'Michael' is Here: The Michael Jackson Biopic is Shattering Box Office Records Worldwide!
The King of Pop has officially reclaimed his throne at the global box office. After years of anticipation, delays, and massive hype, the definitive Michael Jackson biopic, simply titled Michael, has finally moonwalked into theaters worldwide this weekend (April 24, 2026).
Directed by Antoine Fuqua and backed by the Jackson estate, the film promises to give fans a deeply personal look at the man behind the music. But the biggest talking point of the entire movie isn't just the iconic music—it is the unbelievable, uncanny lead performance by Michael's real-life nephew, Jaafar Jackson.
With opening weekend numbers already breaking historical records, Michael is proving that the world's obsession with the King of Pop is as strong as ever. Here is everything you need to know about the movie, the reviews, and its massive box office debut!
Smashing Box Office Records
If you thought Bohemian Rhapsody was big, think again. Michael is currently projected to obliterate the record for the biggest opening weekend ever for a musical biopic.
Industry trackers are predicting a staggering $65M to $80M domestic opening weekend in the US alone. Globally, the film is looking at a massive $140M to $150M launch. It has already broken preview night records, pulling in over $12.6 million on its very first night. Fans are rushing to theaters to experience iconic moments like the legendary "Motown 25" performance and the making of the Thriller music video on the biggest screen possible.
Jaafar Jackson is the Ultimate Reincarnation
The absolute standout of the movie is 29-year-old Jaafar Jackson. Playing his late uncle was a monumental task, but audiences are collectively agreeing that his performance is nothing short of breathtaking.
From the exact vocal inflections to the razor-sharp dance moves, Jaafar brings an authenticity to the screen that no other Hollywood actor could have replicated. Alongside Jaafar, Colman Domingo is receiving massive praise for his intense portrayal of the controversial Jackson family patriarch, Joe Jackson.
Critics vs. Audiences: The Review Divide
While the movie is making insane amounts of money, it is highly divisive when it comes to reviews.
There is currently a massive gap between critics and fans. Critics have given the film a harsh 40% on Rotten Tomatoes, criticizing the movie for being a "sanitized" version of Jackson's life because it completely avoids the controversies and child abuse allegations from his later years.
However, Audiences are absolutely loving it. The film boasts a near-perfect 96% Audience Score and a rare A- CinemaScore. For the fans, the movie is a pure, unadulterated celebration of the greatest entertainer who ever lived.
The Legacy of the True King of Pop
Before Jaafar Jackson moonwalked onto the big screen, there was only one King of Pop. Michael Jackson completely revolutionized the global entertainment industry, breaking racial barriers on MTV, inventing gravity-defying dance moves, and delivering the best-selling album in human history, Thriller.
Tragically, the world lost the music icon on June 25, 2009, when he passed away suddenly at the age of 50 due to cardiac arrest. His unexpected death sent absolute shockwaves across the globe, literally crashing the internet as millions of fans mourned the loss of a once-in-a-lifetime talent.
Now, nearly 17 years after his heartbreaking passing, seeing his story brought back to life by his own flesh and blood is exactly why theaters are packed with emotional, teary-eyed fans this weekend. For millions of people, this movie isn't just a cinematic experience—it is a chance to say goodbye to their idol all over again.
