Bohemian Rhapsody Producer Sees the Same Spark in 2026 Michael Jackson Biopic

written by Craig Ellison

April 19, 2026 11:49 am

Bohemian Rhapsody Producer Sees the Same Spark in 2026 Michael Jackson Biopic — Image credit: Legion-Media

Producer Graham King draws a straight line between Bohemian Rhapsody and Michael, saying the two music biopics share striking similarities.

Pop star biopics have been everywhere lately, like some unofficial cinematic genre nobody asked for but studios just can’t help themselves with. First we had 'Bohemian Rhapsody' and 'Rocketman'; then along came Baz Luhrmann’s 'Elvis'. All of those movies racked up big box office and plenty of awards buzz. Next up: 'Michael', the inevitably-titled Michael Jackson film, which is shaping up to be another major entry in this 'turn your favorite Spotify playlist into a movie' trend.

If you’re playing biopic bingo, yes, there are already loads of story overlaps between these music legends. Of course each film spotlights its own particular brand of personal chaos, but let’s face it, the structure for these movies writes itself: tough childhood, rise to fame, iconic tunes, some legendary quirks, a tragic ending, emotional audience, rinse, repeat.

Why Is Everyone Making These?

The answer's simple: nostalgia and the lure of Oscar season. According to producer Graham King (who, yes, produced both 'Bohemian Rhapsody' and this new Michael Jackson flick), there’s something about bringing fans together in a theater to hear the hits, feel the highs and lows, and watch an extremely skilled actor become an even more famous musician. King’s hoping he can capture that lightning in a bottle all over again for 'Michael'—and he isn’t shy about aiming to hit the same emotional notes as the Queen movie.

'I think there’s a lot of similarities in Freddie and Michael to where they both bring people together through their music. And I thought, you know, the success of Bohemian Rhapsody was bringing people together back to the movies. People were coming for the nostalgia ride. They were coming to hear the music. They were coming to see the performance ... If we can capture that with Michael, I think the world needs to see this side of Michael.'

King also dropped a pretty random detail that’s pure movie-geek gold: he insisted 'Michael' needs that banana-pants scene where Bubbles the chimp enters the picture. Apparently, nothing says 'quintessential Michael' like having a pet primate meet the family, then watching Joe Jackson try not to combust on the spot. So, if you want to see the King of Pop’s offbeat side, you’re probably in for a treat.

What’s Actually New This Time?

The director’s Antoine Fuqua (known for action, not musicals, so this could get interesting).
Script comes from John Logan, who wrote everything from 'Skyfall' to 'Gladiator'. No pressure.
The real wild card: Michael Jackson is being played by Jaafar Jackson, his actual nephew, making his movie debut. That’s either genius casting or one of those choices that only makes sense in a Hollywood boardroom.
The film sweeps from Michael’s kid years in the Jackson 5, runs through his massive solo career in the '70s and '80s, and—by all early accounts—leans hard into the drama and spectacle without turning into a tabloid checklist.

Does It Work?

Early reviews (yes, a few have leaked already) seem pretty positive, especially when it comes to Jaafar Jackson channeling his famous uncle’s stage presence. But, as always, the real comparison will be whether it has the impact—the chills, the feels—of 'Bohemian Rhapsody' or will end up standing in its shadow. Given the core team (and the source material, let’s be honest), there’s a good shot this one breaks out.

Oh, and in case you want to plan your sequined glove outfit early: 'Michael' is scheduled to hit theaters April 24, 2026. That gives you more than enough time to brush up on the moonwalk—and reconsider whether you actually need another jukebox biopic in your life. But let’s be honest: it’ll probably be a hit.