By Dex Monroe|June 11, 2026|3h ago|4 min read|🤖 AI-assisted

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Behind the Curtain: Exclusive Photos from the Michael Jackson Biopic "Michael"

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Behind the Curtain: Exclusive Photos from the Michael Jackson Biopic "Michael"

The biopic "Michael" is taking the box office by storm, and Billboard offers an exclusive look behind-the-scenes as the King of Pop's legacy shines anew.

The King of Pop is back in a big way. The biopic "Michael," centered on the life and career of the late Michael Jackson, is dominating the box office and reintroducing his legendary music to both new and longtime fans. Directed by Antoine Fuqua and featuring Jaafar Jackson, Michael's own nephew, in the titular role, the film is proving to be a cultural phenomenon, breaking records and making waves across the Billboard charts. As of June 7, "Michael" became Lionsgate's highest-grossing film of all time, raking in an astounding $898 million globally. This impressive figure is set to rise further as the film prepares for its release in Japan on June 12. This remarkable success showcases not only the enduring popularity of Michael Jackson but also the film's ability to resonate with audiences around the world. Billboard has exclusively released a treasure trove of behind-the-scenes photos from the film, offering fans a closer look at the camaraderie and hard work that went into bringing the King of Pop's story to life. These images reveal moments such as Fuqua coaching Jaafar Jackson on how to hold his headphones in a pivotal recording booth scene, showcasing the director's commitment to authenticity. The playful interactions between the young actors, including Juliano Valdi (who portrays young Michael) and Larenz Tate (as Berry Gordy), reflect the nurturing environment fostered on set, essential for capturing the essence of Jackson's early years. The narrative of "Michael" meticulously chronicles Jackson's journey from his days with the Jackson 5 to his iconic solo career, featuring classic hits like "Off the Wall" and "Thriller." The film culminates in 1988, just as he prepared for the worldwide "Bad" tour, a career-defining moment that solidified his status as a global superstar. "Michael" boasts an impressive cast beyond Jaafar Jackson, including Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Miles Teller as entertainment lawyer John Branca, and Nia Long as Katherine Jackson. Each actor contributes depth to the film, bringing to life the complex relationships that shaped the King of Pop's legacy. But the film's impact extends well beyond the theater. Thanks to its release, Michael Jackson's music is soaring back to the forefront of popular culture. For the first time, he reached No. 1 on the Artist 100 chart on May 23. Currently, he has four tracks on the June 13-dated Billboard Hot 100: "Billie Jean" (No. 19), "Chicago" (No. 26), "Human Nature" (No. 31), and "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough" (No. 45). Notably, "Chicago," a track from Jackson's posthumous 2014 album "Xscape," has made him the first artist to debut new entries on the Hot 100 across every decade since the '70s. This resurgence highlights the timeless appeal of Jackson's music and the film's ability to engage a younger audience while rekindling the passion of longtime fans. The sheer volume of nostalgia paired with fresh interest has allowed Jackson's legacy to thrive in an ever-competitive music landscape. With "Michael" still captivating audiences in theaters, it's clear that the King of Pop continues to reign supreme. As we celebrate this cinematic tribute to his life and legacy, the exclusive behind-the-scenes photos from Billboard serve as a poignant reminder of the artistry, dedication, and love that went into telling his story. As the film continues to break barriers and introduce Michael Jackson’s music to a new generation, fans can expect his influence to remain pervasive — a true testament to his status as an immortal icon in the world of entertainment. For those eager to dive deeper into the world of "Michael," check out the exclusive gallery from Billboard and witness the making of a film that honors one of the most celebrated artists in history.

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#Michael Jackson#biopic#Lionsgate#Jaafar Jackson#Antoine Fuqua

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