“Michael” to hit theaters in 2025.

Nia Long has been cast to portray Katherine Jackson, the mother of Michael Jackson, in Antoine Fuqua’s highly anticipated biographical drama about the King of Pop. The film, titled “Michael,” will delve into the complex life and legacy of the legendary performer.

The cast also includes Jaafar Jackson, Michael’s nephew, who will play the iconic musician, while Colman Domingo will take on the role of Joe Jackson, the family’s patriarch.

“Nia has delivered iconic performances throughout her career,” Fuqua said. “I’ve been a fan for a long time because her characters stay with you. I’m excited to now work alongside her as she pours all of that into Katherine Jackson: a woman who was the glue, the rock, and the heart of the Jackson family during its best and its most turbulent times.”

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MICHAEL JACKSON THE BIOPIC

“Michael” aims to explore the singer’s remarkable yet complicated journey, portraying him as a “brilliant yet complicated man” who rose to become one of the greatest performers of all time. The script is penned by John Logan, known for his work on films such as “Gladiator,” “Sweeney Todd,” and the James Bond movies “Skyfall” and “Spectre.”

“Katherine Jackson is an incredible pillar of strength and grace for the entire Jackson family,” Long shared. “As a mother, she was selfless and endured forces beyond her control yet still managed to help build a legacy beyond measure.”

Currently in production, “Michael” is set to be released in theaters on April 18, 2025. The film is produced by Graham King, known for “Bohemian Rhapsody,” alongside Michael Jackson estate co-executors John Branca and John McClain. Lionsgate will distribute the film domestically, while Universal Pictures International will handle distribution in other territories except Japan, which Lionsgate will oversee.

“Beyond Nia’s incredible talent, I was deeply moved by her connection to the material and her commitment to honoring Katherine and the love she had for her son,” said King.

NIA LONG ADDS TO HER LONG LIST OF MOVIES

Nia Long recently appeared in Netflix’s comedy “You People” and is renowned for her roles in films like “Boyz n the Hood,” “Love Jones,” “Soul Food,” “The Best Man,” and “Big Momma’s House.” On television, she is known for her memorable roles on “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” and “Third Watch.” She is represented by Verve, Narrative, and Meyer & Downs.

Long spoke to PEOPLE about the project at the American Black Film Festival on June 13, expressing her admiration for director Antoine Fuqua. “First of all, I love Antoine Fuqua,” she said. “He has just taken this project to a place that is magical and wonderful.”

NIA LONG ON JAAFAR JACKSON ON MICHAEL

Praising her co-stars, Long described Jaafar Jackson, who plays Michael, as “incredibly talented and beautiful,” and called Colman Domingo, who plays Joe Jackson, “probably one of my favorite human beings on the planet.”

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Reflecting on the responsibility of portraying Katherine Jackson, Long noted, “It was a huge responsibility to represent a woman who is iconic, who has carried the weight of the world on her shoulders, who is still with us gracefully. I am hoping that I delivered because one never knows. I just put in the work and tried to do my best. It was an opportunity of a lifetime.”

“As a mother, she was selfless and endured forces beyond her control yet still managed to help build a legacy beyond measure. I am honored to bring her voice to the screen and share Michael Jackson’s story with audiences everywhere,” Long concluded.