Michael Jackson Biopic Makes $1 Billion Despite Controversy

All of the controversy surrounding Antoine Fuqua’s Michael Jackson biopic has clearly not stood in the way of the film succeeding at the box office.

Earlier this year, Michael hit cinemas, leaving critics divided, not least because of the fact the film ends in 1988, meaning the allegations of child sexual abuse levelled against the Billie Jean singer in his lifetime were not included in the film.

Since its release in April, Michael has proved to be a smash at the global box office, eventually overtaking Oppenheimer to become the highest-grossing biopic of all time.

Over the weekend, it was revealed officially that the movie had made $1 billion (around £746 million), becoming the first biopic in history to do so.

“Reaching this extraordinary $1 billion milestone with Michael is a deeply humbling moment that celebrates the tireless dedication of our incredible producers, cast, crew and partners,” the film’s director said in a statement.

“This achievement belongs to everyone who came together with a shared vision to honour one of the greatest artists the world has ever known.”

Antoine continued: “I am profoundly grateful to the audiences around the globe who embraced this film, showed up in theatres, and connected with this story across generations and cultures.

“This historic milestone is a testament to the enduring power of cinema to bring us together, and it is a chapter in movie history I will never forget.”

Jafaar Jackson, the late performer’s nephew, takes the lead as Michael Jackson in the film, which also features performances from Nia Long, Miles Teller and Oscar nominee Colman Domingo.

It’s no secret that Michael was originally supposed to include details of the allegations made against the Grammy winner, with some scenes even being filmed.

However, these were scrapped when production learned of a clause in the settlement between Jackson and one of his accusers which meant that his likeness and name could not ever be used in a film.

As a result, costly reshoots took place, with the decision being made to re-shift the film’s plot to be more about Jackson’s relationship with his father, ending the story in the late 80s.

It had previously been suggested that a sequel to Michael could focus on the chart-topping performer’s later years, and the controversies he faced around that time, which looks increasingly likely given part one’s box office success.