Lionsgate has officially dropped the trailer for Michael, the upcoming biopic about Michael Jackson, featuring the late King of Pop’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson.
Instantly, Jaafar has become the talk of the town for his dramatic transformation into his iconic uncle—showcasing his moves, grooves, and uncanny resemblance.
Now that there’s growing interest in Jaafar, here’s a look at his incredible journey to portraying Michael, which has made him an instant leading man in Hollywood.
Who is Jaafar Jackson?
Jaafar is the son of Michael’s older brother, Jermaine Jackson, and his ex-wife, Alejandra Genevieve Oaziaza.
Coming from the legendary Jackson family, it’s no surprise that he chose to follow in the footsteps of his famous relatives and make a name for himself in the entertainment world.
In fact, he appeared in the short-lived Lifetime docuseries The Jacksons: Next Generation with his cousins Taj, Taryll, and TJ.
True to his Jackson roots, he released his debut single, “Got Me Singing,” in 2019 and was later featured on his uncle Tito Jackson’s 2021 song, “Love One Another,” alongside none other than Stevie Wonder.
“I do music because I genuinely enjoy it,” he told Dawn in February 2020.
How Does Jaafar Jackson Become Michael Jackson in the Michael Biopic?
After a two-year open call, Jaafar Jackson was announced to play Michael in the highly anticipated biopic Michael. This marks the younger Jackson’s first major film role.
“Jaafar embodies my son. It’s so wonderful to see him carry on the Jackson legacy of entertainers and performers,” said Katherine Jackson, Michael’s mother.
Before Jaafar was chosen for the role, Bohemian Rhapsody producer Graham King, who secured the rights to make an authorized Michael biopic, revealed that they conducted a worldwide casting search before finally finding the right actor to portray the music icon.
“I met Jaafar over two years ago and was blown away by how he organically personifies the spirit and personality of Michael,” King said. “It was something so powerful that even after conducting a worldwide search, it was clear he was the only person who could take on this role. I am beyond thrilled that he has come on board to portray his uncle and cannot wait for the world to see him on the big screen as Michael Jackson.”
Director Antoine Fuqua, meanwhile, expressed his excitement to see Jaafar bring Michael to life on screen.
“There was such a spiritual connection when I first met Jaafar, who has a natural ability to emulate Michael and an incredible chemistry with the camera,” he shared.
Michael will explore the complex legacy of the King of Pop, delving into all aspects of his life—including the iconic performances that made him the “greatest entertainer of all time.”
Of course, it will also address the sexual abuse allegations made against the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, which he settled in 1994 with Jordan Chandler’s parents for a reported multi-million-dollar payout.
While the movie was produced in collaboration with Michael’s estate, King assured that it would be an “unbiased” depiction of the singer’s life.
In fact, a spokesperson for the film told Variety in March 2024 that Michael’s estate was putting its “trust in Graham King [and] stepping out of the creative process.”
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