Michael Becomes No. 2 Biopic by Gross as Sequel Talk Grows
Updated
Updated · The Atlantic · May 16
Michael Becomes No. 2 Biopic by Gross as Sequel Talk Grows
2 articles · Updated · The Atlantic · May 16
"Michael" has already become the second-highest-grossing biopic of all time, with its box-office run now fueling serious speculation about a sequel because the story stops in the late 1980s.
Late-1980s nostalgia and Michael Jackson's singular pop stature appear to have outweighed backlash over the film's shallow reviews and its omission of child-abuse allegations that have long shadowed his legacy.
Scenes tied to the 1993 lawsuit were filmed but later removed after legal issues, prompting millions of dollars in reshoots and sharpening criticism that the movie sidesteps the most contentious parts of Jackson's life.
Nearly 20 years after Jackson's 2009 death, the film's performance suggests his mythology still draws audiences who want the icon and the music history more than a reckoning with the full record.
Will the planned sequel to 'Michael' finally confront the abuse allegations, or will the estate continue to shape Jackson's legacy on its own terms?
How does the massive audience embrace of 'Michael' reflect society’s willingness to separate artistry from personal controversy?
What impact could the new allegations and Paris Jackson’s legal victory have on future portrayals of Michael Jackson’s life and estate transparency?
Michael Jackson Biopic "Michael" Surpasses $500 Million: Box Office Triumph, Critical Divide, and the Future of Music Biopics
Overview
Antoine Fuqua’s biopic 'Michael' has become a major box office hit since its release on April 24, 2026, quickly surpassing $500 million in global earnings. The film’s unique look at Michael Jackson’s life and career has attracted widespread audience enthusiasm, making it one of the most successful and talked-about movies of the year. Its strong financial performance and broad appeal highlight how a well-crafted biopic, focused on a legendary figure, can achieve both profitability and cultural impact, even as it sparks debate over its portrayal and narrative choices.