Years after losing his beloved father, Prince Jackson found himself revisiting some of Michael Jackson’s most iconic moments in a deeply personal way. The experience came while working on the upcoming biopic, where Prince opened up about how powerful it was to see his father’s story come to life on screen.
In a rare interview with ABC News, he shared that watching his cousin, Jaafar Jackson, step into Michael Jackson’s role was one of the most emotional moments of the entire journey.
Jaafar’s Powerful Transformation Brought Back Memories For Michael Jackson’s Son Prince
“The first time that I saw him in person, in his hair and makeup, was really an emotional shock because I had not seen my father in a long time,” Prince said. “Jafaar just embodied him and brought him back in that moment.”
Prince admitted that the experience was difficult to process in the moment, recalling how he struggled to hold back his emotions.
He shared that he had to step away briefly to collect himself after seeing the transformation up close.
Despite the emotional weight, he described the experience as deeply meaningful, calling it “one of the greatest experiences of my life.”
A Story Meant for All Generations
GettyAs an executive producer on the film, Prince said the aim was to create a story that connects with audiences across generations.
“For those of us who were lucky enough to grow up with The Jackson 5 and the Jacksons, hopefully, it will [reinstate] that feeling of nostalgia and fun and family,” he said.
GettyHe also shared his hope that the film will help younger viewers better understand his father’s journey and legacy.
“I hope that it contextualizes the growth and the rise to stardom and the hard work and effort that my father put into [his career],” he added.
“Overall, just being a really fun, entertaining time for children of all ages.”
Family Reaction and Pride in Jaafar’s Powerful Performance
Prince shared that the response from his family has been filled with warmth and support, with many relatives spending time on set and standing behind the project throughout its journey.
“As a family, we’re very supportive, and we were every bit confident that Jafaar would perform, but I’m happy to say that I think Jafaar greatly exceeded our expectations,” he said.
“I’m blown away with what he has done here.” He added that the experience has brought him even closer to understanding his father’s journey and the legacy he continues to carry forward.
“I’m just blown away, I’m inspired, I’m very proud,” Prince said, as quoted by US Weekly.
The film, which stars Jaafar Jackson alongside Colman Domingo, Miles Teller, and Nia Long, is set to arrive in theaters this weekend, bringing Michael Jackson’s story to the big screen.
For Prince, the project is far more than a film. It stands as a deeply personal tribute to his father’s life, his brilliance, and the legacy he continues to inspire.
As audiences prepare to experience the story, Prince’s reflections offer a glimpse into the care and emotion that go into honoring one of music’s most iconic figures.
“Michael” opens in theaters nationwide on Friday, April 24. You can book your tickets for the movie here.
