The film has now grossed over $788 million globally as of the latest weekend, according to Variety, putting it within striking distance of the $800 million milestone. Its performance has been powered by strong international demand, with $468 million coming from overseas markets and $319 million from domestic earnings.
The movie, which was released in cinemas on April 24, still has additional upside as it prepares for a major release in Japan on June 12—one of the few remaining key markets yet to be accounted for. Industry analysts suggest that inclusion of Japanese box office results could significantly boost its final global total.
If momentum continues after that release, Michael could potentially overtake 2018’s Bohemian Rhapsody, which finished its theatrical run at $911 million, making it the highest-grossing music biopic of all time. It has already surpassed 2022’s Elvis, which grossed more than $288 million worldwide.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film features Jaafar Jackson in the lead role, alongside a cast that includes Nia Long, Laura Harrier, Juliano Krue Valdi, Miles Teller, and Colman Domingo.
The story presents a cinematic retelling of Michael Jackson’s life and career, focusing not only on his musical evolution but also on his personal journey. It traces his early days as the standout voice of The Jackson 5 through his emergence as a solo artist and global superstar.
“Michael is the cinematic portrayal of the life and legacy of one of the most influential artists the world has ever known,” the film’s synopsis reads. “The film tells the story of Michael Jackson’s life beyond the music…”
It continues:
“…tracing his journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of the Jackson Five, to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world.”
The narrative also highlights both his off-stage life and landmark performances, offering audiences a dramatized look at his rise to global fame.
Franchise Expansion Already in Motion
Even before the current film completes its full theatrical cycle, plans for expansion are already underway. A sequel is in development, according to studio updates, with further exploration expected into the later stages of Jackson’s career—material that the first film only begins to touch.
The first installment concludes during a pivotal moment in his transition from child star to solo global icon, leaving significant parts of his life story still open for future adaptation.
With strong box office performance and continued international rollout, Michael is shaping up not just as a standalone success, but as the foundation of a growing biographical film franchise centered on one of the world’s most influential entertainers.