One Movie is Not Enough: Michael Jackson Biopic Might Get Split Into Two Parts

Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson in Michael
Credit: Kevin Mazur/Lionsgate | Fair use for promotional purposes

Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson in Michael
Credit: Kevin Mazur/Lionsgate | Fair use for promotional purposes

According to new reports, the highly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic might be split into two parts.

The late music icon is finally getting his own biopic treatment with his nephew Jaafar Jackson taking on the daunting task of playing him. It is expected to cover his entire life and career, starting from his Jackson 5 days until his final years.

Lionsgate Considering Splitting Michael Jackson Biopic Into Two Parts

Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson in Michael
expand image
Credit: Lionsgate | Fair use for promotional purposes

Deadline reported that Lionsgate is considering the idea of splitting the Michael Jackson biopic into two parts, as the film currently has a near four-hour cut.

The news comes after the movie was not discussed by the studio during their recent CinemaCon presentation, and rumors that it might be delaying its release date. It is currently planned to arrive in theaters this October.

While nothing is definite yet at the moment, the two-parter idea is on the table, and it would follow the playbook on what Universal Pictures did with Wicked.

Considering the massive scope of Jackson's life and career that they have to cover, it may not be surprising for long-time fans of the music icon to hear that one movie might not be enough to explore him in a biopic setting.

For now, Lionsgate remains mum on their plans for the highly anticipated biopic, and we will likely hear some official details soon.

What to Expect in the Michael Jackson Biopic

The Michael Jackson biopic Michael is under the direction of Antoine Fuqua and co-produced by Graham King, who was also behind Bohemian Rhapsody.

Aside from Jaafar Jackson, the cast also includes Colman Domingo, Nia Long, Miles Teller, Laura Harrier, Jamal R. Henderson, Tre Horton, Rhyan Hill, Joseph David-Jones, Kat Graham, and Kendrick Sampson.

There were reports that the film had to undergo massive reshoots due to the issues with the third act.

Originally, the film was going to explore the 1993 investigation into then 13-year-old Jordan Chandler's sexual abuse allegation against the singer. However, due to legal and contractual issues, they cannot showcase it in the story.

Lionsgate has denied the reports about the alleged behind-the-scenes trouble that the project is facing.

What do you think of the biopic's potential splitting into two parts? Let us know in the comments!

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