Additional Coverage:
- Who is Jaafar Jackson? Everything to know about Michael Jackson’s nephew (businessinsider.com)
Jaafar Jackson Steps Into the Spotlight as Michael Jackson in New Biopic
Jaafar Jackson, nephew of the legendary King of Pop, Michael Jackson, is making headlines as he takes on the iconic role of his late uncle in the new biographical film “Michael.” At 29 years old and hailing from Los Angeles, Jaafar is the son of Jermaine Jackson-one of the original members of the Jackson 5-and Alejandra Genevieve Oaziaza.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua, known for hits like “Training Day” and “The Equalizer,” and penned by acclaimed writer John Logan, the film chronicles Michael Jackson’s journey from his early days with the Jackson 5 through his groundbreaking “Bad” era. The project has the endorsement of the Jackson estate, but Jaafar’s casting was not simply a matter of family ties.
Producer Graham King, who also produced “Bohemian Rhapsody,” recounted his experience casting Jaafar, saying the connection was almost spiritual. After auditioning nearly 200 actors worldwide, King felt Jaafar uniquely captured the essence of Michael, not just in appearance but in spirit and energy.
Jaafar’s background is rooted deeply in the Jackson family legacy. His father, Jermaine, was a key figure in the Jackson 5 before embarking on a solo career.
His mother, Alejandra, originally from Colombia, is a fashion designer who previously dated Jermaine’s brother Randy and had two children with him prior to marrying Jermaine. Jaafar was born in 1996, followed by his younger brother Jermajesty.
Despite his lack of formal dance or acting training, Jaafar committed three years to prepare for the role, including two years of auditioning and training under Michael’s former choreographers, Rich and Tone Talauega. The choreographers praised Jaafar’s natural talent, crediting his Jackson bloodline for the innate skill that he refined through hard work.
Though Jaafar has a musical background-having played piano since age 12 and released his own single in 2019-he does not sing in the film. Instead, the soundtrack features remastered versions of Michael’s original recordings, allowing Jaafar to focus on embodying the dance and performance style of his uncle.
Jaafar described the challenge of the role as balancing precise choreography with the energy and showmanship Michael was known for, highlighting the legendary “Billie Jean” Motown 25 performance as the most difficult to replicate.
The film has garnered support from many members of the Jackson family, including Michael’s mother Katherine, who praised Jaafar for carrying on the family’s artistic legacy. Executive producers include Michael’s eldest son Prince Jackson, as well as brothers Jermaine, Jackie, and Marlon, all of whom attended the Los Angeles premiere alongside sister LaToya Jackson.
Notably absent were Michael’s siblings Rebbie, Janet, and Randy, who are not depicted in the film. Janet Jackson reportedly declined to participate, a decision respected by the family.
Michael’s daughter, Paris Jackson, has publicly criticized the biopic, calling it “sugar-coated” and stating she had no involvement in its production. She expressed concerns that the film caters to a nostalgic fanbase rather than portraying a fully honest narrative. Paris and her brother Bigi did not attend the Los Angeles premiere, although Bigi appeared at the Berlin premiere earlier.
Paris is currently engaged in a legal dispute with the Jackson estate over financial matters related to the film, with the estate responding that she lacks a full understanding of the industry and production roles.
As Jaafar Jackson steps into the role of one of music’s greatest icons, the film “Michael” invites audiences to revisit the remarkable life and legacy of the King of Pop through the eyes of his own family.
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- Who is Jaafar Jackson? Everything to know about Michael Jackson’s nephew (businessinsider.com)