Michael Jackson Movie Release Date Delayed, Possible Length Revealed

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Michael Jackson Movie Release Date Delayed, Possible Length Revealed

Lionsgate has finally shared a new update about the Michael Jackson movie release date, after the highly anticipated biopic was excluded from the studio’s presentation at the recent CinemaCon. The project has actually been in development since 2019, with Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson officially tapped to play the King of Pop.

What is the new release date window for the Michael Jackson movie?

The Michael Jackson movie was originally slated for an October 3, 2025, theatrical release date. However, Lionsgate has seemingly decided to delay the biographical drama by pushing back its release to 2026. In addition, studio executive Jon Feltheimer has also seemingly confirmed that the film will possibly have a total runtime of 3 hours and 30 minutes. No word yet if it will be split into two parts like previously rumored.

“In regard to our Michael Jackson biopic, we’re excited about the three and a half hours of amazing footage from producer Graham King and director Antoine Fuqua, and we will be announcing a definitive release strategy & timing in the next few weeks,” Feltheimer said through Lionsgate’s latest earnings call. “I would note that it is likely we will move Michael out of the fiscal year, which will impact fiscal ’26 financial results but will bolster an already strong fiscal ’27 slate.”

Michael is directed by Antoine Fuqua from a screenplay written by three-time Oscar nominee John Logan. The cast includes Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson, Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, Miles Teller as John Branca, and more. It is produced by Graham King, along with co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate, John Branca and John McClain.

“Michael will bring audiences a riveting and honest portrayal of the brilliant yet complicated man who became known worldwide as the King of Pop,” reads the synopsis. “This epic, cinematic film will examine Jackson’s triumphs and tragedies — from his human side, to his public and private struggles, to the accusations and the 24/7 media microscope Jackson lived under, even at his artistic apex. The all-star filmmaking team will also capture Michael’s undeniable creative genius, recreating his most memorable, iconic performances. As never before, audiences will experience an inside look at one of the most influential, trailblazing artists the world has ever known.”