Michael Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson is opening up about what it took to step into his legendary uncle’s shoes for the upcoming biopic “Michael,” and he’s making one thing clear: this wasn’t handed to him.
In a newly released behind-the-scenes look at the film, Jaafar, 29, reflected on the pressure and responsibility that came with portraying one of the most influential entertainers of all time. Despite being born into the Jackson family, he said acting was never part of his plan. Still, when the opportunity to portray his uncle arose, Jaafar said it felt like something much deeper than a typical role.
“I never dreamed to be an actor or even thought of playing him,” Jaafar shared in the featurette. “But I knew it was a calling.”
Earning the Role, Not Inheriting It
Jaafar, the son of Jermaine Jackson, explained that embodying Michael meant starting from the ground up and proving himself to the filmmakers. He said he had to earn their trust and show that he could authentically become Michael, not just look like him or share his last name.
Producer Graham King acknowledged how daunting the casting process was, saying the search for someone who could play Michael Jackson felt nearly impossible at first. That changed when he met Jaafar. Director Antoine Fuqua admitted he was skeptical on day one, unsure whether Jaafar could truly pull it off.
That doubt quickly disappeared once rehearsals began. Fuqua recalled that the moment the music started and Jaafar hit Michael’s signature moves, everything clicked. He said Jaafar didn’t just perform the choreography, he embodied the drive and discipline that defined Michael’s career, per People.
For Jaafar, the experience on set was deeply emotional. He said he felt love for Michael every single day from the cast and crew, noting that everyone shared the same goal of honoring his uncle’s legacy with care and intention.
Inside the Film and What to Expect
The Lionsgate biopic features an ensemble cast that includes Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Laura Harrier as music executive Suzanne de Passe, Juliano Valdi as a young Michael, and Miles Teller as attorney John Branca. The film is produced by King alongside Michael Jackson estate co-executors John Branca and John McClain.
According to Lionsgate, “Michael” is a cinematic portrayal of the singer’s life beyond the music, tracing his journey from the breakout star of the Jackson Five to a visionary solo artist driven by creative ambition and a relentless pursuit of greatness. The story focuses on Michael’s rise and artistic legacy, though it remains unclear how much the film will address the controversies later in his life.
Earlier this month, Lionsgate also released the film’s full trailer, offering the most detailed look yet at Jaafar’s transformation. The footage showcases him singing, dancing and recreating some of Michael’s most iconic performances, underscored by familiar hits that defined generations.
Michael Jackson passed away in 2009 at age 50 and is survived by his three children, Prince, Paris and Bigi. For Jaafar, stepping into this role was never about fame or ambition, but about honoring someone he loved.
“Embodying Michael, I really had to earn the role and find the authenticity,” he said.
The biopic “Michael” is set to hit theaters on April 24, 2026.
