Major Reshoots Ahead On Michael Jackson Biopic

An ongoing legal issue means the highly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic will have to undergo some major reshoots, according to Puck News. The film, titled Michael, will follow one of pop culture’s biggest icons as he is played by his real-life nephew, Jaafar Jackson.

Antoine Fuqua (Training Day, The Equalizer) was announced to direct the project in January 2023, and filming began later that year through to January 2024. Alongside Jackson, A-listers Colman Domingo, Nia Long, and Miles Teller are amongst the cast. Originally slated for release on April 18, Michael has been pushed back. The reason for this is necessary reshoots in light of an ongoing legal issue.

The screenplay does include highly publicised child abuse accusations against Michael Jackson. The film’s producer, Graham King, commented on his intention to “humanize but not sanitize and present the most compelling, unbiased story.”

The unfortunate timestamp in Jackson’s career was to be portrayed in the film’s third act, including alleged victim Jordan Chandler. However, due to an inability to legally showcase Chandler, major reshoots will occur.

But for fans, hope is not lost. After a positive reception to a first look at CinemaCon in April 2024, the film will eventually see its release in 2025. After the reshoot news broke headlines, US distributor Lionsgate and the Michael Jackson estate released a t statement: “The Michael Jackson biopic is not in total chaos. The inflammatory headlines about the moving halting are simply not true. The film is moving forward and reshoots are happening in March.”

The statement offers relief for fans. Although they’ll have to wait a little longer, Michael is set for a US release on October 3, 2025.