Lionsgate has confirmed that the release of the highly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic has been delayed by six months, from April 18, 2025, to October 3, 2025.
The film, titled Michael, stars Jafar Jackson as the King of Pop and follows his uncle’s rise from child star in the Jackson 5 to music industry superstar until his final days before his death in 2009. sky.
Lionsgate’s decision to reschedule the release for the fall signals a strategic move to position the film as a serious contender during awards season, a strategy common among films aiming for nominations.
Michael will be released alongside the crime thriller Rooftop Man starring Channing Tatum and Kirsten Dunst, and he will also appear in front of Disney’s sci-fi epic TRON: Ares starring Jared Leto Arrived in one week.
The timing reflects increased competition for box office receipts and potential honors at awards shows.
The film is directed by Antoine Fuqua of “Training Day” fame and stars Colman Domingo as family patriarch Joe Jackson, Nia Long as matriarch Katherine Jackson, and Miles Te… Le plays John Branca, Michael’s long-time manager.
The script, written by acclaimed screenwriter John Logan of “Skyfall” and “Gladiator” fame, aims to capture key moments in Jackson’s life.
Fuqua shared an exclusive preview of the footage at San Diego Comic-Con in July 2024 and expressed his personal connection to the project.
“Michael had a big impact on my career,” Fuqua said, explaining his motivation for accepting the program. “He’s an incredible artist and person, and we’re exploring that.”
The film is expected to be long-running and will include Jackson’s catalog of 30 hit songs, which will be crucial in capturing the essence of the thriller legend’s story.
Michael is co-produced by John Branca and Graham King, who achieved critical and commercial success following the box office success of Bohemian Rhapsody of praise.
