In the United States, Michael climbed to No. 2 on Billboard’s Artist 100, his highest position of 2026. He also became the first solo artist to score a new Billboard Hot 100 entry in six different decades, thanks to the chart debut of “Chicago.” During the same period, he placed six songs on the Billboard Hot 100 simultaneously, Thriller re-entered the Billboard 200 top 10, and he set a new personal weekly streaming record in the U.S., surpassing 137 million on demand streams. Rather than fading after opening weekend, his catalog continued attracting listeners week after week.

The United Kingdom experienced an equally remarkable resurgence. The Essential Michael Jackson returned to No. 1 on the Official Albums Chart, more than two decades after its original release. “Billie Jean” climbed back into the Top 5, reaching No. 4 for its highest position since 1983, while “Beat It” and “Human Nature” also returned to the Top 10 (creating a new peak for “Human Nature”). Meanwhile, Michael: Songs From the Motion Picture reached No. 1 on the Official Soundtrack Albums Chart, highlighting renewed interest in both the film and Michael’s original recordings.

Streaming platforms told an even bigger story. On Spotify, Michael reached a career high of 113.1 million monthly listeners, making him the fourth most-listened-to artist in the world. At his peak, he ranked ahead of many of today’s biggest artists, including Taylor Swift, Drake, Ed Sheeran, Billie Eilish, Kendrick Lamar, Ariana Grande, and Sabrina Carpenter. Even months later, he has remained above 100 million monthly listeners, demonstrating that the renewed interest extended well beyond the film’s theatrical release.

Digital sales mirrored that momentum. Worldwide iTunes charts were dominated by the King of Pop, with four albums simultaneously in the global Top 10 and eight albums in the Top 25. Michael: Songs From the Motion Picture peaked at No. 2 worldwide, while Thriller, Bad, Dangerous, HIStory, Off the Wall, Number Ones, and The Essential Michael Jackson all surged back up the rankings. Apple Music reflected a similar trend, with the soundtrack reaching No. 2 globally while multiple Michael albums charted simultaneously across its worldwide rankings.

Taken together, the performances across Billboard, the UK, Spotify, iTunes, and Apple Music show that this was about far more than a successful movie. The film provided the spark, but the enduring success has come from the strength of Michael’s catalog itself. New generations have discovered one of popular music’s greatest collections of songs, while longtime fans have returned in record numbers, proving once again that timeless music continues to resonate across generations.

The film’s success goes far beyond setting a new benchmark for music biopics. It has now overtaken every previous biographical film ever released, proving that audiences around the world continue to connect with Michael’s legacy. Strong international support has played a major role, with moviegoers across Europe, Asia, Latin America and beyond helping propel the film to its record-breaking total.

The film stars Jaafar Jackson in his feature film debut, portraying his uncle with a performance that has attracted significant attention from audiences. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the production follows Michael’s journey from his childhood with the Jackson 5 through his rise to becoming one of the most influential entertainers in history. Its impressive box office run has been driven by repeat viewings, global fan support and interest from younger audiences discovering his story on the big screen for the first time.

The billion-dollar milestone is especially significant because biographical films have traditionally earned far less than major superhero, fantasy or action franchises. By breaking through that ceiling, Michael has demonstrated that a compelling story centered on one of music’s greatest icons can compete with the biggest releases in modern cinema. It also establishes a new commercial benchmark that future biopics will inevitably be measured against.

For Lionsgate, the film represents the studio’s first release to cross the billion-dollar mark worldwide, making it one of the most successful projects in the company’s history. More broadly, the achievement reinforces Michael’s lasting global popularity, showing that decades after transforming popular music, his artistry continues to resonate with audiences across generations. As Michael continues its theatrical run, its historic performance stands as another reminder of the extraordinary cultural impact Michael still has around the world.

Physical editions will follow on July 14, when the film arrives on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD. These releases include a range of special features that offer a closer look at how the production came together.

Among the bonus content is a feature exploring the making of the film, taking viewers through its development and production. Another featurette visits the Jackson family home, Hayvenhurst, where Jaafar Jackson shares personal insights while touring the iconic estate and reflecting on its significance in Michael Jackson’s life and career.

Other behind the scenes material focuses on the cast’s transformation into their real-life counterparts. Time-lapse footage showcases the detailed makeup work used throughout filming, while another segment follows Jaafar Jackson during his earliest days preparing for the role. Fans will also get a glimpse of the dedication required to recreate Michael’s unforgettable performances, with footage highlighting the choreography, rehearsals, and physical preparation behind the musical sequences.

The home release gives audiences who missed the theatrical run a chance to experience the film, while also offering returning viewers new reasons to revisit it through its collection of exclusive extras. From the filmmaking process to the extensive preparation of the cast, the bonus features provide additional insight into the effort involved in bringing Michael Jackson’s story to the screen. Whether watching digitally or adding the physical release to their collection, fans will have multiple ways to enjoy the film and explore the work that went into recreating one of music’s most celebrated careers.

Following Michael’s death in 2009, McClain was appointed co-executor of his estate alongside attorney John Branca. Together, they transformed it into one of the entertainment industry’s most successful posthumous enterprises. Under their leadership, the estate generated billions of dollars while introducing Michael’s work to new generations through music releases, films, theatrical productions, licensing agreements, and major partnerships.

McClain and Michael had shared a professional relationship for many years, with McClain contributing to various recording projects and helping shape releases issued after Michael’s passing. He was involved in productions including This Is It, Michael, Xscape, and songs such as “Love Never Felt So Good” and “Much Too Soon,” helping ensure unfinished material was completed and presented with care.

John Branca paid tribute to his longtime colleague, describing McClain as both a close friend and an innovator whose vision helped shape countless successful projects. While McClain’s passing leaves a significant void, the foundation he helped build ensures Michael Jackson’s music and artistic legacy will continue to reach audiences around the world for years to come. Branca is expected to continue overseeing the estate going forward.

The resurgence doesn’t stop at the summit. Michael’s influence is felt across the entire Top 10, with the legendary Thriller climbing to number 6 and the 1987 classic Bad sitting comfortably at number 8. It is a rare and remarkable feat to see three albums from a single artist commanding the upper echelons of the charts simultaneously, further cementing Michael’s status as a timeless icon.

The singles chart is reflecting this same incredible momentum. The undisputed masterpiece “Billie Jean” has cracked the Top 5, leaping to number 4 as the public rediscover its infectious bassline and magic. Close behind, the high-energy anthem “Beat It” has secured the number 10 spot, while the disco-infused classic “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” has danced its way to number 15. Even Michael’s earliest beginnings are being celebrated; the Jackson 5’s infectious hit “I Want You Back” has re-entered the charts at number 33, proving that the world’s love for his voice spans his entire career.

This chart dominance is a joyous celebration of Michael’s artistry. Whether it is through the nostalgia of long-time fans or the discovery of his genius by a new generation, Michael’s music continues to bring people together. The King of Pop is back at number one, and the world is once again moving to his rhythm.

What sets this production apart is its rigorous commitment to historical authenticity. The footage reveals painstakingly recreated moments from Michael’s career, including the legendary 1984 Victory Tour and the groundbreaking Bad World Tour. To ensure every nuance is captured correctly, the production enlisted Michael’s original collaborators. Drummer Jonathan Moffett, guitarist Jennifer Batten, co-choreographer Vincent Paterson, and musical director Greg Phillinganes were all present on set, lending their expertise to help recreate the magic they once lived.

The emotional weight of the project is evident among those closest to Michael. His brother, Marlon Jackson, serving as an executive producer, shared his pride in seeing Jaafar embody Michael’s spirit. Michael’s son, Prince Jackson, also an executive producer, noted that the production feels like the closest he will ever get to seeing his father perform live again. Backup singer Darryl Phinnessee even remarked on how Jaafar captures Michael’s signature small movements with uncanny precision. This collective effort by family and former colleagues has created what many describe as a “time capsule,” ensuring that Michael’s artistry is preserved with the utmost respect and detail for future generations.

The global release of the biopic Michael has done more than just fill cinema seats, becoming a global smash hit sensation; it has ignited a worldwide musical renaissance and outpouring of love for Michael Jackson. As audiences rediscover the artistry of the King of Pop, Michael is currently dominating the global music charts with a ferocity rarely seen for a legacy artist.

In the United Kingdom, the impact of the film is undeniable. The official charts are currently a showcase of Michael’s timeless discography. The Michael motion picture soundtrack has debuted at a staggering #4, closely followed by the evergreen Number Ones at #5. The legendary Thriller has climbed back into the top ten at #8, while Bad and The Essential Michael Jackson hold strong at #13 and #14, respectively.

Michael’s influence extends deep into the singles chart as well, where “Billie Jean” has vaulted to #13, followed by “Beat It” at #22 and the infectious “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” at #23.

The “Michael-mania” is equally potent across the Atlantic and on digital platforms:

• US Billboard 200: Thriller has surged to #7, with Number Ones securing the #13 spot.

• Billboard Hot 100: The iconic “Billie Jean” has re-entered the top 40 at #38.

• Spotify: Michael is now the 11th most streamed artist in the world. His monthly listeners have exploded from 22 million in 2019 to over 87 million today.

• iTunes: Thriller currently sits at #1 on the Worldwide iTunes Album chart. Amazingly, Michael has seven albums in the top 40, with five of those appearing in the top 15.

Michael has also reached the No. 1 spot on the Global Digital Artist Ranking, outperforming modern heavyweights. The film has also shattered records, earning the best opening day for a music biopic while grossing over $446 million worldwide within its first few weeks.

For audiences, “Michael” is the high-octane, emotional journey they have been waiting for. The film offers a front-row seat to the artistry and relentless work ethic that propelled Michael Jackson to global superstardom. From the meticulously choreographed recreations of the “Thriller” era to the electric energy of the Motown 25 performance, the film serves as a vibrant love letter to Michael’s musical genius.

The Rotten Tomatoes “Popcornmeter” is glowing, with thousands of verified film goers praising the film’s ability to capture the magic of Michael. Many reviewers have noted that the theater experience feels less like a traditional movie and more like a live event, with audiences reportedly cheering and dancing in the aisles.

At the heart of this success is Jaafar Jackson, who delivers what many are calling the performance of a lifetime. In his film debut, Jaafar doesn’t just play his uncle; he embodies him. Audiences have been left in awe of his uncanny ability to mimic Michael’s soft-spoken cadence, his legendary physical precision, and that singular delicacy and steel that made Michael a global icon.

The supporting cast, including Nia Long as Katherine Jackson and Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, adds a rich emotional layer to the narrative, providing a grounded look at the family dynamics that fueled Michael’s ambition.

The glowing audience reception is translating into massive numbers. With an opening weekend approaching $100 million domestically and over $200 million worldwide, Michael is already the highest-grossing musical biopic in history.

Ultimately, the 97% audience score proves that the world’s appetite for Michael Jackson’s legacy remains undiminished. By focusing on the sheer brilliance of his craft and the humanity behind the headlines, Fuqua has delivered a cinematic experience that finally does justice to the greatest entertainer of all time.

The retrospective begins by tracing Michael’s early years as the breakout lead of the Jackson 5 before chronicling his unprecedented rise as a solo artist. Central to the narrative are the landmark albums that fundamentally altered the music industry’s trajectory. The magazine explores the creative process and cultural impact of “Thriller,” “Bad,” and “Dangerous,” documenting how these records shattered sales benchmarks and set new standards for pop production.

Beyond his vocal performances, the issue examines Michael’s wider influence on the arts, specifically his contributions to dance and high fashion. A significant portion of the publication is dedicated to his short films, noting how groundbreaking videos like “Billie Jean” and “Beat It” helped redefine the music video as a cinematic art form. These works are presented as the foundation for the visual language that still dominates the entertainment industry today.

The publication also serves as a study of Michael’s enduring legacy. It highlights the numerous records he still holds and the diverse generations of artists who cite him as a primary inspiration. By combining high quality photography with expert analysis, the issue is designed to appeal to both lifelong followers and younger fans who are just beginning to discover his work.

Click here to purchase your copy.

In the featurette, Jaafar, Michael’s nephew, discusses the weight of the role, acknowledging that he knew from the start how challenging it would be to step into his uncle’s shoes. Director Antoine Fuqua reinforces this sentiment, emphasizing that:

“You can’t just go through a Michael Jackson move casually.”

Every step, every gesture, and every detail matters. Producer Graham King adds that there was an initial uncertainty about whether Jaafar could truly pull off such a feat, prompting the young actor to ask for time to prove himself to the filmmakers and his family.

Jaafar’s commitment to the role is evident in his rigorous rehearsal schedule. He describes practicing for hours on end, dancing until his feet were sore or even bleeding, driven by a desire to get every single movement right. He often found himself reflecting on what Michael would do in certain situations, using that as a guiding force during the more grueling moments of production. This dedication extended right up to the start of filming, with Fuqua noting that Jaafar never stopped practicing.

Ultimately, Jaafar expresses his hope that the film will evoke a sense of “magic” for audiences worldwide. With early access tickets now on sale, the film is poised to be a major cinematic event, offering a deep dive into the life and legacy of a man whose influence continues to resonate across generations. As the release date approaches, the excitement surrounding the movie “Michael” continues to grow, fueled by the passion and hard work of everyone involved in bringing this story to the big screen.

Notably, the Bad era is represented by only a single track, the title song, suggesting the film may focus more intensely on Michael’s meteoric rise rather than his later career. This once again all but confirms the movie will be split up into two separate parts.

The album is set to drop the week of April 24th, to be timed with the movie’s theatrical debut. Collectors will have plenty of options, as the soundtrack will be available as a double vinyl album, CD, and for the nostalgic ones out there, cassettes tape. The tracklisting for all formats is:

1. I’ll Be There
2. Never Can Say Goodbye
3. Who’s Lovin’ You
4. Medley: I Want You Back/ABC/The Love You Save
5. Ben
6. Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough
7. Beat It
8. Thriller
9. Billie Jean
10. Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’
11. Human Nature
12. Working Day and Night
13. Bad

You can pre-order your physical copy from today.

The teaser certainly intensifies the anticipation for one of the most awaited cinematic events of 2026. The film, which stars Jaafar Jackson as his uncle, the “King of Pop,” offers a sweeping look at the complex life and unparalleled career of Michael. It is yet unknown the timeline for this movie, and rumors are circulating that it will be released in two parts.

The newly released footage highlights the film’s ambitious scope, tracing Michael’s trajectory from his humble beginnings in Gary, Indiana, to his status as the artist behind the biggest-selling record of all time. A poignant moment in the trailer features a young Michael being told he is “perfect pitch,” foreshadowing the musical phenomenon he would become. Jaafar Jackson’s portrayal appears to capture the essence of Michael’s stage presence, including his iconic dance moves and the soft-spoken vulnerability he was known for offstage.

The trailer emphasizes Michael’s drive for greatness, specifically his goal to launch “the largest concert tour there ever was”. This ambition is set against the backdrop of his deep love for his family and his eventual desire to forge his own path as a solo artist. Visuals in the spot promise a sensory-rich experience, designed to immerse audiences in the music and legacy of the global icon.

Michael is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release in April 2026. To ensure the largest possible canvas for Michael’s story, the film will be available in IMAX and other premium large formats. Fans eager to secure their seats for the opening can look forward to early access tickets, which will be going on sale tomorrow.

For Fuqua, Michael’s influence stretches far beyond the realm of music; it was a guiding force in his own trajectory as a filmmaker. He vividly recalls how Michael’s unprecedented international fame demonstrated a “no ceiling” mentality for young Black men at the time.

Translating Michael’s life into a cinematic experience felt like a natural fit for Fuqua, who describes the music icon as “larger than life” even when watched on a television screen. However, rather than simply delivering a highlight reel of spectacular performances, Fuqua’s vision for “Michael” aims to peel back the glittering curtain. The film seeks to explore Michael fundamentally as a human being. It will thoughtfully acknowledge his internal complexities, particularly the enduring struggle between his profound love for his family and his unwavering dedication to his music. Michael’s life, as Fuqua notes, was uniquely dedicated to bringing joy to the world through his voice and unparalleled artistry.

Fuqua describes Michael’s iconic dance moves not just as groundbreaking choreography, but as a dynamic conversation with his audience, a universal language that completely transcended the barriers of color and race. He believes that Michael created music with the genuine intention of changing the world, which is exactly “where the magic lives.”

Ultimately, Fuqua describes his goal for “Michael” being deeply empathetic. When the credits roll, he wants audiences to leave the theater feeling that they finally, truly understand Michael Jackson on a much deeper, more intimately human level.

The footage blends raw behind-the-scenes rehearsal clips with insightful interviews, capturing the gravity of portraying the King of Pop. Despite being no stranger to musical epics after his smash hit “Bohemian Rhapsody,” producer Graham King admitted the weight of the project has only grown over time, saying,

“The challenge of taking on someone like Michael Jackson, it sounded fun. But then the more real it got, the more pressure I felt.”

The heart of the preview however centers around Jaafar Jackson in the titular role. Fuqua recalled being instantly sold on the young performer, stating he “killed it” from the start. Jaafar, who is Michael’s nephew, seems to possess a preternatural connection to the role, describing the opportunity as his “calling.” Fuqua added,

“That’s the magic of Jaafar. He has the desire like Michael to be the best.”

Beyond the interviews, the preview showcases never-before-seen making of footage of the crew meticulously recreating the Bad Tour concerts, along with rehearsing iconic dance routines. The film is all but setup to be a love letter to Michael’s artistry.

Watch the full preview below:

The trailer opens on an intimate note, with Michael psyching himself up in the studio. “You’re confident. You’re strong. You’re the greatest of all time,” can be heard in the voiceover, before the footage erupts into a montage of the singer’s life. The preview spans Michael’s journey from the commanding lead of the Jackson 5 to the global superstar who shattered records with Thriller.

Central to the trailer is the intense family dynamic that fueled Michael’s rise. Colman Domingo delivers a chilling performance as Joe Jackson, the demanding patriarch who pushes his sons to escape a life of labor. “I told you what to think” he says condescending to Michael.

Visually, the trailer dazzles with meticulous recreations of pop culture history. Fans are treated to glimpses of the “Thriller” and “Beat It” music videos, as well as the history making moonwalk at the Motown 25 special. Jaafar Jackson, whose casting has drawn significant attention, appears to capture Michael’s physicality and soft-spoken demeanor with uncanny precision.

Produced by Graham King (Bohemian Rhapsody) and written by John Logan, Michael promises a definitive, albeit complex, portrait of the man behind the myth.

Michael arrives in theaters and IMAX on April 24, 2026.