Jaafar Jackson thanks supporters as the ‘Michael’ biopic soars to an impressive $95M-$100M debut in the U.S., reaching $200M worldwide

The Michael Jackson biopic “Michael” is opening far above expectations, with projections indicating a $94M–$100M domestic debut and $200M globally, representing a significant victory for Lionsgate.

Michael biopic is overperforming, projected to achieve a massive $94M–$100M domestic debut and a $200M+ global opening weekend.

Michael is exceeding expectations, projected to achieve a $94M–$100M domestic opening and surpass $200M globally, defying negative reviews to become a significant success for Lionsgate. The film earned an estimated $38.5M–$40M on its first Friday, fueled by diverse and enthusiastic audiences.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the film's $40M domestic opening on Friday surpasses Oppenheimer as the biggest opening day for a biopic. International markets are performing well, with both France ($2.6M) and the U.K./Ireland ($2.6M) achieving their largest opening days for a musical biopic. This represents a major success for Lionsgate following a substantial, though costly, marketing effort.

According to reports, “Michael” is opening far above expectations, tracking for a $94M–$100M domestic debut and $200M globally—marking a major win for Lionsgate.

On Saturday, (April 25), Jaafar Jackson expressed his gratitude on Instagram for the Michael biopic reaching No. 1, sharing his appreciation: "Wow so incredible to see!! The world has spoken and everyone is showing out. Thank you thank you thank you!!! ❤️ I couldn’t be happier and more grateful". He expressed immense pride and honor in portraying his uncle, Michael Jackson.

The Michael Jackson estate owns an equity share and gains financial benefits from the Michael (2026) biopic, produced with their active participation and starring his nephew, Jaafar Jackson. The estate significantly financed approximately $10–$15 million for reshoots to change the film's conclusion.

The Michael Jackson estate plays a significant role in the film's production. After facing a legal issue related to a prior settlement, the estate invested $15 million in additional photography (reshoots) to ensure the film adhered to legal agreements, thereby increasing their influence and stake in the production.

Michael's son, Prince Jackson, serves as an executive producer, providing the family with direct control over the project.

The estate manages the rights to Jackson's music, likeness, and life story, which are crucial for creating an authorized biopic.