Colman Domingo, hot off outstanding performances in The Color Purple and Rustin, has committed to star in Lionsgate and Universal Pictures International’s Michael Jackson biopic, Michael. Domingo is attached to play Jackson family patriarch Joe Jackson.
“Colman has such incredible range – he puts in the work to deeply inhabit his characters and understand their true essence and motivation,” said director Antoine Fuqua (The Equalizer films). “I’m grateful to be working with an actor with his passion and ability to portray the many sides of Joe Jackson: a husband, a father, and a manager.”
Jaafar Jackson, son of Jermaine Jackson and a nephew of Michael’s, will make his feature film acting debut in the titular role. Oscar nominee John Logan wrote the screenplay, with Oscar winner Graham King/GK Films (The Departed) and the co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate, John Branca and John McClain, producing.
“I’m excited to be a part of a film that explores both the complicated soul of the legendary Michael Jackson as well as his impact on music and culture as a global icon. Not only am I fortunate to have a rich, complex, and flawed character to portray in Joe Jackson, but I also have a front-row seat for Jaafar’s incredible transformation,” said Colman Domingo. “After seeing him in rehearsal, my mind was blown. There is something divine about the way that Jaafar is channeling his late uncle. His talent and embodiment of Michael’s essence is simply on another level.”
Lionsgate is targeting an April 18, 2025 theatrical release.
“Michael will bring audiences a riveting and honest portrayal of the brilliant yet complicated man who became known worldwide as the King of Pop. The film presents his triumphs and tragedies on an epic, cinematic scale — from his human side and personal struggles to his undeniable creative genius, captured by his most iconic performances,” reads Lionsgate’s synopsis. “As never before, audiences will experience an inside look into one of the most influential, trailblazing artists the world has ever known.”
Colman Domingo earned his first Oscar nomination for his starring role in Rustin. Domingo’s performance also earned BAFTA, Critics Choice, Golden Globe, and Screen Actors Guild awards nominations. Additional credits include Euphoria, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, Fear the Walking Dead, and Zola.
