The First Teaser for Michael, the Biopic on Michael Jackson
On November 6, the first teaser forMichael, the highly anticipated biopic about pop legend Michael Jackson, was released. This preview gives fans a glimpse of Jaafar Jackson, who plays his iconic uncle. The film is set to debut in April 2026. Since the teaser’s release, fans have been curious about several questions: Who is the actor playing Michael Jackson? Why does he look so much like the King of Pop? And what’s the story behind his famous last name? Here’s everything you need to know about Jaafar Jackson.
Who Is Jaafar Jackson?
The striking resemblance seen in the teaser is no coincidence. Jaafar Jackson is the late superstar’s nephew—the 29-year-old son of Michael’s older brother, Jermaine Jackson. Born in July 1996 in Los Angeles to Jermaine Jackson and Alejandra Genevieve Oaziaza, Jaafar initially did not plan to follow in the family’s musical footsteps. As a teenager, he pursued golf before discovering his true passion for music. He began singing and dancing at 12 and later showcased his talent as a pianist. In 2019, he released his debut single,Got Me Singing. He also appeared in the reality seriesThe Jacksons: Next Generationand has performed covers of classic artists such as Sam Cooke and Marvin Gaye.
Music Runs in the Family
Jaafar comes from one of the most celebrated families in music history. His father, Jermaine, and uncles—Jackie, Marlon, Tito, Michael, and Randy—were members of the legendary R&B group The Jackson 5. His aunts—Janet, La Toya, and Rebbie Jackson—are also renowned musicians.
A Close Bond with His Uncle
Jaafar shared a close relationship with his uncle Michael. “I recall being at Neverland, playing hide and seek, going on rides, watching movies, and just having a great time,” he told the South China Morning Post. Although he wasn’t pursuing music during his uncle’s career peak, he often wonders about the conversations they might have had about the craft. “I would have asked him many questions about the career I have chosen for myself,” he said. Losing his uncle was heartbreaking. “It was very tough. I can’t even put my mind back to how it felt that day,” Jaafar told Get Balanced.
What to Expect fromMichael
The biopic promises to offer a deeply personal look at Michael Jackson’s life—his rise to global fame, his struggles, and the legacy he left behind. Jaafar’s casting was personally endorsed by Michael’s mother, Katherine Jackson, who said Jaafar “embodies” her son.
The film also features Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, Larenz Tate as Motown founder Berry Gordy, Miles Teller as Jackson’s attorney, and Kat Graham as Diana Ross. Directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by John Logan (Gladiator,Skyfall),Michaelwill chronicle the artist’s journey from his beginnings with The Jackson 5 to his reign as one of the most influential entertainers in history. According to the filmmakers, the movie will give audiences “a front-row seat to Michael Jackson as never before.”