Michael Jackson Biopic Postponed to 2026: Here’s What We Know

It’s official: the Michael Jackson biopic, simply titled Michael, is moonwalking its way into spring 2026 instead of landing in theaters this fall. So yes, another delay—but one that might just lead to something epic.

Directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring MJ’s real-life nephew Jaafar Jackson, the film promises to explore the King of Pop’s meteoric rise—at least until the end of the ’70s. Yep, the film will reportedly conclude with Jackson leaving The Jacksons following the release of his groundbreaking solo album Off the Wall. That means no Thriller, no Bad—not yet, anyway.

Why the split focus? Reports suggest a planned third act, which dramatized controversial parts of Jackson’s later life, had to be scrapped due to legal issues surrounding an accuser’s settlement agreement. The result? A tighter, era-focused film that hints at a possible second biopic covering the rest of MJ’s career. Imagine: two films, two legacies.

But even this “Part One” seems ambitious. There’s talk of 30 songs, a cast stacked with stars like Colman Domingo (Joe Jackson), Nia Long (Katherine Jackson), Miles Teller, Kat Graham, and more, plus a script by John Logan (Gladiator, Skyfall). With Lionsgate and Universal tag-teaming domestic and international release, expectations are sky-high.

Michael will now release on April 24, 2026, hitting both theaters and IMAX. It’s a long wait, but if the behind-the-scenes tweaks mean more accuracy, better pacing, and a respectful tribute—it just might be worth it.