Michael is based on the true story of Michael Jackson, tracing his rise from a gifted child in a strict household to one of the most influential performers in music history. In the film, Michael Jackson is portrayed by his nephew Jaafar Jackson.Michael began performing at a young age under the direction of his father, Joe Jackson, alongside his brothers in The Jackson 5. The group quickly found success in the late 1960s, with Michael emerging as the standout voice and presence, captivating audiences with a level of skill far beyond his years.
As the group’s fame grew, so did the pressures behind the scenes. Grueling rehearsals and constant touring shaped Michael’s childhood, instilling discipline but also creating tension within the family. By the mid-1970s, as the group transitioned into The Jacksons, Michael began seeking greater creative control and a path beyond the group’s identity.
That shift became clear with the release of Michael's fifth solo studio album Off the Wall in 1979, a critically acclaimed solo project that redefined his sound and image. Building on that success, he released his next album Thriller in 1982, which became a global phenomenon, breaking sales records and transforming the landscape of popular music.
In his personal life, he formed friendships with high-profile figures such as Diana Ross, who acted as a mentor, and Brooke Shields, whom he publicly described as a close companion. Still, he remained deeply private and somewhat shy in interviews, often appearing more comfortable on stage than off.
Despite his solo achievements, Michael reunited with his brothers in 1984 for the Victory Tour. The tour was a commercial success, drawing massive crowds across the United States, but it also highlighted growing creative and personal differences. While audiences saw a triumphant family reunion, behind the scenes the experience underscored how far Michael had evolved beyond the group. At the final show, Michael announced to the audience that it was the group's last tour, marking his departure from the band.
The story up to this point captures both the triumph and the strain that defined Michael’s early career, setting the stage for the choices and challenges that would follow.
Michael debuts in theaters on April 24, 2026. A sequel will follow in 2028. Click here for showtimes. ~Megan Parsons