to feature stunning recreations of Michael’s biggest moments: the moonwalk debut, Man in the Mirror, Victory Tour footage, and more. According to insiders, one performance scene in particular — Man in the Mirror — reportedly brought the cast and crew to tears, with many describing the moment as “spiritual”.

Production wrapped in May 2024 after five months of filming in California. A heartfelt Instagram post from GK Films read: “Thank you to the best cast and crew we could ever ask for. See you soon, Moonwalkers.”

A Star-Studded Cast

Alongside Jaafar, the biopic features a strong supporting cast including:

Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson

Nia Long as Katherine Jackson

Miles Teller, Laura Harrier, Kat Graham, Derek Luke, and Liron Tate

The emotional family dynamic and struggles behind Jackson’s rise to fame will be a core element, offering audiences a deeper understanding of the man behind the music.

High Hopes and Industry Buzz

Lionsgate’s Jim Packer, President of Worldwide Television Distribution, has not held back his excitement. “I think this will be the biggest movie we’ve ever had,” he declared, hinting at a billion-dollar box office target — a bold claim considering The Hunger Games: Catching Fire currently holds Lionsgate’s top spot at $865 million.

With a modest production budget of $155 million, Michael could easily become one of the most profitable biopics ever if it connects with audiences worldwide. Universal Pictures is also onboard to handle international distribution, increasing its global potential.

A Biopic Boom

Hollywood is no stranger to musical biopics — with recent hits like Bohemian Rhapsody, Elvis, Rocketman, and Bob Marley: One Love. However, Michael Jackson’s unparalleled fame, record-breaking sales, and iconic performances arguably position him as the most impactful artist to ever receive this cinematic treatment.

The film, however, is not without risk. Jackson remains a controversial figure, and critics wonder how the film will balance artistic reverence with an honest portrayal of the scandals and public scrutiny he endured. Still, fans appear undeterred, with many online already pledging to buy tickets as soon as they’re available.

Final Countdown Begins

With its April 18, 2025 release date set, Michael is expected to kick off the summer blockbuster season with a bang. Whether it leans into realism or legend, one thing is certain: the world will be watching.

In the words of a passionate fan online: “I don’t care what they say — I’m watching the magic unfold in theaters.”