Story perspectives

Record $217 M Opening for “Michael” Despite Critics’ Pans

4/28/2026

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Summary

Michael’s Record Opening

Michael, starring Jaafar Jackson, opened April 24, 2026 and earned $97 million domestically and $217 million worldwide, a record opening.
Production costs rose to $200 million after $50 million reshoots were mandated by a clause barring mention of the accuser.
Critics gave the film 38% on Rotten Tomatoes.
The film received a 97% audience score and an A-minus from CinemaScore.
Adam Fogelson said a sequel is being explored after Black viewers comprised 38% of the audience.

Summary

Jaafar Channels Michael

Fuqua chose Jaafar Jackson after a makeup and camera test revealed a striking likeness to Michael Jackson.
Producer Graham King flew to the Amalfi Coast to pitch the film to Fuqua, who wants to humanize Michael for younger viewers.
A surprise on-set interview had Jaafar answer as Michael, prompting crew emotion.
The shoot staged a “Bad” number with 1,000 extras on the Sony lot to capture stage energy.

History

Historical Context

In 1978 Paramount released The Buddy Holly Story, starring Gary Busey, whose Academy Award-nominated performance highlighted the film’s critical acclaim. That success signaled studios’ interest in music-icon stories, a pattern Sony repeated in 2026 with its Michael Jackson biopic starring Jaafar Jackson. Studios continue to bank on proven legacy-artist demand.

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Michael’s Record Opening

Michael, starring Jaafar Jackson, opened April 24, 2026 and earned $97 million domestically and $217 million worldwide, a record opening.
Production costs rose to $200 million after $50 million reshoots were mandated by a clause barring mention of the accuser.
Critics gave the film 38% on Rotten Tomatoes.
The film received a 97% audience score and an A-minus from CinemaScore.
Adam Fogelson said a sequel is being explored after Black viewers comprised 38% of the audience.

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