Lionsgate and Universal Pictures are bringing out the big guns to quench pop culture’s ceaseless fascination with Michael Jackson in a new film about the King of Pop.
The studios announced that Colman Domingo, who was just nominated for an Academy Award for his role in Rustin, will portray the “hard-driving, singularly focused, controversial” Joe Jackson, the patriarch of the Jackson musical dynasty in the film Michael. The movie is set to be released on April 18, 2025, according to Variety magazine.
Furthermore, the film will be directed by Antoine Fuqua, who rocketed to stardom after helming Denzel Washington’s classic Training Day and then followed up with the beloved The Equalizer movie franchise.
“Few actors present themselves with Colman’s screen presence and force of will. We’re so fortunate to have an actor with his undeniable talent portraying Joe Jackson on screen. We couldn’t be more excited to have him join us on this journey,” said Graham King, known for producing Oscar-winning films like Bohemian Rhapsody, The Aviator, and The Departed.
In addition to Domingo, the late legendary singer’s nephew Jaafar Jackson will portray his famous uncle who died in 2009.
He’s ready! #MichaelMovie pic.twitter.com/GYQWEy1TXc
— Michael Jackson (@michaeljackson) January 19, 2024
Domingo told the publication he was blown away by Jaafar Jackson’s portrayal of the “Billie Jean” mastermind.
“After seeing [Jaafar] in rehearsal, my mind was blown. There is something divine about the way that Jaafar is channeling his late uncle. His talent and embodiment of Michael’s essence is simply on another level,” Domingo said.
Michael continues the programming that has been rolling out about one of the most successful recording stars in American history. Showtime is currently airing the acclaimed documentary “Thriller 40,” which commemorates the 40th anniversary of the intergalactic Thriller album as well as its groundbreaking predecessor Off the Wall.
