*A leaked draft of the script for the forthcoming Michael Jackson biopic, “Michael,” allegedly portrays him as innocent of child abuse.
“If the script as written ends up onscreen—which is a big caveat here because words and scenes are often changed during shoots, and not everything goes in the final cut—this will be super controversial,” wrote Puck reporter Matthew Belloni, who read a version of the screenplay. “It not only engages, it wants very much to convince you Michael is innocent.”
We reported previously that Lionsgate and Universal Pictures International have slated the worldwide release on April 18th, 2025, for the Antoine Fuqua-directed film starring Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson. Nia Long will portray Katherine Jackson, and Emmy Award-winning actor Colman Domingo will star as MJ’s father, Joe Jackson.
According to Belloni, the version of the script he read “opens with Jackson watching police arrive at his estate following allegations made by a then 13-year-old Jordan Chandler,” Complex writes. Jackson ultimately reached a $20 million settlement with his accuser. In the screenplay, Jackson’s lawyers describe the child abuse allegations as an “extortion” attempt.
“The takeaway from Michael is that Michael Jackson had an abusive father who caused him to become a horribly insecure yet harmless Peter Pan, constantly reliving the childhood he never had. And ultimately, that was weaponized by bad people trying to exploit him,” wrote Belloni.
“What’s interesting is how aggressive the script is in the pursuit to make Michael look innocent,” he added.
Meanwhile, The Jasmine Brand reports that the biopic’s synopsis reads: “‘Michael’ will bring audiences a riveting and honest portrayal of the brilliant yet complicated man who became the King of Pop. The film presents his triumphs and tragedies on an epic, cinematic scale — from his human side and personal struggles to his undeniable creative genius, exemplified by his most iconic performances. As never before, audiences will experience an inside look into one of the most influential, trailblazing artists the world has ever known.”
The film is now in production, according to a press release.
READ MORE: Nia Long to Star as Katherine Jackson in Michael Jackson Biopic
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