The Full Cast Of Michael: Everything To Know About The Michael Jackson Biopic, From Jaafar Jackson To Miles Teller

The highly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic, titled *Michael*, has captivated fans and the entertainment industry with its bold casting choices, confirming that the King of Pop’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson, will be stepping into his uncle's iconic shoes. As of December 2025, the film is deep into post-production, with a massive ensemble cast that promises a comprehensive look at the singer’s life, from his Jackson 5 beginnings to his global superstar status. The project, directed by Antoine Fuqua and produced by Graham King (of *Bohemian Rhapsody* fame), is setting the stage for one of the most talked-about cinematic events of 2026, featuring a mix of established A-listers and talented newcomers. The latest updates confirm a release date in 2026, following a recent trailer release and reports of additional photography, signaling the immense scale and detail being poured into this monumental project. The creative team has meticulously assembled a cast to portray not only the Jackson family but also the key figures, managers, and music executives who shaped Michael’s extraordinary and controversial career. This deep dive reveals every major actor confirmed for the *Michael* biopic and the significant roles they will play in telling this complex story.

The New King of Pop: Jaafar Jackson's Profile and The Main Cast

The central and most scrutinized casting decision is the choice of Jaafar Jackson to portray his uncle, Michael Jackson. This marks Jaafar's feature film debut, a role for which he was reportedly selected after an extensive worldwide search.

Jaafar Jackson: A Detailed Profile

• Full Name: Jaafar Jeremiah Jackson
• Role in *Michael*: Michael Jackson (Adult)
• Date of Birth: July 25, 1996
• Family Connection: Son of Jermaine Jackson, one of Michael's older brothers and a member of The Jackson 5.
• Background: Jaafar is an American singer, dancer, and actor who has been performing since the age of 12, showcasing his talents by covering artists like Sam Cooke.
• Music Career: He launched his music career in earnest with the release of his debut single, "Got Me Singing."
• Preparation: Jaafar’s background in music and dance, combined with his striking physical resemblance and familial connection, makes his casting a deeply personal and compelling choice for the biopic.

The Jackson 5 and Young Michael

To cover the full breadth of the King of Pop's life, the film features two actors playing Michael, alongside a full ensemble portraying the legendary Jackson 5.

• Juliano Krue Valdi as Young Michael Jackson: Valdi will portray Michael during his formative years as the magnetic lead singer of The Jackson 5.
• Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson: The Oscar-nominated and Tony-winning actor takes on the demanding role of Joe Jackson, Michael's father and the patriarch of the Jackson family, known for his controversial management style.
• Nia Long as Katherine Jackson: Known for her roles in *Boyz n the Hood* and *The Best Man*, Nia Long will portray Katherine Jackson, Michael’s devoted mother.

The Jackson Family and Motown Moguls: Supporting Cast Deep Dive

The film is not just about Michael; it is a sprawling family saga and a look at the machinery of the music industry. The film has cast both younger and older versions of Michael's brothers, providing a clear timeline of the group's evolution.

The Jackson Brothers: Then and Now

The casting for The Jackson 5 is a detailed list of emerging talent, ensuring the group's iconic energy is captured on screen.

• Jackie Jackson: Nathaniel Logan McIntyre (Younger) and Joseph David-Jones (Older).
• Tito Jackson: Judah Edwards (Younger) and Rhyan Hill (Older).
• Jermaine Jackson: Jayden Harville (Younger) and Jamal R. Henderson (Older).
• Marlon Jackson: Jaylen Lyndon Hunter (Younger) and Tre Horton (Older).

Key Industry Figures and Influencers

Beyond the immediate family, the biopic features actors playing pivotal figures who influenced Michael’s career, from his early Motown days to his legal and financial peak.

• Miles Teller as John Branca: The *Whiplash* and *Top Gun: Maverick* star takes on the role of John Branca, Michael Jackson's longtime attorney and manager. Branca played a crucial role in Michael's financial affairs, including the acquisition of The Beatles' music catalog and managing his estate.
• Laura Harrier as Suzanne de Passe: Known for her roles in *BlacKkKlansman* and *Spider-Man: Homecoming*, Harrier portrays Suzanne de Passe, a pioneering music executive who was instrumental at Motown and worked closely with The Jackson 5.
• Kat Graham as Diana Ross: The actress and singer (known for *The Vampire Diaries*) is set to play the legendary Diana Ross, a close confidante and mentor to Michael, particularly during the early days of The Jackson 5.

This expansive list of confirmed actors, including the entire Jackson family and key industry players, demonstrates the film’s commitment to providing a rich, detailed narrative of Michael's life and the forces around him.

Production Challenges, Release Date, and The Film’s Focus

The production of *Michael* has been a high-budget, high-profile endeavor, facing the natural complexities that come with telling the story of one of the 20th century's most scrutinized figures. The film aims to cover the entirety of Michael Jackson's life, from his ascent with The Jackson 5 to his solo superstardom, and the controversies that defined his later years.

The Road to the 2026 Release

While initial reports suggested a 2025 release, the project's scale and the need for meticulous detail led to a delay. The film officially wrapped principal photography in May 2024, but has since undergone significant post-production work, including a period of additional photography. The official release date for *Michael* is currently set for April 24, 2026. Lionsgate, the studio behind the film, offered a first look to industry insiders and released a teaser trailer in November 2025, which showcased Jaafar Jackson's transformative performance in the recording studio and on stage.

The Creative Team and Narrative Intent

The film is helmed by director Antoine Fuqua, known for intense, character-driven dramas like *Training Day* and *Emancipation*. The screenplay is written by Oscar nominee John Logan, whose credits include *Gladiator* and *The Aviator*. This combination of talent suggests a serious, dramatic approach to Michael’s story. Producer Graham King, who successfully navigated the complexities of *Bohemian Rhapsody*, is leading the effort to deliver a definitive cinematic portrait. The film is expected to explore the creative genius, the personal struggles, and the global impact of Michael Jackson, giving audiences an intimate look at the man behind the music. The inclusion of Miles Teller as John Branca, for example, suggests a focus on the business and legal aspects of Michael's life, which were central to his power and later disputes. With a cast this deep and a creative team this accomplished, *Michael* is positioned to be a landmark biopic that will spark discussion and analysis for years to come.