The highly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, has been delayed once again, leaving fans frustrated, confused, and curious about what’s really going on. Originally set for a 2025 release, the film is now expected to hit theaters as late as 2027 — a two-year postponement that hints at much more than just scheduling issues. From legal complications and production hurdles to financial strategy and intense public scrutiny, here’s everything we know about the delays surrounding the King of Pop’s big-screen portrayal.

Directed by Antoine Fuqua (Training Day, Emancipation) and starring Michael Jackson’s real-life nephew Jaafar Jackson, Michael was announced with high expectations. Fans were promised a sweeping cinematic journey — from Michael’s early days with the Jackson 5 to his explosive rise with Thriller, Bad, and beyond. Early production photos and casting news stirred excitement. However, that excitement quickly turned to silence. No trailers. No new updates. And eventually, a formal delay.

One of the most significant reasons for the postponement? Legal trouble. Sources report the film originally included a scene referencing the 1993 allegations against Jackson — a topic legally protected under a settlement with the Chandler family. The agreement explicitly forbids dramatizations or public depictions of the case, which forced the production to halt and rewrite major portions of the script. Entire scenes had to be scrapped, and reshoots were ordered, throwing the timeline into disarray.

Then came the idea of splitting the film into two parts. With a runtime reportedly exceeding three and a half hours, Lionsgate began considering releasing two separate films: one focusing on Michael’s childhood and early fame, and the other exploring his superstardom and personal battles. While this move could allow for a more detailed portrayal of his life, it also complicates production, editing, and marketing. New footage has to be filmed, scenes restructured, and pacing re-evaluated for two stand-alone features.

On the business front, Lionsgate recently removed Michael from its 2025 fiscal year lineup, aiming instead for a 2027 release. Why? Strategic timing. By shifting the film to a new fiscal year, Lionsgate hopes to boost their 2027 financials with what they expect to be a box office juggernaut. It’s a common move in Hollywood, meant to maximize returns — not necessarily a sign the movie is in creative trouble.

But external pressure is also playing a major role. Leaving Neverland director Dan Reed has publicly criticized the biopic, accusing it of whitewashing history and ignoring darker elements of Jackson’s life. This backlash has made the studio tread more carefully. With the estate, producers, and distributors working to protect Michael’s legacy while avoiding controversy, the creative process has become far more delicate.

Production challenges haven’t helped. Beyond legal rewrites and business decisions, scheduling conflicts, re-edits, and artistic disagreements have led to delays. Some scenes were reportedly reshot to better align with Michael’s real-life timeline. Even Jaafar Jackson, praised for his uncanny portrayal of his uncle, returned to film several new sequences. Sources say these weren’t due to bad performances but rather to expand the film — what was initially only half a story now needs to feel complete.

Interestingly, the film isn’t being reshot in the traditional sense. Instead, 22 new days of filming are scheduled for June 2025 to fill in narrative gaps. The expanded version of the film is now expected to conclude with Michael’s departure from the Jackson 5 and the launch of his solo career with Off the Wall. And yes — fan-favorite details like Bubbles the chimpanzee are said to make an appearance.

As of now, there is no official trailer and no confirmed release date, though early 2027 seems likely. Some speculate Lionsgate might aim for an Oscar-season release, hoping the film gains critical as well as commercial attention.

The fan base remains divided. Some believe the delays are necessary — a sign that the filmmakers are taking the time to get it right. Others are frustrated by the long wait, fearing that the movie might water down the truth or skip key moments. Still, most agree on one thing: if you’re going to tell Michael Jackson’s story, you have to do it justice. This isn’t just about a pop star. This is about legacy, truth, and history.

Whether Michael arrives in one part or two, in 2026 or 2027, one thing is certain — when it finally hits the screen, the world will be watching.