Italian
Jaafar Jackson steps into the spotlight: A new chapter in the Jackson legacy
A star is born
Jaafar Jackson, the son of Jermaine Jackson and nephew of the legendary Michael Jackson, is set to make his acting debut in the highly anticipated biopic, “Michael.” Directed by Antoine Fuqua and produced by GK Films, this film promises to offer an intimate look at the life of the King of Pop. Scheduled for a worldwide release on April 18, 2025, “Michael” is poised to captivate audiences with its in-depth portrayal of the iconic musician.
A family affair
Jaafar Jackson’s casting is a significant moment for the Jackson family. Not only does it continue the family’s rich musical and entertainment legacy, but it also marks Jaafar’s first foray into acting. The film is produced by John Branca and John McClain, co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate, ensuring that the portrayal remains authentic and respectful. Lionsgate will distribute the film in the U.S. and Japan, while Universal Pictures handles international territories.
First look at CinemaCon
In April, Lionsgate gave fans a tantalizing glimpse of “Michael” at CinemaCon. The preview showcased Jaafar’s transformation into his uncle, complete with a recreation of the iconic “Man in the Mirror” look from Michael’s Dangerous Tour. The footage highlighted Jaafar’s ability to capture the essence of Michael Jackson, both on and off the stage. The film features over 30 songs, including hits like “Man in the Mirror” and “Thriller,” and recreates several of Michael’s legendary performances, starting with the Jackson 5’s classic rendition of “ABC” on “American Bandstand.”
A stellar cast
While Jaafar takes center stage, the film boasts an impressive ensemble cast. Nine-year-old Juliano Krue Valdi will portray a young Michael during his early days with the Jackson 5. Oscar nominee Colman Domingo and Nia Long play Michael’s parents, Joe and Katherine Jackson. Miles Teller steps into the role of John Branca, Michael’s attorney and advisor. The film also features eight actors portraying Michael’s siblings across two time periods.
Other notable cast members include:
- Larenz Tate as Motown Records founder Berry Gordy
- Kat Graham as Diana Ross
- Laura Harrier as Suzanne de Passe
- Jessica Sula as La Toya Jackson
- Liv Symone as Gladys Knight
- Kevin Shinick as Dick Clark
- KeiLyn Durrel Jones as Bill Bray
- Kendrick Sampson as Quincy Jones
Jaafar’s journey
Jaafar Jackson’s journey to this moment has been a fascinating one. Despite growing up in a family with a rich musical legacy, Jaafar didn’t decide to pursue a career in music until he was 12 years old. He began playing the piano and singing, eventually releasing his debut single, “Got Me Singing,” in 2019. Now 28, Jaafar is ready to make his mark on the big screen.
Representation and future prospects
In addition to his role in “Michael,” Jaafar Jackson has signed with CAA for representation. He continues to be represented by David Weber and Robert Offer at Sloane, Offer, Weber & Dern. This new chapter in Jaafar’s career is a testament to his talent and dedication, and it will be exciting to see where his journey takes him next.
A personal reflection
As a cinema and music enthusiast, the prospect of seeing Jaafar Jackson step into his uncle’s shoes is both thrilling and poignant. Michael Jackson’s influence on music and pop culture is immeasurable, and this biopic offers a unique opportunity to explore the man behind the legend. Jaafar’s dedication to honoring his uncle’s legacy is evident, and his performance promises to be a highlight of the film.
For those eager to get a taste of what’s to come, you can watch the trailer for Michael and immerse yourself in the world of the King of Pop. This film is not just a tribute to Michael Jackson’s extraordinary career but also a celebration of the enduring legacy of the Jackson family.
In the world of cinema and music, few stories are as compelling as that of Michael Jackson. With Jaafar Jackson at the helm, “Michael” is set to be a cinematic experience that will resonate with fans old and new.
