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8 months ago
40 ARTICLE AD
The Michael Jackson biopic Michael from Lionsgate and Universal Pictures International has added seven in key roles: Larenz Tate (Power Book II: Ghost), Kat Graham (Black, White & Blue), Jessica Sula (Split), Liv Symone (Power Book III: Raising Kanan), Kendrick Sampson (Something from Tiffany’s), KeiLyn Durrel Jones (How to Die Alone), and Kevin Shinick.
Tate plays Motown Records founder and impresario Berry Gordy, with Graham as Diana Ross, lead singer of The Supremes; Sula as Michael’s older sister, La Toya; Symone as Motown artist Gladys Knight; Sampson as iconic songwriter, composer, and producer Quincy Jones; Jones as Jackson 5 security guard turned confidante to Michael, Bill Bray; and Shinick as American Bandstand host Dick Clark.
As previously announced, Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson leads the ensemble as Michael, with Colman Domingo, Nia Long, Miles Teller, Laura Harrier, and Juliano Krue Valdi among others set for key roles.
Currently in production, Michael promises to bring audiences a riveting and honest portrayal of the brilliant yet complicated man who became known worldwide as the King of Pop. The film will examine Jackson’s triumphs and tragedies — from his human side, to his public and private struggles, to the accusations and the 24/7 media microscope Jackson lived under, even at his artistic apex. Pic will also capture Michael’s undeniable creative genius, recreating his most memorable, iconic performances.
Antoine Fuqua is directing from a script by John Logan, with Graham King/GK Films producing. Prince Jackson, Michael’s eldest son, is working side-by-side with the filmmakers on set, on behalf of his siblings. In addition to King, producers include the co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate, John Branca and John McClain. Lionsgate is distributing the film domestically, while Universal Pictures International will handle all international territories apart from Japan, which Lionsgate will oversee.
Pic’s slated for release worldwide on April 18, 2025.
