- Primary Subject: The upcoming Michael Jackson biopic, Michael
- Key Update: The film’s original third act exploring the 1993 scandal was scrapped.
- Status: Confirmed
- Last Verified: April 8, 2026
- Quick Answer: The Michael biopic removed the 1993 scandal scenes because a legal clause in a past settlement barred the accuser's depiction, prompting a new tour-focused ending.
The upcoming Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, underwent massive changes in its third act as it will no longer cover the King of Pop's infamous 1993 scandal.
Fans have been anticipating the release of the late King of Pop's biopic, and they have been wondering about which eras of his long-spanning career and personal life will be covered. There were also questions on how it will tackle his infamous legal controversy, but as it turns out, fans should not expect that to be covered at all.
Why the Michael Jackson Biopic Will Not Cover the 1993 Scandal
According to Variety, the third act of Michael was originally going to explore Michael Jackson's 1993 scandal when he was accused of child molestation. However, that is no longer going to be featured when fans see the film on the big screen.
In the original script, there was a scene where the King of Pop is staring at his reflection in the mirror, while the police and investigators arrive at the Neverland Ranch to search for evidence. However, that was left on the cutting room floor.
It was scrapped after the Jackson estate realized there was a clause in a settlement with one of the accusers, Jordan Chandler, that barred the depiction or mention of him in a biopic project.
As a result, the filmmakers had to come up with a new ending that does not explore the 1993 scandal at all. A 22-day reshoot took place last year to film a new third act and flesh out scenes from the earlier parts of the movie. The Jackson estate shouldered the costs of the reshoot.
Instead of ending with the 1993 scandal, Michael will now end with Jackson's iconic Bad tour, where he is seen preparing for a performance on stage and electrifying the crowd. The film will also now lean in heavily into the King of Pop's music career and his tumultuous relationship with his father, Joe.
What to Expect in Michael
Michael is the cinematic portrayal of the life and legacy of one of the most influential artists the world has ever known. The film tells the story of Michael Jackson’s life beyond the music, tracing his journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of the Jackson Five, to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world.
Highlighting both his life off-stage and some of the most iconic performances from his early solo career, the film gives audiences a front-row seat to Michael Jackson as never before.
The main cast includes Jaafar Jackson, Colman Domingo, Miles Teller, Nia Long, Laura Harrier, and Juliano Krue Valdi. Antoine Fuqua directed the film, while John Logan wrote the script.
The film is set to arrive in theaters on April 24. It will also be available on IMAX and other premium formats.
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