*Michael Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson will portray the King of Pop in Lionsgate’s upcoming biopic “Michael,” directed by Antoine Fuqua.
“It’s incredibly exciting to watch Jaafar bring Michael to life,” Fuqua said in a statement to Variety. “There was such a spiritual connection when I first met Jaafar, who has a natural ability to emulate Michael and such a great chemistry with the camera.”
A worldwide casting search was conducted to find the perfect actor to play the late music icon but producer Graham King ultimately settled on Jaafar. King said, “It was clear that he is the only person to take on this role.”
“I am beyond thrilled that he has come on board to portray his uncle and cannot wait for the world to see him on the big screen as Michael Jackson,” King told Variety.
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According to the studio, the biopic will unpack Jackson’s road to fame, “including his most iconic performances that led him to become the greatest entertainer of all time.” The film will also cover accusations that Jackson molested children.
Jaafar, the son of Jermaine Jackson and Alejandra Genevieve Oaziaza, will make his acting debut with “Michael.”
“It’s incredibly exciting to watch Jaafar bring Michael to life,” Fuqua told Variety. “There was such a spiritual connection when I first met Jaafar, who has a natural ability to emulate Michael and such a great chemistry with the camera.”
MJ’s mother Katherine has given her approval, telling The Hollywood Reporter, “It’s so wonderful to see him carry on the Jackson legacy of entertainers and performers.”
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Jaafar announced the project on his Instagram account this week, writing “I’m humbled and honored to bring my Uncle Michael’s story to life,” he captioned a black and white photo of himself as MJ striking his iconic pose.
“To all the fans all over the world, I’ll see you soon,” he added.
There is no official release date for “Michael.”
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