Michael has officially become the highest-grossing biopic of all time, surpassing Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer with a worldwide box office total of $977.4 million. The milestone comes just ten weeks into the film's theatrical run, making it the latest record-breaking achievement for the Michael Jackson biopic.

As audiences continue to turn out for the film, stars Jaafar Jackson and Nia Long reflected on the overwhelming response during the BET Awards. The pair expressed their gratitude after Michael reached the historic box office milestone.

So, what did they have to say after the film rewrote the record books?

Appearing together on stage at the BET Awards, Jaafar Jackson took a moment to acknowledge the audience that helped propel Michael to its latest achievement. The actor, who portrays his uncle Michael Jackson in the film, thanked fans for embracing the project throughout its theatrical run.

"We're so grateful for the love you all showed to our movie. You guys had the theatres packed, we're truly so humbled. Your support means the world to the Jackson Family," Jaafar said.

His remarks came as Michael officially overtook Oppenheimer's lifetime worldwide gross of $975.8 million. The Antoine Fuqua-directed biopic now stands at $977.4 million globally and is widely expected to become the second film of 2026 to cross the $1 billion mark.

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The emotional and joyous moment also allowed Nia Long to reflect on the woman she portrayed throughout the film.

Nia Long, who plays Michael Jackson's mother Katherine Jackson in the film, used the moment to speak about the lasting impact of the matriarch she portrayed on screen. She also praised Jaafar Jackson's performance as the King of Pop during the ceremony.

"Portraying Katherine Jackson reminded me that grace is quiet and still and tonight we honor that. Jaafar, it was a joy watching you transform into your uncle right before our eyes," she said.

The pair then introduced the BET Awards tribute celebrating artists who continue to carry forward the legacy of R&B and pop music, with Jaafar noting they were there to honor those keeping the genre alive before Long added that they had all been influenced by "the greatest… Michael Jackson."

As Michael continues its historic box office run, the film's success has also strengthened the possibility of expanding the story beyond a single installment. Producer Graham King has previously expressed interest in turning the project into a multi-film saga, with reports suggesting there is enough unused material from the original production to support at least one sequel exploring the later chapters of Michael Jackson's life.

With the biopic now standing as the highest-grossing of all time and closing in on the $1 billion mark worldwide, those discussions are expected to gain even more momentum.

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Have you watched Michael yet? What was your favorite performance or musical moment from the film? Let us know in the comments!