Michael Jackson’s biopic could be split into two films

The upcoming Michael Jackson biopic could be divided into two films.

READ MORE: Quincy Jones, 1933-2024: mega-producer who broke boundaries with a twinkle in his eye

Titled Michael, the film will tell the story of the life and career of Michael Jackson, who will be portrayed by his own nephew, Jaafar Jackson.

Per the Hollywood Reporter, sources close to the project claim that director Antoine Fuqua and other executives from Lionsgate are currently considering splitting Michael into a two-parter.

Though a split hasn’t been confirmed, sources tell The Hollywood Reporter that the current cut of the film is nearing four hours, as they’re hoping to include as much as possible in their telling of the King Of Pop’s story. The film is currently still scheduled for an October 3 release in the United States, with a global release date not yet locked in – given the potential splitting, it is now unclear if Michael will meet its planned premiere date.

Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson in MICHAEL. Photo Credit: Kevin Mazur via Lionsgate

So far, limited information about the film has been made public. Its first trailer was revealed to critics at CinemaCon last April and was reportedly well received, but has yet to be officially released online or worldwide.

In January, it was reported that the film’s production had hit a major speed bump, and was being forced to reshoot its entire third act, which is said to depict sexual abuse allegations that the singer’s estate has banned from being dramatised.

The film has already attracted some criticism, including from Dan Reed – the director of the documentary Leaving Neverland – which documented allegations of sexual abuse against Michael. He recently criticised the making of the new biopic, saying it “will glorify a man who raped children”.

Alongside Jaafar Jackson, the cast also includes Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson and Miles Teller as manager John Branca. The Vampire Diaries star Kat Graham will play the iconic Diana Ross. Portraying industry titan Quincy Jones – who died in November – will be Insecure‘s Kendrick Sampson.

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