Michael Jackson Biopic Shatters Box-Office Records Amid Controversy

“Michael,” Antoine Fuqua’s biopic of Michael Jackson, opened with $97 million in the United States and $120.4 million overseas, for a $217 million global debut—the highest opening for a musical biopic and the second-largest U.S. opening of 2026. IMAX contributed $13.8 million domestically and $24.5 million worldwide, about 14 % of the domestic total.

Michael Jackson Biopic Breaks Records

The script featured the 1993 child-molestation lawsuit against Jackson. A settlement clause barred any mention of accuser Jordan Chandler, forcing the third act to end in 1988, before the allegations. Reshoots added $50 million, raising the budget to $200 million. Lionsgate, Universal and the Jackson estate split the costs.

Associated Press

PostTrak shows ticket buyers were 61 % female and 66 % aged 25 or older; ethnic breakdown was 38 % Black, 26 % Latino, and 26 % White. Film earned an “A-” CinemaScore, a 97 % audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and a 97 % CinemaScore, while critics gave it a 38 % Rotten Tomatoes score.

Hollywood Reporter

Lionsgate chair Adam Fogelson said the film demonstrates Michael Jackson’s enduring cultural reach and that audiences are enjoying the theatrical experience. The Jackson estate confirmed a sequel and hinted at a third film.

Variety Magazine

Critics argue the film “whitewashes” Jackson by ending before the 1993 allegations, calling it a sanitized portrait. Independent’s Clarisse Loughrey wrote the movie “exists to be consumed as an act of allegiance… it resists story in favour of content.” Janet Jackson declined involvement; daughter Paris called it “fantasy land.”

The Independent

Audiences arrived in sequined gloves, black fedoras and red “Thriller” jackets, dancing and singing during screenings. New York viewer Grace Acosta called experience “a celebration of the greatest pop star of all time,” dismissing abuse allegations. Similar aisle-side dancing was reported in London, Atlanta and other markets.

New York Times

Sources differ on the exact budget ($165–200 million vs. $200 million) and on projected opening figures ($50–70 million versus the actual $97 million). Audience scores vary between 97 % on Rotten Tomatoes and 97 % on CinemaScore, while critic scores range from 38 % to 40 % across outlets.

Weekend Box Office: MICHAEL Moonwalks to $97M Domestic Debut, Crushing Music Biopic Record

“Michael” is Lionsgate’s biggest hit since 2015’s “Mockingjay – Part 2,” reviving confidence in high-budget musical biopics. The box-office performance despite critical backlash suggests audiences prioritize nostalgic spectacle over comprehensive biography, shaping future studio greenlights.

Variety Magazine

A sequel that continues Jackson’s story beyond 1988 is in development, with Fuqua expressing interest in directing. A third film is described as “not inconceivable,” and the studio aims to leverage momentum before the summer blockbuster slate begins.

The Guardian

• “The power of Michael Jackson’s reach into culture is undeniable,” — Adam Fogelson, Lionsgate

Variety Magazine

• “the movie is playing as a feel good, nostalgic appreciation. Audiences [are] on their feet, singing and dancing.” — David A. Gross, FranchiseRe

Variety Magazine

• “It exists to be consumed as an act of allegiance, as proof of fandom.” — Clarisse Loughrey, The Independent

The Independent

• “It’s only human nature to enjoy yourself at the movie theater,” — Paul Dergarabedian, Comscore

Associated Press