The Biopic Success
- “Michael” (2026), the Antoine Fuqua-directed biopic starring Jaafar Jackson (Michael’s nephew) as the King of Pop, has indeed surpassed $700 million worldwide at the box office (reports cite figures around $703–$716 million).
- It opened strongly in late April 2026, reclaimed the #1 spot multiple times, and is on track to potentially become one of the highest-grossing biopics ever (though it trails some like Bohemian Rhapsody).
- The film focuses on Jackson’s rise from the Jackson 5 through the Bad era (up to around 1988), emphasizing his music, talent, and family dynamics. It has strong audience scores (often 96–97% on Rotten Tomatoes) but lower critic scores, with some complaints that it avoids or downplays later controversies.
Netflix’s Move
- Around the same time (mid-to-late May 2026), Netflix released a trailer for “Michael Jackson: The Verdict”, a three-part docuseries premiering June 3, 2026.
- It revisits the 2003–2005 child molestation case against Jackson (the 2005 trial in Santa Maria where he was acquitted on all charges). It features interviews with former jurors, prosecutors, journalists, and others discussing the allegations, investigation, and trial.
Fan Reaction
Many Jackson fans (often called “MJ fans” or defenders who believe he was innocent or the victim of extortion/media witch hunts) are furious. They see Netflix’s timing as opportunistic and insensitive—capitalizing on the biopic’s celebratory momentum to dredge up old, unproven allegations (Jackson was never convicted).
- Social media backlash includes boycott calls, subscription cancellations, and petitions.
- Some accuse Netflix of hypocrisy (e.g., not pursuing other high-profile cases like Epstein files as aggressively).
- This fits a long-standing divide: the estate/family-backed biopic celebrates his artistry and legacy, while documentaries like this (or past ones like Leaving Neverland) focus on the accusations.
In short: The biopic is a commercial hit treating Jackson as a musical icon, while Netflix’s project re-examines the darkest legal chapter. The timing has reignited old debates and upset fans who feel the positive cultural moment is being undermined. It’s classic Michael Jackson controversy—artistry vs. allegations—even years after his death.
