The first teaser for Michael, the long-awaited biopic of music legend Michael Jackson, has officially dropped, and it offers fans a striking first look at Jaafar Jackson stepping into his uncle’s shoes.
Set to hit theaters and IMAX on April 24th, 2026, Michael is directed by Antoine Fuqua, best known for Training Day, The Equalizer, and The Terminal List. The film explores both the global stardom and private life of one of music’s most influential figures, tracing Jackson’s evolution from the frontman of the Jackson 5 to his groundbreaking solo career.
In the teaser, Jaafar Jackson, son of Jermaine Jackson, channels his late uncle with remarkable authenticity. The brief footage shows him performing signature choreography, re-creating iconic visuals from Thriller and Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough, and working in the studio alongside producer Quincy Jones, portrayed by Kendrick Sampson.
According to the film’s synopsis, Michael promises to offer audiences “a front-row seat to Michael Jackson as never before,” capturing the artist’s creative drive and his pursuit of perfection both on and off the stage.
The cast also includes Colman Domingo as patriarch Joe Jackson, Nia Long as matriarch Katherine Jackson, Juliano Krue Valdi as young Michael, Kat Graham as Diana Ross, Miles Teller as lawyer John Branca, and Laura Harrier as music executive Suzanne de Passe.
The production, led by Graham King, John Branca, and John McClain, completed an additional 22 days of photography in mid-2025. Fuqua’s film marks Jaafar Jackson’s feature debut, with the young performer earning praise for his uncanny resemblance and movement that mirrors the King of Pop’s signature presence.
Lionsgate will distribute Michael in North America, while Universal Pictures handles the international rollout.
Michael opens April 24th, 2026, bringing one of the most influential musical stories of all time back to the big screen.
