Story perspectives

Jaafar Jackson's “Michael” Tops Box Office, Shines at BET Awards

6/29/2026

Summary

Story summary

Biopic “Michael” starring Jaafar Jackson became highest-grossing biographical film, earning $977.4 million and surpassing “Oppenheimer.”
Jaafar Jackson and Nia Long presented the Best Male R&B/Pop Artist award at the 2026 BET Awards, arriving in navy outfits.
Jaafar Jackson thanked fans on stage, saying theaters were packed and the success mattered to his family.
Nia Long told the Angie Martinez podcast she missed a meeting with Prince and reflected on it.

History

Historical Context

Michael Jackson died on June 25 2009, after which his estate earned $825 million in 2016 alone and the concert film *This Is It* grossed $267.9 million worldwide. The estate’s lucrative catalog, sold to Sony for $600 million in 2024, paved the way for Jaafar Jackson’s 2026 biopic *Michael*, which opened to $217 million globally, underscoring the lasting commercial power of the Jackson brand.

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Story summary

Biopic “Michael” starring Jaafar Jackson became highest-grossing biographical film, earning $977.4 million and surpassing “Oppenheimer.”
Jaafar Jackson and Nia Long presented the Best Male R&B/Pop Artist award at the 2026 BET Awards, arriving in navy outfits.
Jaafar Jackson thanked fans on stage, saying theaters were packed and the success mattered to his family.
Nia Long told the Angie Martinez podcast she missed a meeting with Prince and reflected on it.

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