Michael Jackson Biopic Soundtrack Revealed: Every Song in the Movie

Every time Hollywood takes a swing at a music legend's life story, one big question always pops up: what songs are they actually going to use? With the Michael Jackson biopic rolling out in 2026, that question's even bigger—because, honestly, there are few catalogs more iconic than his. Anyway, Universal just dropped the full soundtrack list, so here's what to expect (spoiler: it covers the hits, the classics, and a couple that might surprise you).

The Key Players—On and Off Screen

First off, who's putting this whole thing together? Behind the camera, you've got Antoine Fuqua (yeah, the 'Training Day' guy) directing, and John Logan—the writer behind 'Skyfall' and 'The Aviator'—handling the screenplay. Jackson won't be played by some random lookalike, either. No, they've tapped Jaafar Jackson—yep, Michael's actual nephew—for the lead. That definitely sets a certain bar for both expectations and family pressure.

Rounding out the main cast: Nia Long, Laura Harrier, Juliano Krue Valdi, Miles Teller, and Colman Domingo. If you feel like that’s a wild mix, you’re not wrong.

So, What Songs Actually Made the Cut?

Now, here's what most people care about: the actual music. The soundtrack—officially called 'Michael: Songs from the Motion Picture'—dives straight into the deep end with 13 tracks. As you'd hope, it crams in the essentials, darting from the Jackson 5 days to all the moonwalking solo stuff.

• 'I’ll Be There' – Jackson 5
• 'Never Can Say Goodbye' – Jackson 5
• 'Who’s Lovin’ You' – Jackson 5
• Medley: 'I Want You Back / ABC / The Love You Save' – The Jacksons
• 'Ben' – The Jacksons
• 'Don’t Stop 'Til You Get Enough' – Michael Jackson
• 'Beat It' – Michael Jackson
• 'Thriller' – Michael Jackson
• 'Billie Jean' – Michael Jackson
• 'Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’' – Michael Jackson
• 'Human Nature' – Michael Jackson
• 'Workin’ Day and Night' – Michael Jackson
• 'Bad' – Michael Jackson

So if you were hoping for 'Dirty Diana' or 'Smooth Criminal,' you’ll have to go fire up your own playlist. Still, all the big milestones are here: from Motown kid prodigy to the electric pop juggernaut.

What Kind of Story Are They Telling?

If you’re wondering whether this is all glossy nostalgia, the movie apparently dives into the ups, downs, and everything in between. Jaafar Jackson as Michael tracks not just the eye-popping career highs, but also his struggles—the stuff you don’t always get in a jukebox musical. According to Universal, the soundtrack 'showcases the remarkable journey of his iconic career,' which sounds exactly like what you’d expect the press release to say, but at least they’re aiming for more than a greatest-hits karaoke session.

Dates, Details, and Where to Watch

Lock this in: the movie is set to hit theaters (including IMAX) on April 24, 2026, in the US, courtesy of Lionsgate. You’re getting plenty of lead time to revisit 'Thriller' and brush up on your lean for any possible late-night dance parties after the credits roll.

Bottom line: If you want a cinematic trip through Michael Jackson’s entire storied run—from California kid to King of Pop—you’re probably going to want to snag a ticket to this one. The soundtrack alone is half the draw. Sorry in advance if your personal favorite didn’t make the cut.