Michael Biopic Release Date for ‘Michael Jackson’ Delayed

Lionsgate has made an exciting announcement regarding the highly anticipated Michael, the upcoming biopic centered around the life of the legendary Michael Jackson. Directed by the acclaimed Antoine Fuqua, the film is now scheduled for a wide theatrical release on October 3, 2025. This new date marks a shift from its original release, which was set for April 18, 2025, giving the production team additional time to perfect this cinematic tribute to the King of Pop.

The release date has been pushed back by a significant six months, which is not uncommon in the film industry, especially for major projects like this one. This strategic decision allows Lionsgate to optimize the film’s marketing and promotional strategies, ensuring that it receives the attention it deserves upon release.

Leading the cast in the role of Michael Jackson is Jaafar Jackson, the talented nephew of the late pop icon. His performance is expected to resonate deeply with fans, showcasing the legacy of his famous uncle. The supporting cast features notable actors such as Nia Long, Laura Harrier, Miles Teller, and Colman Domingo, each bringing their unique flair to the film. The project is directed by Antoine Fuqua, who is working from a compelling script penned by John Logan. Producers involved in this ambitious endeavor include industry veterans like Graham King, John Branca, and John McClain, ensuring that the film is in capable hands.

In addition to the biopic, Lionsgate has also announced the wide theatrical release of its comedy film Good Fortune, which is set to premiere on October 17, 2025. This film is helmed by the talented writer-director Aziz Ansari, who will be starring alongside a star-studded cast that includes Seth Rogen, Keke Palmer, Sandra Oh, and Keanu Reeves. The collaborative efforts of Ansari, Anthony Katagas, and Alan Yang as producers promise to deliver an entertaining experience for audiences.

The storyline of Good Fortune revolves around a well-meaning but somewhat oblivious angel, portrayed by Keanu Reeves. He gets involved in the lives of a beleaguered gig worker played by Aziz Ansari and a prosperous venture capitalist, played by Seth Rogen. This unique premise is bound to provide audiences with a blend of humor and heartfelt moments, making it a film to look forward to in the coming months.

During a recent panel at San Diego Comic-Con in July, director Antoine Fuqua shared insights into the production progress of Michael. He revealed that he was currently in the editing phase, working diligently to assemble the film into its final form. This level of attention to detail indicates Fuqua’s commitment to honoring Jackson’s legacy with utmost care.

Fuqua expressed his motivations for creating this biopic, stating, “Why I wanted to make it is, Michael. Michael was a significant part of my life growing up, a tremendous influence on my career, and an incredible artist — but he was also a human being, and we’re exploring that.” His excitement is palpable as he delves into the complexities of Jackson’s life and artistry, promising a nuanced portrayal that fans and newcomers alike will appreciate.

At CinemaCon in April, footage from Michael was showcased, where producer Graham King disclosed that the film would feature an impressive lineup of 30 songs. This extensive soundtrack is designed to complement Jackson’s narrative and contribute to a lengthy run time that aims to do justice to the multifaceted story of the King of Pop, ensuring that audiences are fully immersed in his musical journey.

Michael Jackson’s influence on the music industry and Billboard charts is truly unparalleled. As a solo artist, he achieved a remarkable 13 number-one singles on the Billboard Hot 100, with a total of 30 songs reaching the top 10. His iconic album Thriller shattered records, holding the number one position on the Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart for an astonishing 37 non-consecutive weeks from 1983 to 1984. Furthermore, it was the first album in history to produce seven Hot 100 top 10 singles, solidifying Jackson’s legacy as a music legend.

Incredibly, Jackson is the only artist to have secured top 10 hits on the Hot 100 across a span of five decades, from the 1970s to the 2010s. His groundbreaking achievement in 1983 of simultaneously topping both the Pop and R&B Album and Singles charts for six consecutive weeks further exemplifies his unparalleled talent and popularity during his prime.

After his passing in 2009, Jackson continued to break records posthumously. In a remarkable feat, three of his albums simultaneously held the top three positions on both the Billboard Top Pop Catalog Albums and Top Comprehensive Albums charts. This enduring legacy serves as a testament to his significant impact on the music industry and popular culture as a whole.