Despite facing average reviews, tough competition, and various challenges, the Jackson family movie “Michael” has achieved the status of the highest-grossing biopic ever made. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film has raked in an impressive $977 million at the global box office, surpassing the previous record holder, “Oppenheimer,” which grossed $975 million in 2025. Initially the highest-grossing musical biopic, “Michael” outperformed “Bohemian Rhapsody” with its $911 million earnings by mid-June. Notably, it also stands as Lionsgate Films’ top-grossing production, surpassing “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire” from 2013.
The storyline of “Michael” traces the journey of pop icon Michael Jackson, portrayed in adulthood by his real-life nephew Jaafar Jackson, from his early days performing with the Jackson 5 to the pinnacle of his career, releasing iconic hits like “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” and “Thriller.”
However, the movie notably avoids delving into the allegations of child sexual abuse against Michael Jackson, who passed away in 2009. Director Fuqua had originally planned to address these allegations in the script, including a scene depicting a police search of Jackson during the 1993 raid on Neverland ranch. Despite filming these segments, they were eventually scrapped due to a legal agreement between the Jackson estate and Jordan Chandler, who accused Jackson of sexual misconduct when he was 13.
The film concludes in 1988, before any public accusations were made against Jackson. Extensive reshoots, costing up to $50 million, were funded by the estate, which always denied the accusations of sexual abuse against the singer. Although Jackson did not admit guilt in the settlement with Chandler, he faced similar allegations in 2005 but was acquitted on all charges.
While “Michael” received criticism for its narrow focus and storytelling, with some reviewers pointing out a simplistic depiction of its central character, it also garnered praise for Jaafar Jackson’s portrayal. Streaming numbers for Michael Jackson’s music notably increased by 95% following the film’s release in April.
Despite modest opening weekend projections, “Michael” exceeded expectations, grossing almost $100 million in the U.S. and Canada. The film’s success has continued, hinting at a possible sequel exploring Michael Jackson’s later life, as hinted by Fuqua and Lionsgate.