Michael Jackson Biopic Faces Delay and Major Reshoots Amid Legal Complications

May 23, 2025: The highly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, may not hit theaters until 2026, according to Lionsgate CEO Jon Feltheimer, who cited ongoing reshoots and strategic changes to the film’s release timeline.

Speaking during the company’s Q4 2025 earnings call on May 22, Feltheimer expressed enthusiasm about the project, noting that Lionsgate has “3½ hours of amazing footage” from director Antoine Fuqua and producer Graham King, but a new release strategy is still in the works.

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Originally slated for an April 18, 2025 release, the film was later pushed to October 3, 2025, and may now be postponed even further—beyond March 31, 2026, the end of Lionsgate’s fiscal year. This means Michael could debut no earlier than April 2026.

Lionsgate film chief Adam Fogelson also confirmed that the biopic will be split into two parts, as reported by Deadline.

The delay reportedly stems from legal issues involving a past settlement agreement between Jackson and accuser Jordan Chandler. A 1993 settlement prohibited any mention or dramatization of the Chandlers, but Puck reported that the original script—penned by John Logan—included details about the case. The oversight has necessitated substantial reshoots, which were set to begin in March 2025.

Despite rumors of production turmoil, a source told People that the project is “not in total chaos” and remains on track, with the team actively moving forward.

The biopic, titled Michael, stars Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson in the lead role. Coleman Domingo and Nia Long portray his parents, Joe and Katherine Jackson, while Miles Teller takes on the role of John Branca, the Jackson estate’s longtime attorney.

The film is directed by Antoine Fuqua, known for Training Day, and produced by Graham King, who previously helmed Bohemian Rhapsody.

Though principal photography wrapped in May 2024, no footage was shown during CinemaCon 2024, heightening speculation around its delay. The Jackson estate continues to deny all abuse allegations, including those raised in the 2019 documentary Leaving Neverland.

Lionsgate is expected to announce a final release strategy in the coming weeks.