The Late Michael Jackson, one of the biggest pop stars who has ever lived
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I A new biographical film about the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson, is already generating intense anticipation, with industry analysts predicting it could surpass the global success of Bohemian Rhapsody to become the biggest film ever made about a deceased music legend.
The confidence surrounding the upcoming film, Michael, is rooted in a combination of commercial precedent, enduring global popularity, and a powerful creative team—factors that could propel it into record-breaking territory.
One of the strongest indicators is the track record of its producer, Graham King, who previously delivered the Oscar-winning Bohemian Rhapsody. Despite a troubled production that saw the exit of Sacha Baron Cohen and the dismissal of director Bryan Singer, the film went on to gross over $900 million worldwide and win four Academy Awards. That success demonstrated the immense appetite for well-crafted music biopics, particularly those centered on iconic figures.
With Jackson’s global influence arguably surpassing that of Freddie Mercury, expectations are even higher for Michael. More than a decade after his death in 2009, Jackson’s popularity has not only endured but grown. He currently boasts tens of millions of monthly listeners on Spotify, ranking among the most-streamed artists in the world—an indication that his music continues to resonate across generations.
This sustained demand has also translated into successful stage productions and live experiences. Shows such as Michael Jackson ONE by Cirque du Soleil in Las Vegas, and the Broadway hit MJ The Musical, have attracted global audiences, reinforcing the commercial viability of Jackson-related projects. The upcoming film is expected to tap into this already thriving “Michael Jackson industry.”
Another factor boosting the film’s prospects is its high-profile creative team. The screenplay is written by John Logan, known for blockbusters like Gladiator and The Aviator, while direction is handled by Antoine Fuqua, acclaimed for Training Day. The casting has also drawn attention, with Jaafar Jackson taking on the lead role, alongside established actors such as Colman Domingo, Miles Teller, and Nia Long.
Perhaps most significantly, the film has the backing of Jackson’s estate, which has granted the production team considerable creative freedom. This support is expected to ensure access to Jackson’s music catalogue and personal story—two critical elements in crafting an authentic and compelling narrative.
However, the film’s potential success is not without complexity. Jackson’s life was marked by both extraordinary achievement and serious controversy, including allegations of child abuse that continue to shape public discourse. While he was acquitted in a 2005 criminal trial and reached an earlier civil settlement, these issues remain a sensitive part of his legacy.
Paradoxically, this complexity may contribute to the film’s appeal. Audiences are often drawn to stories that explore both the triumphs and struggles of iconic figures, and Jackson’s life offers a dramatic narrative unmatched in scale and intensity.
Ultimately, the combination of enduring global popularity, proven production leadership, a strong creative team, and a compelling—if controversial—life story positions Michael as a potential box office phenomenon. If it captures even a fraction of the cultural impact of its subject, it could redefine the commercial ceiling for music biopics centered on late artists.
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