Antoine Fuqua (Training Day, Equalizer) is currently working on honoring the late pop sensation Michael Jackson with an upcoming biopic. While only a little information is available about the film, and updates have been rare, we have news for you, direct from Fuqua! The director just cast MJ’s nephew Jafaar Jackson as the titular character for Michael.
The filmmaker took to Instagram to announce the casting with an image of Jafaar in costume, donning a famous Michael Jackson pose for the picture. Producer Graham King (Bohemian Rhapsody) added his own statement after the announcement, and you can read it below after checking out the director’s Instagram post:
[Quote] I met Jaafar over two years ago and was blown away by how he organically personifies Michael’s spirit and personality. It was something so powerful that even after conducting a worldwide search, it was clear that he is the only person to take on this role. I am beyond thrilled that he has come on board to portray his uncle and cannot wait for the world to see him on the big screen as Michael Jackson.
Not only Fuqua and King have commended Jermain Jackson’s son on his casting, but Michael Jackson’s mother is also happy with the choice. She stated that Jafaar “embodies” her son, and it’s “wonderful to see him carry on the Jackson legacy of entertainers and performers.”
Jafaar is the son of Jermaine Jackson, one of the original Jackson 5’s members and brother to the late King of Pop. His selection to play the renowned star comes at the heel of Lionsgate claiming Michael will include the singer’s “most iconic performances that led him to become the greatest entertainer of all time.”
Since Lionsgate is collaborating with the Jackson estate on the biopic, the motion picture will avoid touching upon the allegations the star faced in his late life and even after his death. But that will pose a challenge considering other films in the star’s honor have done so in the past.
John Logan (Skyfall, Spectre) will write the film, which has not yet secured a release date. We’ll keep you updated on any other riveting additions to the cast of Michael.
About Michael
Michael is an upcoming American biopic directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by John Logan, spanning the greatest moments of the King of Pop’s life.
Michael Jackson’s nephew, Jafaar Jackson, will play the titular character. Other details haven’t been made public.
The film hasn’t set a release date yet.
Source: Instagram
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