Michael Jackson's Biopic Breaks Records: A Billion-Dollar Triumph!

The biopic 'Michael,' featuring Jaafar Jackson, has shattered records by surpassing $1 billion at the global box office, making it the highest-grossing biopic ever. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film has captivated audiences and outperformed previous hits like 'Bohemian Rhapsody' and 'Oppenheimer.' Despite mixed critical reviews, it boasts a remarkable audience score of 97% on Rotten Tomatoes. This achievement marks a significant milestone for Lionsgate and the Jackson estate, showcasing the enduring legacy of the King of Pop. Explore how this film has maintained its momentum and captivated viewers worldwide.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 12, 2026, 20:05 IST

Michael Jackson's Legacy Lives On

Even after more than 17 years since his death, Michael Jackson remains a significant figure in the entertainment world. The biographical film "Michael," helmed by Antoine Fuqua and featuring Jaafar Jackson, the late star's nephew, in his debut role, has officially crossed the $1 billion mark at the worldwide box office. This milestone has made "Michael" the highest-grossing biopic ever, highlighting the lasting impact of the King of Pop and his ability to engage audiences of all ages.

Prior to achieving this remarkable feat, "Michael" had already broken several important records. It first surpassed the 2018 biopic "Bohemian Rhapsody," which concluded its run with $911 million globally. Soon after, it overtook Christopher Nolan's "Oppenheimer," which previously held the record for the highest-grossing biopic with a total of $977 million. This success has positioned Lionsgate as a formidable player in the film industry, especially since many major studios initially opted out of supporting the project. Their decision to invest in "Michael," alongside Universal Pictures and Kino Films, has proven to be a profitable venture.

As reported by The New York Times, "Michael" has made history as the first billion-dollar film produced and released by an independent studio. This achievement not only benefits the Jackson estate but also signifies a major win for Lionsgate, confirming that their investment was a smart move. Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, the film has struck a chord with audiences, as evidenced by its impressive audience score of 97% on Rotten Tomatoes, in stark contrast to a modest 40% critics' score.

A key element of the film's success is Jaafar Jackson's portrayal of his legendary uncle, which has resonated deeply with viewers. The film debuted with an astonishing $217 million globally during its opening weekend, setting a record for the largest opening for a musical biopic. Instead of seeing a drop in viewership, "Michael" maintained its strong performance through positive word-of-mouth, ultimately surpassing the $1 billion mark after nearly three months in theaters.