**Support Grows for Michael Jackson Biopic Amid Mixed Reviews**
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Amidst a wave of largely negative reviews for the biopic “Michael,” relatives of the late pop icon are stepping forward to express their support for the film, particularly highlighting the performance of Jaafar Jackson, who portrays his legendary uncle. Taj Jackson, one of Michael’s nephews, openly countered the critical reception on social media, declaring that he looks forward to a time when critics will have to reconsider their harsh judgments.
Taj, along with his brother TJ Jackson, son of Tito Jackson, attended the film’s Los Angeles premiere alongside other family members. Their attendance underscores a show of solidarity as “Michael” prepares for its wider release on April 24. The Jackson family is keen to promote a narrative that aligns more closely with their memories of the late King of Pop.
On social media platform X, Taj stated, “Sorry media, you don’t get to control the narrative anymore of who Michael Jackson truly was. The public will decide for themselves.” He further expressed eagerness for critics to “eat crow,” a phrase indicating he believes they will have to reconsider their reviews once audiences experience the film for themselves.
TJ Jackson has also taken to social media to voice his enthusiasm, praising both Jaafar’s performance and the portrayal of Joe Jackson, their grandfather, by Colman Domingo. He stated that Jaafar’s performance encapsulates the essence of his uncle and expressed his pride in being part of this project. “I wouldn’t miss this opportunity to be masked in the electrifying energy that will be in that theatre for nothing,” he shared, emphasising the importance of honouring Michael’s legacy.
The film premiered on April 20 at the TCL Chinese Theatre, featuring several Jackson family members, including Michael’s siblings and his son, Prince. While the premiere was a celebratory occasion, not all family members have supported the project. Janet Jackson decided against being portrayed in the film, and Paris Jackson, Michael’s daughter, has previously stated that she was not involved in the production.
Jaafar, who is Jermaine Jackson’s son, spoke about the responsibility of portraying his uncle and the pressure to honour the family’s legacy. “I knew to make my family proud, I would have to have a work ethic that was incredible and really take on everything the way Michael would,” he reflected on the red carpet prior to the film’s release.
The biopic aims to chronicle Michael Jackson’s life, focusing on his remarkable rise to fame as a member of The Jackson 5 and his subsequent solo career. It also addresses the complexities of his relationships, including a significant break from his family and father’s management during the 1980s.
The film features child actor Juliano Valdi, who depicts a young Michael Jackson, with Jaafar stepping into the role during the pop star’s adult years. As the film gears up for its broader release, it hopes to shed light on the multifaceted nature of Jackson’s life, illustrating both his musical genius and the challenges he faced in the public eye.
Despite the negative critical reception, the Jackson family remains optimistic about the film’s impact, believing that audiences will resonate more with the film than critics have. As opening weekend approaches, their unwavering support demonstrates a commitment to preserving Michael Jackson’s legacy as they hope viewers will see him in a new light.
As “Michael” prepares to launch in cinemas nationwide, it remains to be seen how audiences will respond and whether the film will defy prevalent critical opinions. Whether it will succeed in redefining the narrative around the iconic figure is a matter of anticipation among fans and family alike.