Lionsgate and Universal's upcoming Michael Jackson biopic, "Michael," has undergone substantial and costly reshoots, reportedly to expunge child abuse allegations from its narrative. Sources close to the production indicate that around $15 million was spent to remove all references to accusations of child molestation against the pop star. The film, slated for a April 24th release, now concludes with Jackson at the zenith of his "Bad" tour fame, a stark departure from its initial script which, according to reports, explored Jackson's perspective on the accusations.
The estate of Michael Jackson, acting as a co-producer, appears to have been instrumental in this narrative shift. Attorneys for the estate, including John Branca, a producer on the film, and estate executive Karen Langford, were consulted on production decisions. Jackson's son, Prince Jackson, served as an executive producer and was reportedly a constant presence on set. The estate's involvement also stems from a legal stipulation within a settlement with Jordan Chandler, one of Jackson's accusers. This clause reportedly prohibits any dramatization or mention of Chandler in film portrayals, a fact that only became clear late in the production cycle, necessitating the extensive reshoots.
Read More: Michael Biopic Criticized for Ignoring Abuse Allegations
Chorus of Criticism Emerges
The decision to sanitize the biopic has ignited a firestorm of criticism from various quarters. Paris Jackson, Michael Jackson's daughter, has publicly voiced her displeasure, joining a chorus of outrage. She emphasized her lack of involvement in the film's production and accused co-executors of her father's estate of squandering funds. Her pop star sister, Janet Jackson, is also reported to be unhappy with the film after a screening for the family.
Beyond the immediate family, legal representatives for Jackson's accusers have labeled the film "propaganda." Similarly, Dan Reed, director of the 2019 HBO documentary "Leaving Neverland," which detailed abuse allegations from Wade Robson and James Safechuck, has condemned the biopic as "profoundly disingenuous" and accused it of "glorify[ing] a man who raped children." The estate's attorney, Jonathan Steinsapir, has dismissed Paris Jackson's complaints as "without merit" and part of a "media campaign."
Read More: Poe Dameron's Palpatine line added late, actor Oscar Isaac reveals
A Troubled Genesis
The production of "Michael" has been fraught with challenges beyond the narrative overhaul. Screenwriter Logan experienced a setback when their home was damaged in a wildfire, contributing to further delays. The film's original script reportedly featured scenes depicting Jackson confronting his reflection amidst flashing police lights, symbolizing his legal troubles, and another showing investigators searching Neverland Ranch – elements now conspicuously absent.
The film stars Jackson's nephew, Jaafar Jackson, in the titular role. The cast also includes Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, and Miles Teller as attorney John Branca. Despite the controversy surrounding its content, Lionsgate and Universal reportedly see potential for sequels, given the substantial amount of material available. The estate of Michael Jackson has consistently maintained its denial of all allegations of sexual abuse leveled against the singer.
Read More: Awarapan 2 to Release August 14, 2026, Emraan Hashmi Returns
