Lionsgate and Universal’s Michael Jackson biopic Michael will now open globally on April 24, 2026, including Imax screenings.
Lionsgate and Universal’s long-awaited Michael Jackson biopic Michael is now scheduled for a global theatrical release on April 24, 2026, including Imax screens. The film, directed by Antoine Fuqua and produced by Bohemian Rhapsody’s Graham King, stars Jackson’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson, as the King of Pop.
The latest release shift — its third — comes amid reported challenges, including the original 3½-hour cut and scenes involving Jordan Chandler, the 13-year-old who accused Jackson of abuse in 1993. Though the screenplay by John Logan included Chandler with estate approval, a post-production agreement required his removal, prompting additional edits.
No other major releases are currently slated for that weekend, making it a strategic move between The Mummy on April 17 and The Devil Wears Prada 2 on May 1. A second Michael Jackson film is also reportedly in development. Michael will be released by Kino Films in Japan and Universal elsewhere worldwide.
The film was previously dated for April 2025 and then October 2025.