Hollywood lit up in black attire and shimmering sequins on Monday as the Los Angeles premiere of the Michael Jackson biopic “Michael” drew fans to the iconic boulevard, celebrating the life of the late King of Pop.
The film traces the journey of Michael Jackson from his early days as a child star with the Jackson 5 to his rise as one of the most influential music icons in history. The movie arrives 16 years after his death and is set for US theatrical release on Friday.
Director Antoine Fuqua described the atmosphere at the premiere as emotional and celebratory. “It’s beautiful to see all these people here to support Michael Jackson and support the movie, and to show love for Michael,” he told AFP.
The premiere also carried a strong family presence, led by Michael Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson, who plays the late singer in the film.
“(This) being the first time that I’ve ever got into acting and to be able to portray my Uncle Michael, it’s so surreal,” he said. “I’m still taking it in and not really realising how much it’s going to hit me or when it’s going to hit me. But, you know, it’s incredible,” he added.
His performance received praise from family members who attended the event, with Michael’s brother, Jackie Jackson, expressing admiration for the portrayal.
“When I watch the movie, I think I’m watching Michael on the stage… He did such a wonderful job. (It) brings tears to my eyes,” he said on the black carpet.
Another Jackson 5 member, Marlon Jackson, reflected on the broader message of the film and the family’s shared experiences.
“I think people understand and realise that the Jackson family is no different from any family. We go through our trials and tribulations, ups and downs, but we learn to agree to disagree,” he said.
The event also became a family reunion, with Marlon, Jackie, Jaafar, and La Toya Jackson sharing moments on the black carpet while meeting cast members who portrayed them and their parents.
Actress Nia Long, who plays Katherine Jackson, highlighted the strength of the women in the family. She noted that in a male-dominated environment, they “set the baseline for how the family moved.”
She added that she hopes audiences will see Michael Jackson as “an artist who was a master of his artistry” and someone who “cared deeply about humanity.”
Actor Colman Domingo, who plays Joe Jackson, also reflected on the story behind the film, saying: “Everyone has a story, and everyone has something you can learn from, just like a great album.”
“Hopefully this film is a great album for someone, and if they could take something from it, then we did our job,” he added.
