When Michael Jackson’s long-awaited biopic Michael was first announced in 2023, it immediately made headlines across the film and music worlds. At the time, details were scarce, but the promise of a definitive big-screen portrait of the King of Pop was enough to spark global interest. Over the past two years, the project has steadily taken shape.

Now, with the film aiming for an April 2026 release, fans are especially eager to see how Jackson’s iconic family and inner circle will be recreated on screen.

As reported by Deadline, the casting of Michael began early. Director Antoine Fuqua and producer Graham King tried to cast Michael Jackson’s nephew and Jermaine Jackson’s son, Jaafar Jackson, to portray MJ in the singer’s prime. The decision was widely praised.

Especially after early images and footage revealed how closely Jaafar Jackson resembles his famous uncle, his role was almost immediately locked, back in 2023, as per Deadline. Young actor Juliano Krue Valdi has been cast as the younger version of Michael.

Beyond the lead role, the supporting cast brings together a strong ensemble. Colman Domingo and Nia Long will play Jackson’s parents, Joe and Katherine Jackson, while Miles Teller has been cast as longtime Jackson attorney John Branca.

Several actors will portray Jackson’s brothers at different ages. Jermaine will be played by Jayden Harville and Jamal R. Henderson; Marlon by Jaylen Lyndon Hunter and Tre Horton; Tito by Judah Edwards and Rhyan Hill; and Jackie by Nathaniel Logan McIntyre and Joseph David-Jones.

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With such an expansive cast, the film appears committed to portraying the full Jackson family dynamic, not just Michael Jackson’s solo fame.

Michael is positioned as a comprehensive portrait of the pop legend’s life. The film will trace Michael Jackson’s journey from his early days as the front man of the Jackson 5 to becoming the biggest music star on the planet. The biopic will also address the darker chapters of his life, including the allegations that followed him in later years.

It will also cover events leading up to his death in 2009 at age 50. Jaafar Jackson is reportedly performing many of the musical numbers himself, adding another layer of authenticity to the portrayal. Originally planned for a 2025 release, the film faced production delays and was ultimately pushed to April 24,2026, reportedly to allow for additional filming and post-production.

Few artists have left a cultural footprint as large as Michael Jackson. His life, however, was as complex as his career, marked by extraordinary success, relentless media scrutiny, and deeply polarizing controversies. With its ambitious scope and sensitive subject matter, Michael faces the challenge of balancing celebration with controversy.

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As more details emerge, fans will be watching closely. Will Michael live up to the legend? Share your thoughts and expectations.