Michael Jackson Biopic May Be Split Into Two Films, Release Date Likely 2025

The highly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, directed by Antoine Fuqua, could be expanding into two films, leading to a likely delay from its original October 3 release date reports Variety.

Production Updates and Script Revisions

Despite being a major highlight at last year’s Lionsgate CinemaCon, Michael was notably absent from this year’s showcase, with no footage presented. While the film wrapped principal photography in May 2024, the script, written by John Logan, is undergoing revisions in preparation for reshoots.

With an estimated $155 million budget, Michael features Jaafar Jackson, Michael’s nephew, in his screen debut portraying the legendary pop star. The film also stars Colman Domingo and Nia Long as Michael’s parents, Joe and Katherine Jackson, with Miles Teller playing Jackson’s attorney John Branca. Larenz Tate will portray Motown Records founder Berry Gordy, while Laura Harrier takes on the role of music executive Suzanne de Passe, and Kat Graham will appear as Diana Ross.

A Star-Studded Supporting Cast

The biopic’s ensemble cast includes:

• Jessica Sula (Split) as La Toya Jackson

• Liv Symone (Power Book III: Raising Kanan) as Gladys Knight

• Kevin Shinick (Robot Chicken) as Dick Clark

• KeiLyn Durrel Jones (The Other Two) as Bill Bray, Jackson’s former security guard and confidante

• Kendrick Sampson (Insecure) as Quincy Jones, the producer behind Jackson’s Off the Wall, Thriller, and Bad albums

Who Is Playing Katherine Jackson in the Michael Biopic?

Nia Long has been cast as Katherine Jackson, the matriarch of the Jackson family, in the upcoming Michael biopic. Long, known for her roles in The Best Man series, Boyz n the Hood, and Big Momma’s House, will portray Michael’s devoted mother, who played a crucial role in supporting his career while managing the challenges of fame and family dynamics.

#MichaelMovie Nia Long as Katherine Jackson & Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson #MichaelJackson Biopic 2025! pic.twitter.com/nVq07Eteba

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