It has been rumoured that the big-budget four-hour-long Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, might be split into two films.
Michael is the latest in a long line of biopics, which is set to tell the story of the troubled child star turned legendary pop star who died in 2009 at the age of 50.
Michael promises fans a ‘riveting and honest portrayal of the brilliant man who became the King of Pop’.
‘The film presents his triumphs and tragedies on an epic, cinematic scale – from his human side and personal struggles to his undeniable creative genius, exemplified by his most iconic performances.’
It has been reported by Deadline that the film, directed by Antoine Fuqua, may be split into two films, due to the extensive hours of footage.
The Lionsgate and Universal Pictures International project had an eye-watering $155 million (£118 million) budget, and this rumoured split in the movie could mean its release date is pushed back.
The Lionsgate and Universal Pictures International biopic was initially slated to have a worldwide release on April 18, 2025 but reshoots for the film were still taking place in March 2025.
The film stars Jackson’s real-life nephew, 28-year-old Jaafar Jackson. In snaps from the set, Jaafar has been seen wearing a blue and red military jacket with gold embellishments similar to many pieces worn by Michael throughout his career.
Jaafar is joined by Sing Sing star Colman Domingo, who will play Jackson’s father, Joe Jackson.
Nia Long has been cast as Jackson’s mother, Katherine Jackson, Kat Graham will play Diana Ross, and Miles Teller appears as lawyer John Branca.
Nine-year-old rising star Juliano Krue Valdi has also been cast as the young Michael.
The reports of the film being split into two parts come after it was revealed that the biopic was ‘forced to axe’ big scenes after a legal issue with a sexual abuse accuser.
It has been confirmed that part of the biopic focuses on Jordan Chandler’s claims and the 1993 investigation after Chandler claimed Jackson sexually abused him at age 13, which the singer denied.
According to outlet Puck, a deal was signed that prevents Jackson’s estate ufrom sing the cast in the film. This means the already-filmed section has had to be scrapped and must be completely reworked.
Deadline also ‘confirmed’: ‘The Jackson estate explicitly wanted nothing about Chandler in the film, so the fact that the allegations do appear has led to a fierce internal dispute and extensive reshoots.’
Michael is set to be released at present at October 3, 2025.
Metro has reached out to Lionsgate representatives for comment.
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