0:00
14:16
14:16

Michael (2026): 10 Behind-the-Scenes Controversies, Explained

Entertainment

The highly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic is already stirring up debate behind the scenes. From casting choices and family reactions to legal battles and creative control by the estate, numerous controversies threaten to overshadow the film’s release. Dive into the drama surrounding the production, including accusations of nepotism with Jaafar Jackson’s casting, the involvement of “Bohemian Rhapsody” producer Graham King, and limited press coverage before the premiere. Explore Janet Jackson’s harsh critique, ongoing lawsuits connected to Jackson’s legacy, and the costly reshoots prompted by legal restrictions. Plus, hear from “Leaving Neverland” director Dan Reed, who condemns the film’s portrayal of Jackson. Will the biopic do justice or whitewash the story? WATCH our 24/7 Livestream to binge the best of MsMojo! https://youtube.com/live/9gtxyOwIBxs FOLLOW all of our socials for more lists, videos, and articles! https://linkin.bio/msmojo/ MsMojo is a leading producer of queen-sized lists and thought-provoking essays on Film, TV, Celebrity, Music, & more. Your trusted authority for ranking and analyzing Pop Culture. #MichaelJackson #Biopic #Controversy #Nepotism #JacksonEstate #LeavingNeverland #Reshoots #Hollywood #Lawsuits #JanetJackson #ParisJackson #FilmDrama

ADVERTISEMENT

Comments 100

Sign in to join the conversation

Sign in
C
cynthia.costa 1 month, 1 week ago

Jaafar is a genius. Nepotism is ridiculous.🙄 we just saw it and our whole family loved it and we can’t wait to see it again.

michael.campbell
michael.campbell 1 month, 1 week ago

Nepotism is required if the DNA has something to speak.

H
hans-hinrichhendriks264 1 month, 1 week ago

I loved this movie and went into it knowing it was going to be stylized by Hollywood, but you know what else happened? I rediscovered how f-ing cool Michael Jackson was! I saw this movie looking to be entertained and this movie owes me nothing. Does it rise to the level of Best Picture? Probably not, but if you’re looking for a movie that’s going to make you leave the theater happy, especially during these times, this movie definitely delivers.

C
christy_cooper 1 month, 1 week ago

Michael just BROKE the all-time domestic box office record for a biopic. It’s on track to break the world box office record for a biopic. The movie was exceptional and Jafar IS Michael in this film. Your video is RIDICULOUS.

gabinoirizarry390
gabinoirizarry390 1 month, 2 weeks ago

THE MOVIE IS AMAZING !!!

B
beth_burton 1 month, 2 weeks ago

Paris? 😂

M
matthewjimenez802 1 month, 2 weeks ago

Jaafar was AWESOME! Ppl audibly gasped when he started talking He worked for 2yrs, training to sound, and move just like MJ

M
matthewpalmer720 1 month, 2 weeks ago

The casting was perfect. It’s Jafaars uncle. They did right by having a Jackson play him. There was countless times during the movie where I had to remind myself I wasn’t actually watching Michael. Stunning movie. Can’t wait to see it again.

paulvaleon6
paulvaleon6 1 month, 2 weeks ago

At the end of the day, Old Joe could only take them so far, of course the rest are talented but it was Michael’s extra extraordinary talent that continued everything for everyone , & he carried a huge load at times. They all have what they have because of the one with the extra extraordinary talent . Jmo

C
courtneyatlas82 1 month, 2 weeks ago

Jafar is the only one that could have done this role the way he did! I can’t see anyone else at this point. ❤❤❤. Nepo baby my ass! He did that! 🎤💕💙

S
silvia_garcía 1 month, 2 weeks ago

Jafar did a great job

ekani_goswami
ekani_goswami 1 month, 2 weeks ago

At 11:18 adam sandler wrote the article?? Hahaha

N
nadiaaether4 1 month, 2 weeks ago

Janet Jackson is just mad that she will never be on the same level of SUCCESS as her brother Michael. Enough said.

S
sergioserna599 1 month, 2 weeks ago

Fun fact: Michael was filmed in 129 days, but because they had to change the ending to a Bad concert. And it took them 22 days to do that. Michael was filmed in 151 days. Amen.

J
jeremy.mcintyre 1 month, 2 weeks ago

13:00 no it’s not because of his songs and fame that we think Michael can’t do any wrong. I’ll speak on behalf of the fans. We think he ant dominating if he hasn’t. People aren’t stoopid we can read vibes. If Michael did wrong we the fans will have our judgements too. Don’t worry about that. But with the allegations against him it’s obvious that his innocent otherwise through years of investigation they would’ve dropped evidence not planted and fabricated evidence that later proved to false by the “victims” themselves. His fans are not stoopid. So aren’t you. But just not reading the room right to say that

ashleyjames985
ashleyjames985 1 month, 2 weeks ago

The movie was FANTASTIC!! When you come down to it, everyone gives their 2 cents. Haters give their 2 cents, critics give their 2 cents and fans give their 2 cents. In the end, everyone has contributed. I'm going to believe what I saw growing up in the Michael Jackson ERA. I grew up with him - from afar, but the same years. He was a pure hearted person that tried to be the best he could be. He gave generously and still people tried to take more. He was and will be the ONLY King of POP and the greatest creator on the planet. I'll never believe that he tried or did hurt anyone EVER!!!! JAAFAR WAS THE ULTIMATE CHOICE FOR THIS MOVIE!!!!!!!!!!!!! Can't wait for the next part. 🎼🎵🎶👢🐒🦒💖

M
martinemarion431 1 month, 2 weeks ago

As long as it is someone related to michael that is all that matters and as long as it is a good movie. Michael Jackson is literally Jaafar Jacksons uncle❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

B
benitosolorzano76 1 month, 2 weeks ago

Why don't the Jacksons take the estate from the 2 Lawyers - sounds like they've been paying themselves too well

C
christina.lewis 1 month, 3 weeks ago

No. Alot of BS😅

anel.valdez
anel.valdez 1 month, 3 weeks ago

I saw it I wanna see it again and I definitely want to see the sequel when it comes out