After much anticipation, the first trailer for the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic “Michael” was released on Thursday morning.
The over one-minute trailer begins in the recording studio, where a voice can be heard telling Jackson, played by his real-life nephew Jaafar, “I know you waited a long time for this. The tracks are made. The songs are ready. Let’s take it from the top… this is your story.”
That voice ends up being Quincy Jones’, played by “Insecure” actor Kendrick Sampson. While it’s a line, it’s also a message for fans who have been waiting for this film after multiple delays.
From there, fans are taken through a brief but powerful journey through the King of Pop’s career.
“‘Michael’ is the cinematic portrayal of the life and legacy of one of the most influential artists the world has ever known. The film tells the story of Michael Jackson’s life beyond the music, tracing his journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of the Jackson Five, to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world,” the movie’s synopsis explained. “Highlighting both his life off-stage and some of the most iconic performances from his early solo career, the film gives audiences a front-row seat to Michael Jackson as never before. This is where his story begins.”
Nia Long plays the Jackson family Matriarch, Katherine. Colman Domingo plays the role of Jackson’s father, Joe Jackson. Juliano Krue Valdi plays the younger Jackson.
Laura Harrier, Juliano Krue Valdi, with Miles Teller, and Larenz Tate also appear in the movie. The film is Jaafar’s cinematic debut; his father is Jackson’s older brother Jermaine.
The Antoine Fuqua-directed film will hit theaters and IMAX on April 24, 2026.
“Bohemian Rhapsody” producer Graham King is the main producer. He’s joined by John Branca and John McClain, who are the co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate.