Lionsgate has announced a significant shift in the release schedule for its highly anticipated ‘Michael’, the biographical film chronicling the life of pop legend Michael Jackson. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film, which was originally set to premiere on April 18, 2025, has now been pushed back to October 3, 2025, according to The Hollywood Reporter1.
This new release date places it in a busy fall season for Lionsgate, which has another major film, Aziz Ansari’s comedy ‘Good Fortune’, also scheduled for release that year. The delay has sparked renewed interest in the project, which stars Jaafar Jackson, the nephew of the late pop icon, in the title role1.
Jaafar Jackson, whose resemblance to his famous uncle has captured attention, leads an ensemble cast that includes Nia Long, Laura Harrier, Miles Teller, and Colman Domingo. The film, written by John Logan, explores both the public and personal life of Michael Jackson, aiming to offer a nuanced portrayal of the man behind the music1.
Key Highlights of the Film:
- Storyline: The film will depict Michael Jackson’s life and career from his time with the Jackson 5 as a child in the 1960s and 1970s to his final weeks before his death in 2009. It will address his legal battles, including his 1993 settlement in response to allegations of child abuse and his 2005 trial in Santa Barbara, California, where he faced separate accusations and was ultimately acquitted3.
- Cast: Jaafar Jackson stars as Michael Jackson, with Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, Miles Teller as John Branca, Laura Harrier as Suzanne de Passe, and other notable actors portraying key figures in Jackson’s life.
- Music: The film will feature 30 of Michael Jackson’s most iconic songs, providing a musical journey through his career.
- Production: Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film is produced by Graham King, John Branca, and John McClain. The project has been a labor of love for Fuqua, who shared his deep personal connection to Jackson’s music and life during a panel at San Diego Comic-Con1.
Director’s Vision:
During a panel at San Diego Comic-Con, Fuqua spoke passionately about the project, highlighting the deep personal connection he feels to Jackson’s life and music. “Michael was a big part of my life growing up, a big influence on my career, an incredible artist — but he was a human being, and we’re exploring that,” Fuqua remarked1.
Producer’s Insight:
Producer Graham King revealed that the film will have a lengthy runtime to ensure that Jackson’s story is told in full, with the music playing an integral part in the narrative. “This film is about more than just the music,” King said at CinemaCon, adding, “It’s about exploring Michael Jackson’s journey as both an artist and a person — his genius, his struggles, and the impact he made on the world4.”
The delay in the release date is expected to heighten anticipation for the film, which promises to be a cinematic tribute to one of the greatest entertainers of all time. Fans of the King of Pop have been eagerly awaiting the chance to see his life on the big screen, and this new delay will only add to the excitement.
