**Flex Alexander Reflects on Playing Michael Jackson in Man in the Mirror: The Untold Story Behind the Biopic**

Actor and comedian Flex Alexander is finally opening up about one of the most controversial roles of his career—portraying Michael Jackson in VH1’s 2004 biopic Man in the Mirror: The Michael Jackson Story. In a recent interview, he broke down the real story behind landing the part, the behind-the-scenes issues that plagued the production, and how both he and Michael reacted after the film’s release.

A Chance Casting That Made No Sense—At First

Flex revealed that he didn’t even audition for Michael Jackson at first. He was actually trying out for a role in Juanna, a project he later felt relieved he didn’t get, saying having both films on his résumé would have been “too much.”

When producers circled back and asked him to audition for Michael Jackson—despite his towering 6’4″ height—Flex was stunned. But they insisted on seeing him, and soon he found himself in serious discussions with the director and producers.

He Was Told the Film Had the Music Rights — And That Changed Everything

One of the most important factors in Flex accepting the role was the assurance that the film had permission to use Michael Jackson’s real music. He believed the movie would be handled with the same reverence seen in today’s high-quality music biopics.

However, after he signed on, producers admitted they didn’t have the rights after all. No original songs. No iconic Jackson sound.

Flex says this decision dramatically hurt the film’s quality and changed the tone and emotional connection of the entire project.

A Difficult Makeup Process That Became a Punchline

One of the most infamous parts of the biopic is the makeup—and Flex addressed it head-on.

He described early-morning call times for airbrush sessions that left him looking “ashy.” Attempts to suggest improvements were dismissed, and makeup artists refused to use a prosthetic nose despite his requests.

Looking back, Flex admits the makeup contributed heavily to the backlash the movie would later receive.

How Reactions Changed Once Social Media Entered the Picture

When the film first aired—before the rise of social media—initial reactions were largely positive. But years later, when memes and commentary took over the internet, Man in the Mirror became a target of widespread ridicule.

Flex acknowledges the criticism with humor today, even creating a skit poking fun at himself.

Michael Jackson Was Not Upset With Flex — But With the Script

Flex also revealed that Michael Jackson himself was unhappy about the film—but not because of his performance. Michael was upset that the movie resurfaced old allegations and legal documents, which producers had used as a foundation for the script.

Flex emphasized his deep respect for Michael and noted that he and his wife personally knew the Jackson family, making it painful to see the narrative framed that way.

Despite It All, Flex Gave the Role Everything He Had

Even with the challenges—no music rights, makeup issues, and public backlash—Flex said he “dove in” fully, working to tap into Michael’s essence, energy, and emotional depth. He never approached the role or later skits with mockery; instead, he wanted to honor someone he deeply admired.

Link to Other Biopic or Music Legacy Articles

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