The biopic about the legendary pop star Michael Jackson, titled simply “Michael,” has shattered records, establishing itself as the highest-grossing music biopic of all time. Released in theatres on April 24, the film has garnered an impressive $911.9 million globally, overtaking the previous record-holder, “Bohemian Rhapsody,” which earned $910.9 million in 2018. As “Michael” continues its run in cinemas, industry experts speculate it may soon join the elite club of films that have surpassed the $1 billion mark worldwide.
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Directed by Antoine Fuqua and featuring a screenplay by John Logan, “Michael” has quickly resonated with audiences, thanks in part to the creative involvement of Jackson’s family. The film stars Jaafar Jackson, the nephew of the King of Pop, in the title role. The biopic provides a glimpse into the complicated life of Jackson, focusing on his rise to stardom during the late 1980s, while notably omitting the controversies that overshadowed his later years.
The film’s success mirrors that of “Bohemian Rhapsody,” which also enjoyed a stellar box office performance, leading to an Academy Award for Best Actor for Rami Malek’s portrayal of Freddie Mercury. Both biopics share producer Graham King, a notable influence in the industry and a key figure in bringing these artists’ stories to life on the big screen.
As “Michael” climbs the box office rankings, it faces competition from several other films released this year, including “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie,” which recently achieved the coveted $1 billion milestone. Other notable releases from 2026 include “Project Hail Mary” and “The Devil Wears Prada 2,” although none have yet reached the astronomical heights of the animated Mario sequel.
In this latest film effort about the King of Pop, the cast is bolstered by performances from Colman Domingo, who portrays Jackson’s father, Joe, and Nia Long as his mother, Katherine. The film also features Miles Teller as lawyer-manager John Branca and Mike Myers in a supporting role as CBS Records executive Walter Yetnikoff. The diverse ensemble casts a spotlight on the personal and professional relationships that shaped Jackson’s life and career.
The storyline of “Michael” promises to depict an “honest portrayal” of the singer’s complex nature, encapsulating both his musical brilliance and turbulent journey. As the film concludes its narrative in 1988, it expertly avoids delving into the numerous controversies that would later surround Jackson, focusing instead on his successes and the impact he had on the music industry.
Critics and fans alike have responded positively to the film, applauding both the performances and the creative direction. Despite the omission of some controversial aspects of Jackson’s life, the film nevertheless captures the essence of his artistry and influence, appealing to both longtime fans and new audiences.
With its ongoing box office success, “Michael” stands on the brink of a significant milestone, as fans eagerly await whether it will join “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie” in crossing the $1 billion threshold. As the film continues to draw audiences in, it remains to be seen how much further it can climb in revenue and critical acclaim.
Currently screening in theatres, “Michael” offers a compelling look at one of the most iconic figures in music history, ensuring that Jackson’s legacy endures for future generations to appreciate.