The image sees Jaafar Jackson wearing his uncle’s Man in the Mirror look from the Dangerous tour.

By James Hibbs

Published: Tuesday, 13 February 2024 at 17:24 PM


A first look image has been released for the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic Michael, showing star Jaafar Jackson, Michael’s nephew, in costume.

The image shows Jaafar dressed in his uncle’s Man in the Mirror look from his 1992-93 Dangerous tour, singing on stage while wearing a white top and jacket.

It is the first officially released picture to have been revealed from the film, which is set to release next year.

Alongside the image, producer Graham King said in a statement: “With Jaafar, every look, every note, every dance move is Michael. He embodies Michael in a way that no other actor could.”

Jaafar Jackson will be joined in the cast by Colman Domingo (Rustin) as Michael’s father Joe, Nia Long (You People) as his mother Katherine, Juliano Krue Valdi as a young Michael and Miles Teller (Top Gun: Maverick) as lawyer John Branca.

Jaafar Jackson dressed as Michael Jackson, on stage and holding a microphone in Michael
Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson in Michael.
Kevin Mazur/Universal

The official synopsis for the film says: “Michael will bring audiences a riveting and honest portrayal of the brilliant yet complicated man who became the King of Pop.

“The film presents his triumphs and tragedies on an epic, cinematic scale — from his human side and personal struggles to his undeniable creative genius, exemplified by his most iconic performances.

Read more:

“As never before, audiences will experience an inside look into one of the most influential, trailblazing artists the world has ever known.”

The film is being directed by Antoine Fuqua, known for his previous work on films such as The Equalizer and Training Day.

He said in a statement: “We have assembled an incredible team of artists for this project – hair and makeup, costumes, cinematography, choreography, lighting, everything – and some who knew and worked with Michael are reuniting for this film.

“But most importantly, it’s Jaafar who embodies Michael. It goes beyond the physical resemblance. It’s Michael’s spirit that comes through in a magical way. You have to experience it to believe it.”