The first teaser trailer for Michael, the highly anticipated biopic about Michael Jackson, has been released — offering a glimpse of what appears to be a celebration of the pop icon’s musical genius and career highlights rather than his personal controversies.
The film stars Jaafar Jackson, Michael’s real-life nephew, who steps into his uncle’s shoes to portray some of the most legendary moments in pop culture — including the Moonwalk and the “Thriller” music video.
According to the official synopsis, Michael is described as “a cinematic portrayal of the life and legacy of one of the most influential artists the world has ever known.” The story promises to explore Jackson’s evolution “from his early days as the lead of the Jackson Five to his relentless pursuit of becoming the world’s greatest entertainer.”
Michael Jackson died in 2009 at age 50 from acute propofol intoxication.
Notably, the trailer makes no mention of Jackson’s legal battles or sexual abuse allegations, which have long shadowed his legacy. Jackson was acquitted of child molestation charges in 2006 following a highly publicized trial in California.
Earlier this year, entertainment outlet Puck reported that production faced delays after discovering that a contract clause related to the 1993 sexual abuse investigation — involving accuser Jordan Chandler — prohibited any dramatization of the Chandler family. The revelation reportedly forced filmmakers to rework portions of the script after filming had already begun.
Representatives for the Jackson family estate and director Antoine Fuqua declined to comment on the issue.
Fuqua, best known for Training Day and The Equalizer films, directs the biopic from a script by three-time Oscar nominee John Logan.
The ensemble cast includes Colman Domingo as family patriarch Joe Jackson, Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, and supporting roles played by Laura Harrier, Kat Graham, Derek Luke, Larenz Tate, and Miles Teller.
Michael is set to hit theaters on April 24, 2026.
