Jaafar Jackson, the nephew of the legendary pop icon Michael Jackson, has undergone an extraordinary journey to prepare for his role in the forthcoming biopic titled “Michael.” Rather than simply researching from a distance, the 29-year-old singer and dancer took to his family’s ancestral home, Hayvenhurst, nestled in Encino, California, to immerse himself in the very essence of his uncle’s life.
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In a recent conversation with co-star Miles Teller for Interview Magazine, Jaafar shared insights into his unconventional method of preparation, which involved sleeping on the floor of the estate. “I slept in many different rooms in the house just to feel the energy,” he remarked, expressing how important it was to connect with the environment that shaped Michael’s formative years and creative spirit.
Jaafar, whose father is Jermaine Jackson, a fellow member of the iconic Jackson 5, described his experience as transformative. “It’s the type of experience that reshapes who you are for the better,” he conveyed, emphasising the significance of embodying his uncle’s character authentically. Teller portrays John Branca, the entertainment lawyer and co-executor of Michael’s estate, and together they navigated the emotional landscape of the film’s storyline.
In his quest for authenticity, Jaafar delved deep into Michael’s personal writings, unearthing journals, poems, mantras, and affirmations. However, the real magic happened when he decided to sleep in Hayvenhurst, which he referred to as his “playground.” “There’s no furniture in the house at Hayvenhurst,” he laughed, recounting how he opted for a traditional, thin Japanese-style mattress rather than any modern comforts. “Always on the floor.” This unique sleeping arrangement allowed him to experience the house’s ambience, enhancing his understanding of what it meant to be Michael Jackson.
The Hayvenhurst estate itself is steeped in history. Purchased by Joe Jackson in 1971 when Michael was just 13 years old, it served as both home and sanctuary for the family. Jaafar spoke fondly of his time growing up there, revealing that he even set up a “research room” during his stay to continue his studies. “Staying there allowed that to happen without forcing it,” he explained. “Without that, I don’t think my performance would be what it is, honestly.”
Jaafar’s initiative did not end with sleep – he made use of every aspect of the estate, including the dance room where Michael honed his skills. “I started training there,” he recounted, a nod to the rigorous discipline that defined his uncle’s legendary career. Today, the Hayvenhurst estate remains within the Jackson family and is not open to the public, highlighting its intimate connection to Michael’s legacy.
Reflecting on the emotional weight of filming at such a significant location, Jaafar commented, “There were so many things going on in my head while trying to be present.” He recalled memories of his grandfather and the deep affection he felt seeing co-stars embodying family members. “Having that love and that passion and those little subtleties that really make her who she is, it was very emotional,” he stated.
The highly anticipated film, directed by Antoine Fuqua, is set to premiere on April 24 and promises to delve into the complexities of the “Man in the Mirror” singer’s life, capturing both his monumental successes and poignant struggles.
As Jaafar prepares to step into the spotlight, the weight of his family’s legacy rests on his shoulders. Yet, by immersing himself so fully in the life and home of Michael Jackson, he hopes not only to honour his uncle’s memory but also to share a deeply personal interpretation of one of the music industry’s most iconic figures.