Michael Jackson fans, clear your calendars and crank up your nostalgia because the first teaser for the King of Pop’s highly anticipated biopic, Michael, just dropped—and Jaafar Jackson is front and center moonwalking into the legend’s shoes. Let’s break down what you need to know from the new trailer, the film’s story, and why everyone is buzzing about Michael (2026).
Jaafar Jackson Becomes the King of Pop
The teaser is pure goosebumps territory: Jaafar Jackson, Michael’s real-life nephew and son of Jermaine Jackson, transforms into his iconic uncle right before your eyes. If you squint, it’s like the 1980s never left—Jaafar dons Michael’s legendary costumes, perfects the moonwalk, and reenacts classics from the “Thriller” and “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” music videos. The trailer nails all the signature choreography and reveals Jaafar’s uncanny resemblance, promising a modern take on Michael’s heyday that isn’t just cosplay—it’s genuine cinematic tribute.
Director Antoine Fuqua (Training Day) knows the stakes—music royalty, generational talent, and a story etched deep in pop culture. The teaser’s opening line—“I know you’ve been waiting a long time for this”—sets up a film that’s as much for devoted MJ fans as for those who missed the moonwalk the first time around.
What’s in the Film? Moonwalks, Milestones, and Untold Stories
Michael doesn’t shy away from the spectacle. Most glimpses from the trailer focus on the highs of Jackson’s career: showstopping stadium moments, life in the studio with legendary producer Quincy Jones (played by Kendrick Sampson), and pivotal transitions from Jackson 5 prodigy to solo phenomenon. The film retraces the steps of musical mastery—and yes, expect recreations of the most electrifying performances, iconic media moments, and personal snapshots from Michael’s journey on and off stage.
But here’s the twist: the trailer gives little attention to the controversial chapters of Jackson’s life. Legal challenges, public scrutiny, and family drama seem minimized—at least for now—making this teaser all about honoring the past without getting lost in the tabloid weeds. This direction is partly due to legal settlements that prevented the movie from dramatizing certain aspects, resulting in major reshoots and the film’s release being delayed to April 24, 2026.
With a runtime reportedly so long that Lionsgate is considering splitting it into two parts, don’t be surprised if you’ll want to moonwalk right back to the theater for a sequel. And for those needing the cast rundown: Jaafar Jackson stars as Michael, with Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Miles Teller as John Branca, Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, Kat Graham as Diana Ross, and Juliano Krue Valdi as Young Michael Jackson.
Trailer Highlights and Fan Frenzy
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Over 30 million teaser views in just six hours after launch, smashing records previously set by blockbusters like John Wick: Chapter 4. Jaafar’s performance is already being hailed as a revelation.
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The film’s music score will feature Michael’s greatest hits, performed by Jaafar—a true family handoff of artistic legacy.
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The biopic will hit theaters and IMAX screens worldwide on April 24, 2026, after years of production drama, legal issues, and pandemic delays.
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Early reactions praise the authenticity and electrifying energy that Jaafar brings to the role, with many calling it “a front-row seat to the life of the King of Pop”.
Final Take
Whether you’re a lifelong MJ fan or just want to see if Jaafar Jackson can truly embody the King, the first look at Michael (2026) promises a big, bold, and unforgettable ride through pop culture history—minus the drama and with all the hits.
