Michael Jackson Biopic 'Michael' Surpasses Oppenheimer to Become the Highest-Grossing Biopic of All Time — And $1 Billion Is Within Reach

The Michael Jackson Biopic 'Michael' Just Became the Highest-Grossing Biopic of All Time — And $1 Billion Is Almost Here

Lionsgate's "Michael" has done what few biopics ever dare to dream. Antoine Fuqua's sprawling Michael Jackson biographical drama has officially dethroned Christopher Nolan's "Oppenheimer" ($953 million) to become the highest-grossing biopic in cinema history, with a staggering $977 million at the worldwide box office. The $1 billion milestone isn't a question of "if" — it's "when."

Jaafar Jackson Carries the Glove

The film's secret weapon? Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson's own nephew, in the lead role. Despite the movie receiving generally mixed-to-negative reviews from critics — who praised Jaafar's uncanny performance but slammed the story as "sanitized" — audiences have voted overwhelmingly with their wallets. Directed by Antoine Fuqua (known for Training Day and The Equalizer franchise) and produced by Lionsgate, "Michael" premiered at the Uber Eats Music Hall in Berlin on April 10, 2026, before hitting US theaters on April 24.

Nia Long delivers a strong supporting turn, but this is Jaafar's show. He doesn't just impersonate Michael Jackson — he channels him. The physical resemblance, the movement, the voice — it's eerily authentic, and that's exactly what's driving repeat viewings and passionate word-of-mouth.

Why This Matters for Hollywood

"Michael" proving that a music biopic can cross $1 billion sends a massive signal to studios. We're already seeing a wave of similar projects greenlit:

• Bob Marley: One Love (2024) showed there's an audience for music legends on screen
• "Bohemian Rhapsody" ($910M) previously held the biopic crown before "Oppenheimer" surpassed it
• Lionsgate is now reportedly exploring sequels or companion projects around the Jackson estate

The film is now available for streaming after its theatrical run, making it accessible to anyone who missed the big-screen experience. Whether you're a lifelong MJ fan or just curious about what all the hype is about, "Michael" is the kind of cultural event movie that demands to be seen — even if critics wished it had more edge.

The Bottom Line

Love it or critique it, "Michael" has rewritten the playbook for biographical films. At $977 million and counting, it's proof that Jaafar Jackson was born for this role, Antoine Fuqua knows how to deliver spectacle, and audiences will always show up for the King of Pop. The $1 billion club is about to get its newest member — and it's wearing a single sequined glove.