Michael": The Record-Breaking Music Biopic Celebrating the King of Pop's Legacy
The highly anticipated biopic "Michael," directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring Jaafar Jackson as the iconic Michael Jackson, has been a huge hit at the box office. The Lionsgate film debuted with an impressive $97 million in the United States on April 24 and has quickly amassed $424 million globally in just over a week. This makes "Michael" the highest-grossing music biopic focusing on an American artist, surpassing previous records in the genre.
The movie follows Michael Jackson's journey from his early days with the Jackson 5 to his legendary 1988 performance at Wembley Stadium, featuring elaborate recreations of his iconic shows, including the groundbreaking "Thriller." While critics have given the film a low 38% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, audiences have responded much more positively, giving it an outstanding 97% audience score.
Despite criticism, director Spike Lee, a longtime fan of Jackson, defended the film, highlighting that it intentionally concludes in 1988, avoiding the controversial aspects of Jackson's later life. Fans have praised Jaafar Jackson's striking physical resemblance and performance, as well as the film's faithful portrayal of Michael's music and stage presence.
The impressive box office numbers reflect the enduring global fascination with Michael Jackson's music and legacy. Despite ongoing controversies, "Michael" has resonated with audiences eager to celebrate Jackson's artistry and cultural impact. With its record-breaking opening and rapid global earnings, the film is poised to be one of the biggest theatrical releases of 2026, serving as a tribute to the King of Pop's unparalleled influence on music and popular culture.