As fans get ready to see Michael, some cast members are explaining why the biopic does not address child molestation allegations made against Michael Jackson.
Oscar-nominated actor Colman Domingo and actress Nia Long, who play Jackson family parents Joe Jackson and Katherine Jackson, spoke with Today anchor Craig Melvin on Wednesday, April 22.
The two discussed the film’s focus after being asked how they would respond to criticism it “whitewashes” that part of the late King of Pop’s life.
“The film takes place from the ’60s to 1988, so it does not go into the first allegations,” Domingo said. “So basically, we centered it on the makings of Michael. So, it’s an intimate portrait of who Michael is … through his eyes. So, that’s what it is, that’s what this film is.”
The actor then said there might be a second film.
“There’s a possibility of there being a part two that may deal with some other things that happened afterwards. This is about the making of Michael, how he was raised, and then how he was trying to find his voice as an artist and be a solo artist. That’s what I have to say about that,” the actor continued.
When asked if those allegations could be addressed in a sequel, Domingo said it’s unclear.
“There could be a sequel. We don’t know yet.” Long added, “If the price is right.”
According to the official description, “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.”
Jaafar Jackson, the son of Jermaine Jackson, stars as his uncle. The cast also includes Kendrick Sampson as producer Quincy Jones, Miles Teller as business manager John Branca, Larenz Tate as Motown founder Berry Gordy, and Laura Harrier as music executive Suzanne de Passe.
According to Deadline, an earlier version of the film included an accuser whose past settlement barred their depiction in dramatizations, forcing the film’s production team to rework the ending.
In 2003, Jackson was charged with child molestation and intoxicating a minor. He denied the allegations and was acquitted in 2005. After the superstar singer’s death in 2009, allegations surfaced from other accusers.
As previously reported, Michael was originally expected to open in 2025, but was delayed amid reports it might be split into two parts.
The authorized biopic is produced by Graham King, along with John Branca and John McClain, co-executors of Michael Jackson’s estate. Antoine Fuqua directed from a script written by John Logan.
Michael is scheduled to arrive in theaters on April 24, 2026.
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