Story perspectives

Michael Biopic Opens, Aims $300 M, Faces Pay Lawsuit

5/3/2026

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Summary

Jaafar Jackson Debuts

The Michael Jackson biopic “Michael” opened on April 24, starring Jaafar Jackson, and is projected to exceed $300 million.
Rotten Tomatoes shows a 97% audience score, and Nia Long threatens action against Lionsgate over a “favored nations” clause she says paid her less than co-stars, with Lionsgate not commenting.
The film removed a third-act scene about the 1993 child-abuse allegations after a settlement with accuser Jordan Chandler barred any depiction of him.

Summary

Jackson Estate Sued

The Jackson Estate faces a 2026 lawsuit by siblings who allege fraud to silence abuse claims and accuse Michael Jackson of child predation that began when victims were seven or eight.
Marty Singer called the suit a “desperate money grab,” while Jackson’s brothers say accusers’ film ignores facts.
Civil suits by Wade Robson and James Safechuck were revived in 2023, allowing liability for Jackson’s businesses while the estate denies allegations.

History

Historical Context

After the 1993 child-abuse accusations by Jordan Chandler, Michael Jackson settled the civil case on Jan 25 1994 for about $23 million, placing $15,331,250 in a trust and barring any depiction of Chandler. That clause now forces the Jackson estate and Lionsgate to edit the upcoming 2026 “Michael” biopic, led by his son Jaafar, to comply with the 1994 agreement.

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Jaafar Jackson Debuts

The Michael Jackson biopic “Michael” opened on April 24, starring Jaafar Jackson, and is projected to exceed $300 million.
Rotten Tomatoes shows a 97% audience score, and Nia Long threatens action against Lionsgate over a “favored nations” clause she says paid her less than co-stars, with Lionsgate not commenting.
The film removed a third-act scene about the 1993 child-abuse allegations after a settlement with accuser Jordan Chandler barred any depiction of him.

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