In a stunning announcement fit for the King of Pop himself, Lionsgate has revealed that 26-year-old Jaafar Jackson, Jermaine’s son, will be stepping into the iconic role of his uncle, Michael Jackson, in the highly-anticipated biopic directed by Antoine Fuqua. The young performer, handpicked by producer Graham King and the co-executors of the Jackson estate, John Branca and John McClain, has wowed industry insiders with his seamless embodiment of the late pop star.
Jaafar organically personifies the spirit and personality of Michael,” gushed King, who conducted a worldwide search before ultimately selecting Jackson for the lead role. “It was clear that he is the only person to take on this role.”
Katherine Jackson, Michael’s beloved mother, echoed this sentiment, noting that Jaafar “embodies my son” and is carrying on the Jackson legacy in the entertainment world. Fuqua, who previously worked with King and Logan on The Aviator, couldn’t agree more, saying that the young performer has a “natural ability to emulate Michael and such a great chemistry with the camera.”
With principal photography set to commence later this year, and a screenplay by the John Logan, Michael promises to be a cinematic experience like no other. The world eagerly awaits the chance to see Jaafar Jackson bring the King of Pop back to life on the big screen.
Are you excited to this biopic? Until then check out music video, Got Me Singing.