Even years after his passing, Michael Jackson’s presence never seems to fade. His image, music, and legacy continue to circulate through pop culture as if he never truly left the spotlight.
From era-defining music videos like Thriller and Black or White, to ambitious short films such as Moonwalker and Ghosts, Jackson consistently reshaped how music and visual storytelling intersected. Add to that concert films, the posthumous behind-the-scenes project This Is It, and an endless stream of documentaries examining every side of his life — brilliant, complicated, and controversial — and it’s clear why public fascination endures.
Now, that legacy is set to continue with Michael, the upcoming biopic that aims to tell the King of Pop’s story on the big screen. Here’s what we know so far, from casting choices and creative leadership to release plans — and even speculation that the film could eventually expand beyond a single installment.
Portraying young Michael
The role of a young Michael Jackson will be played by Juliano Krue Valdi, a nine-year-old dancer and social media personality with a growing following for his Jackson-inspired performances and fashion.
For Valdi, the role is deeply personal. He has been dancing to Michael Jackson’s music for years and credits it with shaping his confidence and creativity.
“Michael Jackson is very special to my heart,” Valdi said. “His music makes me feel happy and strong. I love his energy.”
Producer Graham King drew a powerful parallel between the two, noting that Michael astonished the world at just 11 years old with talent far beyond his age — something he believes Juliano shares.
The supporting cast
Stepping into the role of Joe Jackson, Michael’s father, is Colman Domingo, an Emmy-winning actor best known for Euphoria and his Oscar-nominated performance in Rustin. Domingo described the role as both challenging and meaningful.
“I’m excited to explore the complex inner world of Michael Jackson while also portraying Joe Jackson — a deeply flawed but important figure in his life,” Domingo said. “Watching Jaafar transform has been extraordinary.”
Like many major Hollywood productions, Michael faced setbacks due to the writers’ and actors’ strikes that disrupted the industry in 2023 and 2024. Originally scheduled to begin filming in mid-2023, production was delayed until late January 2024 and wrapped in May of that year.
The film’s release date has shifted multiple times. Initially planned for April 2025, it was later moved to October 2025 before being delayed again to April 24, 2026. Reports suggest the changes stem largely from the film’s ambitious scope, with a runtime reportedly exceeding three and a half hours.
At one point, industry insiders speculated that the biopic could be split into two parts — an idea reportedly discussed behind the scenes. While the trailer released in November 2025 appeared to confirm a single theatrical release, Lionsgate executives have not ruled out expanding the story further.
Following the trailer’s debut, Lionsgate chair Adam Fogelson hinted that more could be on the horizon.
“While we’re not ready to confirm a second film just yet,” he said, “the creative team is actively working to ensure we can deliver more Michael after the first chapter reaches audiences.”
Whether one film or more, Michael is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious music biopics ever attempted — a testament to an artist whose influence continues to echo across generations.