Additional Coverage:
- How the cast of the Michael Jackson movie ‘Michael’ compares to the real-life people they play (businessinsider.com)
The upcoming biopic “Michael,” centered on the life of pop legend Michael Jackson, features a diverse cast blending fresh talent with established actors. Notably, Michael’s nephew Jaafar Jackson, 29, takes on the iconic role of the King of Pop in his acting debut, transitioning from his previous career as a singer and dancer.
Jaafar portrays his uncle Michael Jackson, who rose to fame with The Jackson 5 before embarking on a groundbreaking solo career. Despite his immense success, Michael’s life was marred by allegations of child molestation, leading to a highly publicized trial in 2005 where he was acquitted. The controversy resurfaced with the 2019 documentary “Leaving Neverland,” though Michael’s estate has consistently denied the claims.
The film also introduces Juliano Krue Valdi, age 9, as a young Michael Jackson, marking his first acting role. Two-time Oscar nominee Colman Domingo portrays Michael’s father, Joe Jackson, the former R&B singer who managed The Jackson 5 and Michael’s early solo career. Joe was a controversial figure, accused by his children of abuse, which he denied before passing away in 2018.
Nia Long embodies Katherine Jackson, Michael’s mother and a longtime Jehovah’s Witness, who raised ten children with Joe. Miles Teller, known for “Top Gun: Maverick,” plays John Branca, Michael’s attorney and manager from 1980 who later became an executor of his estate.
The Jackson brothers are portrayed by a mix of actors: Joseph David-Jones as eldest brother Jackie, Nathaniel Logan McIntyre as young Jackie, Rhyan Hill and Judah Edwards as Tito and young Tito respectively, Jamal Henderson and Jayden Harville as Jermaine and young Jermaine, and Tre Horton and Jaylen Lyndon Hunter as older and younger Marlon Jackson. Each actor brings experience from various TV series and films, rounding out the family dynamic at the heart of the story.
Jessica Sula takes on the role of La Toya Jackson, Michael’s sister and the family’s only female member featured prominently in the film. La Toya pursued a solo music career, releasing multiple albums.
Adding to the star power, Mike Myers plays Walter Yetnikoff, the CBS Records president instrumental in promoting Michael’s solo career and the success of the “Thriller” album. Larenz Tate portrays Motown founder Berry Gordy, who signed The Jackson 5 and helped launch their fame with hits like “I Want You Back” and “ABC.”
Kendrick Sampson appears as Quincy Jones, the legendary producer behind Michael’s solo masterpieces including “Off the Wall,” “Thriller,” and “Bad.” The film also features comedian Deon Cole as renowned boxing promoter Don King, who partnered with Joe Jackson for the 1984 Victory Tour, where Michael famously debuted his moonwalk and signature white glove.
“Michael” aims to offer a comprehensive look at the life and legacy of one of music’s most influential figures, drawing on a talented cast to bring the story to life from childhood through superstardom.