Lionsgate and Common will launch a brand new Michael Jackson biopic in 2025, promising to profile a ‘good but sophisticated man.’
Lionsgate has introduced the start of manufacturing on director Antoine Fuqua’s “Michael,” a brand new Michael Jackson biopic starring Jaafar Jackson. Manufacturing begins January 22, with the movie slated for an April 18, 2025 launch.
Scripted by John Logan (“Gladiator,” “The Aviator,”) and produced by Graham King (“Bohemian Rhapsody,”) the movie follows “the sophisticated man who turns into the King of Pop, from triumphs to tragedies, from his human aspect and private struggles to his inventive genius.” John Branca and John McClain, co-executors of the Michael Jackson Property, additionally function producers.
“Michael” has been within the pipeline since late 2019, with King having secured the rights from the Michael Jackson Property to all of the late singer-songwriter’s music. Lionsgate snatched up the mission in February 2022, and can launch the film stateside, whereas Common handles worldwide distribution.
Jaafar Jackson, the 27-year-old nephew of Michael and son of former Jackson 5 member Jermaine, landed the title position in January final 12 months. Director Fuqua says it’s “uncanny how a lot he’s like Michael… seems like him, dances like him, sings. It’s actually uncanny. Graham King, who’s a incredible producer, discovered him and launched him to me, and I used to be blown away.”
“I’m so honored to inform Michael’s story,” says King. “It’s been an extended journey and I’m excited for the movie to indicate audiences world wide a perspective of Michael that they’ve by no means seen.”
“Michael Jackson was inarguably one of many best entertainers of all time. His affect on music, video, artwork, vogue, tradition — and a lot extra — was extraordinary and continues to be profoundly related,” provides Adam Fogelson, Chair of the Lionsgate Movement Image Group. “I can’t anticipate audiences to have the ability to see this movie in theaters worldwide subsequent 12 months.”
Lionsgate insists the movie will cowl “all facets of Jackson’s life,” nevertheless it stays to be seen how or if it would deal with Michael’s numerous controversies, notably given the property’s involvement. Jackson’s property has vehemently defended him in opposition to accusations of sexually abusing youngsters, even when HBO’s 2019 documentary, “Leaving Neverland,” returned these accusations to the general public eye.