A biopic about Michael Jackson is in the works! Emancipation director Antoine Fuqua has been tapped to direct a biopic on the late, legendary icon titled Michael, reports Deadline.
“The first films of my career were music videos, and I still feel that combining film and music are a deep part of who I am,” said Fuqua to Deadline. “For me, there is no artist with the power, the charisma, and the sheer musical genius of Michael Jackson. I was influenced to make music videos by watching his work – the first Black artist to play in heavy rotation on MTV. His music and those images are part of my worldview, and the chance to tell his story on the screen alongside his music was irresistible.”
The movie is being made with the cooperation of Jackson’s family and estate.
“‘Michael” will give audiences an in-depth portrayal of the man and our brother who became the King of Pop,” the Jackson family released in a statement last February. “It will bring to life Michael’s most iconic performances as it gives an informed insight into his artistic process and personal life.”
Here’s everything we know about Michael so far.
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What will Michael be about?
The film will chronicle Jackson’s rise to fame from a child star in the Jackson 5 to becoming the King of Pop and one of the greatest performers of all time until his death from cardiac arrest at the age of 50 in 2009.
The script was written by John Logan. It will be produced by Bohemian Rhapsody’s Graham King, as well as John Branca and John McClain, who are co-executors of Jackson’s estate. Fuqua is currently working on The Equalizer 3 and is known for his work on films such as Brooklyn’s Finest, The Magnificent Seven, and his directorial debut, The Replacement Killers. He’s also directed documentaries What’s My Name: Muhammad Ali on HBO and Legacy: The True Story of the LA Lakers on Hulu.
“Antoine’s films provide personal perspectives of larger-than-life characters that continuously captivate global audiences,” said King. “I’m confident that Antoine will make an exceptional and compelling film that will both celebrate and give profound new insights into the life of the King of Pop.”
Michael Jackson’s nephew will play him in the biopic
Jaafar Jackson, the son of Jermaine Jackson, will portray his late uncle in the biopic.
“I’m humbled and honored to bring my Uncle Michael’s story to life. To all the fans all over the world, I’ll see you soon,” Jackson tweeted about the casting.
King said his team “worldwide search” for the role, he said in a statement, and “was blown away by the way he [Jaafar] organically personifies the spirit and personality of Michael.”
“It was clear that he is the only person to take on this role,” said King. “I am beyond thrilled that he has come on board to portray his uncle and cannot wait for the world to see him on the big screen as Michael Jackson.”
I’m humbled and honored to bring my Uncle Michael’s story to life. To all the fans all over the world, I’ll see you soon.
Photo by Jourdynn Jackson pic.twitter.com/Xow9Mkakup
— Jaafar Jackson (@JaafarJackson) January 30, 2023
When will Michael be released?
A release date has not been set yet for Michael but production will begin later this year.
