Samuel Nelson III: The Youngest Michael Jackson on Broadway
At just 18 years old, Samuel Nelson III has made his Broadway debut in the musical "MJ The Musical" as the standby for the title role and Middle Michael. This opportunity came earlier than expected for Nelson, who had originally planned to attend college in New Jersey for musical theater training. Despite the unexpected turn of events, Nelson views this experience as a valuable learning opportunity, treating it as his semester of college with access to various resources and seasoned professionals in the industry.
Being the youngest performer to portray Michael Jackson on Broadway is a daunting task, but Nelson sees his age as an advantage, bringing a fresh and youthful energy to the role. His debut on a two-show day was nerve-wracking, but he approached it with a deep sense of honoring Michael Jackson's legacy. To prepare for his performance, Nelson arrived at the theater early, soaking in the atmosphere and music while connecting with his family for support.
Working closely with global associate director Dontee Kiehn, Nelson delved into the complex psyche of the character, exploring Michael Jackson's life and artistic evolution through extensive table work and discussions. Playing MJ at different stages of his life allowed Nelson to embody the essence of the iconic artist, from his young innocence to his peak as a performer, requiring a deep understanding of Jackson's journey and style.
The profound impact of the show on fans of Michael Jackson is evident to Nelson, especially when interacting with supporters at the stage door who are deeply moved by the experience of reliving moments from Jackson's live performances. Seeing younger fans in the audience emulating MJ's moves reminds Nelson of his own childhood fascination with the artist, creating a connection between past and present generations through the timeless music and legacy of Michael Jackson.