Overview
- Lionsgate unveiled the initial footage featuring Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson in Antoine Fuqua’s studio-backed biopic.
- The teaser highlights recreated moments such as a “Thriller” sequence, a Dodger Stadium show prep, and studio scenes with Quincy Jones portrayed by Kendrick Sampson.
- The film is slated for theaters and IMAX on April 24, 2026, with Lionsgate handling U.S. distribution and Universal managing the global launch.
- Production wrapped in May 2024 but required 22 days of additional photography in June 2025, following multiple release-date shifts and reports the project might be split, which the teaser does not indicate.
- Credits include writer John Logan and producers Graham King, John Branca, and John McClain, with coverage noting reported legal complications, a reported $155 million budget, and public dispute over the extent of family involvement.