Second Michael Jackson Biopic Part to Film Before Early 2027

The highly successful Michael Jackson biopic, 'Michael,' which has garnered over $1.016 billion globally, is set to receive a sequel. Lionsgate, the production company behind the film, revealed that filming for the next installment is slated to commence by the end of 2026 or early 2027. The studio anticipates a release date in late 2027 or early 2028.

'Michael' has achieved the distinction of being the highest-grossing biopic in cinema history. Since its release on April 21, the film has earned $1.016 billion worldwide, with $372 million from North America and $643 million from international markets. The movie, starring Jaafar Jackson, the singer's nephew, and directed by Antoine Fuqua, chronicles Jackson's career from his early days with the Jackson 5 to his rise as a global superstar. The first film concluded with his 1987 'Bad' tour, leaving the specific period for the second film's narrative yet to be determined.

Initially, the first film was intended to address allegations of sexual abuse against Jackson. However, lawyers representing Jackson's estate discovered a clause in a settlement agreement with one accuser that prohibited such depictions in any film. This discovery necessitated a significant rewrite of the first movie's storyline.

Adam Fogelson, a studio executive, indicated that some of the material removed during the rewrite could potentially be repurposed for the upcoming sequel. "We have several sequences, especially some big musical sequences, that were shot previously and will almost certainly be incorporated," Fogelson stated during a call with investors. "Right now, we are focused primarily on how we can ensure that we can deliver, at the right price, the biggest and best possible sequel. That is what the audience will want and what they deserve after the experience we offered them the first time."