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“I know you’ve been waiting a long time for this.” This is the opening line of the much-awaited first trailer for Michael, Lionsgate’s upcoming biopic about the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. “The tracks are made, the songs are ready. Let’s take it from the top. This is your story.” These lines from the trailer have ignited a whirlwind of emotions among fans who have long awaited the story of one of the most enigmatic, legendary and controversial entertainers in music history. Directed by Antonie Fuqua, Jackson is played by his real-life nephew Jaafar Jackson, who is the son of Michael’s brother Jermaine Jackson. Jaafar will be joined by a handful of stars for the upcoming film, including Miles Teller and Colman Domingo. Most recently, Lionsgate revealed the actors who will portray the rest of the Jackson 5 singers, including Jermaine, Marlon, Tito and Jackie Jackson. Let’s take a look at the cast of Michael and compare them with the real-life people they portray. Juilano Krue Valdi Plays Young Michael Jackson In January 2024, Lionsgate revealed that Juliano Krue Valdi would play the young Michael Jackson, depicting his early years and rise to fame alongside his brothers in the Jackson 5. As per a report by people, Antonie Fuqua said, “If anything, casting the role of the young Michael was more difficult than casting the adult role, because where do you find a child actor with the chops of the greatest entertainer who ever lived? We looked far and wide for an actor who could embody Michael’s spirit through his voice, his charisma and his dance skills. Juliano’s undeniable, raw talent put him at the top of our list.” Michel will mark Valdi’s debut in a feature film. Previously, he appeared in Bite Size Halloween and Face’s Music Party. Jaafar Jackson Plays Michael Jackson The pop icon’s nephew, Jaafar, essays him in the film. He was chosen for the role following an extensive worldwide casting search, after which producer Graham King said, “It was clear that he is the only person to take on this role.” King added, “he was blown away by the way he organically personifies the spirit and personality of Michael and was beyond thrilled that he has come on board to portray his uncle.” Although Michael will mark Jaafar’s acting debut, he is no stranger to the entertainment world. As reported by Deadline, Jaafar has been singing and dancing since the age of 12 and has appeared in several family-centred projects over the years, including The Jacksons: Next Generation (2015) and Tito’s 2021 music video Love One Another. Judah Edwards and Rhyan Hill PlayTito Jackson Judah Edwards, who previously featured in Hulu’s Saint X, will portray a young Tito in the film. The Michael Blackson Show actor Rhyan Hill will essay Tito in his later years. Jaylen Lyndon Hunter and Tre Horton Play Marlon Jackson Broadway performer Jaylen Lyndon Hunter will portray young Marlon, a role he previously played in the first national tour of MJ: The Musical. Tre Horton, known for his strong theatre background and his appearance in My Enemy Alpha, will take on the role of the older Marlon. Nathaniel Logan McIntyre and Joseph David-Jones Play Jackie Jackson David Makes Man star Nathaniel Logan McIntyre will portray a younger Jackie and The 4400 star Joseph David-Jones will play Jackie in his later years. Jayden Harville and Jamal R Henderson Play Jermaine Jackson Michael will also mark Jayden Harville’s film debut as he steps in as a younger version of Jermaine. The older Jermaine will be played by South Central Love actor Jamal R. Henderson. Colman Domingo Plays Joe Jackson Oscar-nominated Rustin star Colman Domingo is set to portray Jackson family patriarch Joe Jackson. Producer Graham King praised the actor, saying he “has such incredible range” and added that he’s “grateful to be working with him on this project.” Nia Long plays Katherine Jackson Nia Long essays the role of Katherine Jackson, who called her character “an incredible pillar of strength and grace for the entire Jackson family,” as per PEOPLE. She rose to popularity for her roles in Boyz n the Hood and The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and is well known for her other roles in Friday, The Best Man and Empire. Miles Teller Plays John Branca Miles Teller is set to portray John Branca, who took over as Michael Jackson’s manager after his father, Joe. Branca played a key role in launching Jackson’s solo career, particularly with the release of Thriller. He is also producing the biopic alongside John McClain, as both serve as co-executors of Jackson’s estate. Michael, the film about Michael Jackson’s life, hits theatres on April 24, 2026.
