Jaafar Jackson had never acted before when he was approached to take on the role in his Michael Jackson biopic, Michael (2026). He didn’t ask for the role; instead, he sent a voice note to Graham King, the film’s producer, in which he spoke as Michael Jackson, and he was immediately brought on the project.
Jaafar Jackson spent a lot of time studying Michael Jackson, rehearsing moves over and over, and preparing himself for the part. Jaafar told Interview Magazine, “What really helped me was having access to Michael’s personal writings—his journaling, his poems, his mantras and affirmations. That was a breaking point for me. I started doing the same thing, putting affirmations on walls and mirrors.” It started with his voice, mannerisms, and movements.
Jaafar did more than just practice lines and study the role—he connected with what made Michael, Michael, to fully deliver the role. He brought preparation, focus, and intense determination to pull this off.
Jaafar said, “I remember growing up, and we would have family time. Michael would come over to where I was growing up, and we’d have days where we’d all get together and play family game day,” in his first television interview on USA TODAY.
Jaafar had a lot to prove to himself and his family in taking on this role. Growing up with Michael Jackson as an uncle gave him the ability to add a personal touch to the character and to get a lot of information from the family about who he was, so he could portray the role appropriately.
Michael Jackson’s mother, Katherine Jackson, gave her approval for Jaafar to play Michael when it was announced in 2023. Jackson told the BBC, “Jaafar embodies my son. It’s so wonderful to see him carry on the Jackson legacy of entertainers and performers.”
Jaafar was surrounded by support from friends, family, and the film’s team. He mentioned that he wanted to maintain a perfect balance in the film, avoiding one element overpowering another. For example, not allowing the acting to overpower the dancing, and vice versa. He wanted it to feel natural throughout the movie, and even though this was his first time acting, he didn’t want it to seem like it.
Jaafar noted in a recent Instagram post, “I’m humbled and honored to bring my uncle Michael’s story to life for all the fans all over the world. I’ll see you soon.”
The movie Michael premieres in theaters on April 24.
