Lionsgate and producer Graham King are making significant updates to ‘Michael,’ the upcoming biopic about Michael Jackson, with plans for a 22-day shoot of additional footage in June, sources tell The Hollywood Reporter.

The extended filming period signals forward momentum on a project that has faced challenges, particularly legal complications that have led the filmmakers to consider splitting the movie into two parts. While the script for a possible second installment is still being finalized, sources confirm that the June shoot is intended to complete the first film.

Although some have referred to the June production as “reshoots,” insiders clarify that it’s less about redoing scenes and more about expanding the film from what was initially half a story into a full-length feature. The revised narrative will now conclude with Jackson's departure from the Jackson 5 following the release of his first solo album, ‘Off the Wall.’

Directed by Antoine Fuqua, ‘Michael’ stars Jaafar Jackson — Michael Jackson’s nephew — as the iconic singer whose hits include “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” “Smooth Criminal,” and “Remember the Time.” The film also features performances by Colman Domingo, Nia Long, and Miles Teller.

However, the project has faced controversy due to allegations of child sexual abuse against Jackson later in his career. As reported by Puck in January, the film's original third act needed revision after it was discovered that it included a dramatization involving an accuser who had previously reached a settlement with the Jackson Estate that barred such depictions. The estate, which supports the film, had reportedly overlooked this agreement. As a result, the creative team opted to restructure the film, likely dividing it into two parts to address the issue more thoughtfully.

During a recent earnings call, Lionsgate CEO Jon Feltheimer indicated that ‘Michael’ is now targeting a 2026 release. The film had already been pushed from April 2025 to October of that year. Feltheimer added that director Fuqua and producer King have already filmed over three and a half hours of footage, with more updates expected soon, including a definitive release date.

MORE NEWS