Michael Jackson biopic trailer shatters records with 116 million views in 24 hours

Michael Jackson fans have shown up in the millions online to support the late King of Pop. 

Lionsgate recently released the trailer of Jackson's biopic, "Michael", and within the first 24 hours, it had shattered records, amassing over 116.2 million views worldwide, according to WaveMetrix. This accomplishment also marks Lionsgate's largest trailer debut to date.

The film stars Jackson's nephew, Jaafar Jackson, who takes on the iconic role.

The teaser showcases Jaafar Jackson performing some of Jackson's legendary dance moves, including the famous moonwalk. It also offers a sneak peek into the unforgettable "Thriller" music video.

"The film tells the story of Michael Jackson’s life beyond the music, tracing his journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of the Jackson Five to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world," read the official synopsis.

It continued: "Highlighting both his life off-stage and some of the most iconic performances from his early solo career, the film gives audiences a front-row seat to Michael Jackson as never before. This is where his story begins."

Directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by John Logan, "Michael" carries a hefty budget of approximately £155 million (over R351bn).

The cast also features notable talent, including Colman Domingo, who plays Joe Jackson, Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, Kat Graham as Diana Ross and Miles Teller as John Branca, Jackson’s attorney and advisor.

Additionally, Jessica Sula takes on the role of La Toya Jackson, with Kendrick Sampson appearing as Quincy Jones, who played a pivotal role in Jackson's early musical career. 

The film was initially scheduled for release on October 3; however, it was postponed. 

Although principal photography wrapped up in May 2024, additional reshoots and script rewrites have contributed to the delay.

"Michael" will now be released in cinemas on April 24, 2026.

Adam Fogelson, chair of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, hinted that while a sequel is not confirmed yet, the creative team is working to bring “more Michael soon” after the first film's release.

"While we're not yet ready to confirm plans for a second film, I can tell you that the creative team is hard at work making sure that we're in a position to deliver more Michael soon after we release the first film," said Fogelson in an online report.  

After the trailer's record-breaking success, Fogelson celebrated, saying, "People have been waiting a long time for this. And we have seen wild enthusiasm. I think people are stunned with Jaafar’s performance, even in the short amount that is in this relatively brief teaser."

Reacting to the trailer, fans praised the music legend.

@hunleyCFC said: "Michael at his peak during the 80s was just a phenomenon. Pure magic and talent. His dancing makes you 'see' the music. It's hard to describe. It's beyond cool. It's just natural. God sent."

@mahazona_ commented: "Without social media or Apple Music or Spotify, he conquered the world with his music is crazy."

@Jimmy_Moon: "Isn't it strange how those songs are hardwired into our consciousness. It's like someone wrote some code so we don't forget and when the beats start, something awakens it."

Watch the trailer below.