Biographical films have dominated cinemas over the last few years with movies made depicting the lives of icons such as Elvis, Judy Garland, Elton John and Freddie Mercury. It was announced a few weeks ago that the late King of Pop Michael Jackson would be next in line for his very own biopic.
Following a worldwide search, producers of ‘Michael’ have chosen the late singer’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson, to portray the star.
Announcing the news, director Antoine Fuqua said he was proud to announce Jaafar Jackson as Michael — “the motion picture event that explores the journey of the man who became the King of Pop.”
In a tweet to his fans, 26-year-old Jaafar said he was “humbled and honoured" to bring his uncle's story to life. "To all the fans all over the world, I’ll see you soon," he added.
With a story by John Logan, the movie is being produced by Graham King, who made the critically acclaimed ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ - a biopic about Freddie Mercury and Queen.
Jermaine Jackson’s son was the obvious choice for the producers who searched far and wide for their Michael.
"I met Jaafar over two years ago and was blown away by the way he organically personifies the spirit and personality of Michael," King said 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."
Michael's mother Katherine said in the news release that "Jaafar embodies my son. It's so wonderful to see him carry on the Jackson legacy of entertainers and performers."
Lionsgate Studio said the biopic will explore "the complicated man who became the King of Pop" and will include "all aspects" of his life and performances that set him on the path to becoming a musical legend.
However, it’s unclear whether the controversies of Michael’s life will be covered in the film, such as whether or not it will address his trial on child sex abuse charges in 2005 and additional allegations made in the 2019 documentary, Leaving Neverland.
Jackson was acquitted by a California jury in 2005 in the sex abuse case involving a 13-year-old boy.
The singer died aged 50 on 25 June 2009 just as he was preparing for his This Is It comeback tour.
READ NEXT:
Fans say 'unusual' name of Molly-Mae Hague and Tommy Fury's daughter has leaked
'I thought my daughter just had an insect bite - then months after her 21st birthday she was dead'
These are the gigs we're going to in February 2023
Warning issued to any drivers filling their car with petrol or diesel in next few days
