Michael Jackson's Nephew Will Portray Michael Jackson in Forthcoming Biopic

Jaafar Jackson, son of Jermaine Jackson, is set to portray Michael Jackson in forthcoming Antoine Fuqua-directed biopic Michael.

Forthcoming Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, has found its leading man. On Monday (January 30), it was revealed that Jaafar Jackson, son of Jackson Five member Jermaine Jackson and nephew of Michael, will portray the latter in the Antoine Fuqua-directed film.

“It’s incredibly exciting to watch Jaafar bring Michael to life,” said Fuqua in a press statement. “There was such a spiritual connection when I first met Jaafar, who has a natural ability to emulate Michael and such a great chemistry with the camera.”

Jaafar, 26, is the youngest son of Jermaine Jackson and will be the center of Michael, which "will explore all aspects of Michael’s life, including his most iconic performances that led him to become the greatest entertainer of all time."

Fuqua confirmed the movie earlier this month, who said in a statement that he "was influenced to make music videos" by watching Jackson's work. "His music and those images are part of my worldview, and the chance to tell his story on the screen alongside his music was irresistible," Fuqua added.

Principal photography for the film will begin this year, produced by Graham King (The Aviator, Bohemian Rhapsody) and the co-executors of Jackson's estate, John Branca and John McClain.

Per Lionsgate, Michael will chronicle all aspects of Jackson’s life, although it’s unclear how it will approach multiple controversies that the artist faced. In 2019, HBO released documentary film Leaving Neverland, with highlighted accusations of child sexual abuse at Jackson’s Neverland Ranch residence in Santa Barbara County, California.

Jackson, a 12-time Grammy Award winner and world-renowned music icon, died in 2009 from a cardiac arrest brought on by acute propofol intoxication.