Story perspectives

Michael Jackson Biopic Hits $912 M, Becomes Top Musical Film

6/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

Lionsgate reports that the Michael Jackson biopic “Michael” has become the highest-grossing musical biopic ever, earning $911.9 million worldwide.
The film has taken $358.6 million domestically and $553.3 million internationally, with Universal contributing $540.5 million of the overseas total.
The Jackson estate’s objection to a plot point triggered a $50 million reshoot.
The film opens in Japan today as Lionsgate partners with Kino.
Russia’s theatrical run has collected $10 million.

History

Historical Context

The 2018 release of Bohemian Rhapsody, portraying Queen’s Freddie Mercury, revived the 19th-century French bohemian ideal of artist-centered storytelling that emerged in Paris’s Latin Quarter. Its box-office triumph spurred studios such as Warner Bros. to fund further music-legend biopics, including the later Michael Jackson biopic that surpassed its earnings, echoing the historic link between bohemian culture and popular media.

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Story summary

Lionsgate reports that the Michael Jackson biopic “Michael” has become the highest-grossing musical biopic ever, earning $911.9 million worldwide.
The film has taken $358.6 million domestically and $553.3 million internationally, with Universal contributing $540.5 million of the overseas total.
The Jackson estate’s objection to a plot point triggered a $50 million reshoot.
The film opens in Japan today as Lionsgate partners with Kino.
Russia’s theatrical run has collected $10 million.

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