*Nia Long will portray Katherine Jackson in the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic “Michael,” directed by Antoine Fuqua.
Lionsgate and Universal Pictures International have slated the worldwide release on April 18th, 2025. The film is now in production, according to a press release.
We reported earlier that Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson is set to star as the late King of Pop. Jaafar, the son of Jermaine Jackson and Alejandra Genevieve Oaziaza, will make his acting debut with “Michael.”
“There was such a spiritual connection when I first met Jaafar, who has a natural ability to emulate Michael and such a great chemistry with the camera,” Fuqua told Variety.
Per The Jasmine Brand, the biopic’s synopsis reads: “‘Michael’ will bring audiences a riveting and honest portrayal of the brilliant yet complicated man who became the King of Pop. The film presents his triumphs and tragedies on an epic, cinematic scale — from his human side and personal struggles to his undeniable creative genius, exemplified by his most iconic performances. As never before, audiences will experience an inside look into one of the most influential, trailblazing artists the world has ever known.”
Emmy Award-winning actor Colman Domingo will portray MJ’s father, Joe Jackson, in the biopic.
“Colman has such incredible range – he puts in the work to deeply inhabit his characters and understand their true essence and motivation. I’m grateful to be working with an actor with his passion and ability to portray the many sides of Joe Jackson: a husband, a father and a manager,” said Fuqua.
“Beyond Nia’s incredible talent, I was deeply moved by her connection to the material and her commitment to honoring Katherine and the love she had for her son,” said producer Graham King/GK Films.
Fuqua added, “Nia has delivered iconic performances throughout her career. I’ve been a fan for a long time because her characters stay with you. I’m excited to now work alongside her as she pours all of that into Katherine Jackson: a woman who was the glue, the rock, and the heart of the Jackson family during its best and its most turbulent times.”
Long said, “Katherine Jackson is an incredible pillar of strength and grace for the entire Jackson family. As a mother, she was selfless and endured forces beyond her control yet still managed to help build a legacy beyond measure. I am honored to bring her voice to the screen and share Michael Jackson’s story with audiences everywhere.”
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