Michael Jackson’s nephew to play him in upcoming biopic

Michael Jackson’s 26-year-old nephew, Jaafar Jackson, will play the singer in the planned biopic ‘Michael’ to be directed by Antoine Fuqua.

Lionsgate announced Jackson’s casting for the film, which is being produced by Oscar-winning ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ producer Graham King, on Monday. Jackson is the second-youngest son of Jermaine Jackson, Michael’s older brother.

Jackson also has music of his own, having released his debut single, ‘Got Me Singing’, back in 2019. The biopic ‘Michael’ will be his acting debut.

“I met Jaafar over two years ago and was blown away by the way he organically personifies the spirit and personality of Michael,” said King in a statement. “It was something so powerful that even after conducting a worldwide search, it was clear that he is the only person to take on this role.”

Fuqua also announced the news on Instagram by sharing a black-and-white photo of Jackson in character.

“Proud to announce @jaafarjackson as Michael — the motion picture event that explores the journey of the man who became the King of Pop. Coming soon. Photo by Jourdynn Jackson,” read the caption.

Jackson also shared the same photo on Twitter, with the added comment: “I’m humbled and honored to bring my Uncle Michael’s story to life. To all the fans all over the world, I’ll see you soon.”

Katherine Jackson, the mother of Michael Jackson, also shared her opinion on the casting.

“Jaafar embodies my son. It’s so wonderful to see him carry on the Jackson legacy of entertainers and performers,” she wrote.

‘Michael’ will be produced by King and the co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate, John Branca and John McClain. The screenplay is by playwright John Logan. Logan and King previously worked together on Martin Scorsese’s ‘The Aviator’.

Similarly, ‘MJ The Musical’ has been a success on broadway, grossing millions and leading to actor Myles Frost winning the award for Best Actor in a Musical at the 2022 Tony Awards. The musical is still touring into 2023.

However, ‘Michael’ will be the first feature-length film produced about the late pop star since the documentary, ‘Michael Jackson’s Journey from Motown to Off the Wall’, was released in 2014.

Filming for ‘Michael’ is to begin this year. An official release date has yet to be announced.