The anticipated biopic on Michael Jackson, directed by Antoine Fuqua, has been delayed from its original release date of April 18, 2025. The film is now scheduled to debut in theaters worldwide on October 3, 2025. This six-month postponement was announced by Lionsgate, the studio behind the production.
The film, starring Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson's nephew, aims to explore the life and legacy of the "King of Pop." Jaafar will portray the iconic performer, with a supporting cast that includes Nia Long, Laura Harrier, Miles Teller, and Colman Domingo. Renowned screenwriter John Logan penned the script, while the film is produced by Graham King, along with Michael Jackson’s estate representatives, John Branca and John McClain.
Fuqua expressed his enthusiasm for the project, noting Jackson’s influence on his own life and career. “Michael was an incredible artist, but he was also human, and we’re exploring that,” he shared.
The biopic promises fans rare archival footage and extensive musical performances, with a soundtrack featuring 30 of Jackson's songs. A preview shown at this year's CinemaCon highlighted the film’s ambitious approach, with an extended runtime aimed at capturing the depth of Jackson's journey.
Alongside the biopic, Lionsgate also revealed that another film, "Good Fortune," will hit theaters on October 17, 2025. The comedy, directed by and starring Aziz Ansari, includes Seth Rogen, Keke Palmer, Sandra Oh, and Keanu Reeves in the cast. The storyline follows a humorous encounter between a gig worker, a venture capitalist, and a well-meaning angel played by Reeves.
Both films are set to attract audiences, with fans eagerly awaiting the Jackson biopic to celebrate the life of one of music’s most iconic figures.