‘Michael’ Sets New Biopic Record With Massive $97M Domestic Debut

Michael arrived in theaters with numbers that immediately reset expectations for the biopic genre. The Lionsgate release opened to $97 million domestically and $217 million worldwide, placing it among the biggest debuts of the year and setting a new benchmark for films centered on real-life figures. Previous standouts in the category, including Straight Outta Compton and Bohemian Rhapsody, posted far smaller opening weekends before building momentum over time. This time, the audience showed up from the start.

Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film traces Michael Jackson’s rise from his early years with the Jackson 5 to global superstardom. Jaafar Jackson—Michael’s nephew—takes on the lead role in his first major acting performance, supported by Colman Domingo and Nia Long as Joe and Katherine Jackson. In the weeks leading up to its release, projections placed the film well below its eventual total, but interest continued to build as opening weekend approached, pushing it far past early estimates.

Reception has been split, with critics raising concerns about the film’s approach to later chapters of Jackson’s life. Audiences have responded differently. Exit polls reflected strong enthusiasm, including an A- CinemaScore and high recommendation rates. Ticket buyers skewed older, with a large portion of the audience over 25, while turnout also extended across racial and generational lines. Strong word of mouth helped carry the film through the weekend, turning it into an event beyond core fans. Internationally, the film followed a similar pattern. It launched in dozens of markets and delivered a strong overseas total, reinforcing MJ’s global reach.

Photo Credit: Dalvin Adams

The release also connects to a broader cultural moment for the cast. Long, Domingo, and Jaafar Jackson recently appeared on the digital cover of ESSENCE earlier this month, which focused on the making of the film. During that conversation, Long spoke about the approach behind the project. “The goal for us, for me, was to just honor Michael in a way that would just make the fans excited,” she said. “We wanted to tell the story the way the story really needs to be told, but also, we wanted fans to get excited that this was happening.”

Opening weekend numbers place Michael in a strong position moving forward, with audience support likely to shape its long-term run.

TOPICS:  black film colman domingo Jaafar Jackson Michael Jackson Nia Long

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