The highly anticipated trailer for the Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, has broken records by becoming the most-watched music biopic trailer of all time. According to data from WaveMetrix, the teaser released by Lionsgate garnered an astonishing 116.2 million views in the first 24 hours alone, making it the studio’s largest trailer debut ever. Moreover, the trailer features Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson’s nephew, who undergoes a stunning transformation as he flawlessly replicates the King of Pop’s iconic dance moves, including the legendary moonwalk and a memorable scene from the “Thriller” music video.
Furthermore, the biopic delivers a powerful look at Michael’s remarkable journey—from his early days as the lead singer of the Jackson Five to his rise as a visionary artist and global superstar. Directed by Antoine Fuqua and produced by Graham King, with a screenplay from three-time Oscar nominee John Logan, the film also boasts a star-studded cast including Miles Teller, Colman Domingo, Nia Long, and Laura Harrier.
Beyond just the music, Michael promises to explore the King of Pop’s life offstage, focusing on his creative drive and groundbreaking performances. The film is set for theatrical release on April 24, 2026. Notably, this record-breaking trailer performance surpasses that of other major music documentaries like Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour and Bohemian Rhapsody, underscoring the massive global excitement surrounding this cinematic tribute.
In summary, not only did Michael achieve unprecedented trailer views, but it also highlighted the significant anticipation for a comprehensive story about Michael Jackson’s legacy and influence that transcends his music career. This milestone marks a new benchmark in music biopic marketing and sets high expectations for the film’s release next year.
