Michael Jackson movie overtakes huge hit to become the highest-grossing music biopic ever

Lionsgate and Universal’s *Michael*, starring Jaafar Jackson as the late Michael Jackson and directed by Antoine Fuqua, has become the highest-grossing music biopic of all time, surpassing *Bohemian Rhapsody*. The film earned $911.9 million globally, with its Japanese release contributing significantly to its record-breaking performance. Jaafar Jackson, the 29-year-old nephew of Michael Jackson, made his acting debut in the role after a two-year global casting search. The film’s producer, Graham King, previously helmed *Bohemian Rhapsody*, and he praised Jaafar for embodying Michael’s spirit, a sentiment echoed by Katherine Jackson, Michael’s mother. The biopic covers key moments in Jackson’s life, from his childhood in The Jackson 5 to his solo superstardom, including the creation of *Thriller* and his acquisition of Neverland Valley Ranch. Early reviews highlighted its focus on his artistic achievements and family dynamics, though producers initially aimed to address controversies more directly. The film’s production faced challenges, including $50 million in reshoots after the Jackson estate objected to a portrayal of an accuser. *Michael* has broken multiple box office records, including becoming Lionsgate’s highest-grossing theatrical release and the highest-grossing musical biopic domestically and internationally. It surpassed *Bohemian Rhapsody*’s earnings in 40 markets, including Brazil, France, and Mexico, where it became the highest-grossing music biopic. The film’s $358.6 million domestic haul and $553.3 million international earnings—with Universal generating $540.5 million from foreign rights—cemented its success. The film’s global appeal has also made it the second-highest-grossing biopic of 2026, behind *Oppenheimer*, and the second film to surpass $1 billion this year, following *The Super Mario Galaxy Movie*. Its theatrical run in Russia has already earned $10 million, adding to its international dominance. Producers Graham King and Antoine Fuqua have positioned *Michael* as a defining cultural and commercial milestone in biopic cinema.