Lionsgate’s ‘Michael’ Trailer Becomes Most-Watched Music Biopic Launch With 116.2M Views

Lionsgate released the first official teaser trailer for the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, on Thursday. And after its initial 24 hours, the views racked up to 116.2 million globally, according to WaveMetrix, making it the most-viewed trailer for any music biopic in history and now holding the title for Lionsgate as the studio’s largest trailer debut.

Jaafar Jackson, nephew of the late Michael Jackson, stars as the King of Pop. In the first footage, Jaafar is seen recreating the musician’s iconic dance moves, such as the moonwalk, and it also teases a clip of the “Thriller” music video. The trailer will play in theaters starting next week.

Additional cast members include Miles Teller as attorney John Branca, Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Kat Graham as Diana Ross, Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, Laura Harrier as Suzanne de Passe, Kendrick Sampson as Quincy Jones and Juliano Krue Valdi as a young Michael.

Here is the official synopsis: “The film tells the story of Michael Jackson’s life beyond the music, tracing his journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of the Jackson Five, to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world. Highlighting both his life off-stage and some of the most iconic performances from his early solo career, the film gives audiences a front-row seat to Michael Jackson as never before. This is where his story begins.”

Antoine Fuqua directs the feature with a script by John Logan. Meanwhile, Graham King, John Branca and John McClain serve as producers. Michael hits theaters April 24, 2026.

Watch the trailer below.

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