The highly anticipated biopic Michael is reportedly facing serious challenges, primarily due to its third act being deemed legally unusable. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, known for films like Training Day, and penned by acclaimed screenwriter John Logan, the film is slated for release by Lionsgate on October 3. It showcases Jaafar Jackson, the nephew of Michael Jackson, in the titular role, alongside a cast that includes Colman Domingo, Nia Long, Miles Teller, Laura Harrier, Kat Graham, Larenz Tate, and Derek Luke.
This cinematic portrayal aims to tackle the controversial 1993 allegations of child sexual abuse that were leveled against the legendary pop star. These allegations originated from Evan Chandler, who accused Jackson of sexually abusing his 13-year-old son, Jordan. This led to a criminal probe by the Los Angeles Police Department, culminating in a civil lawsuit against Jackson, which concluded with a financial settlement in January 1994. The implications of this legal aftermath are now casting a shadow over the film’s anticipated premiere.
Challenges Facing the Michael Biopic
Controversies Surrounding the Film’s Third Act
According to journalist Matt Belloni’s newsletter for Puck, the biopic is currently in a precarious situation. Unlike previous portrayals of Michael Jackson, this film notably focuses on the serious allegations of sexual abuse leveled against him. Since John Branca and John McClain, executors of Jackson’s estate, are involved in the project, their influence is significant. Belloni notes that the narrative crafted in Michael suggests the protagonist’s innocence concerning the accusations.
Jackson has consistently denied these allegations and was acquitted of separate charges in a 2005 trial. The structure of the film revolves around the 1993 investigation into Jordan Chandler’s allegations, serving as a framework for the overall narrative. Notably, Belloni indicates that the portrayal positions Jackson as a victim of extortion from the Chandlers, depicting scenes where Jackson’s legal team, including characters played by Miles Teller and Derek Luke, considers settling with the Chandlers.
A pivotal point in the biopic highlights a strip search undergone by Jackson during the investigation. However, a critical misstep occurred when Jackson’s estate, prior to the film’s development, agreed not to feature the Chandlers in any dramatization.Reports indicate there is a binding agreement that restricts any portrayal of the Chandlers and their experiences, which was overlooked during the script review process.
Three different sources have highlighted that Branca initially assured producer Graham King and the film’s team that there were no legal impediments affecting the project’s advancement. However, complications arose following a September report from the Financial Times, which revealed that Branca was allegedly making undisclosed payments to several accusers who emerged after the 2019 HBO documentary Leaving Neverland.
Implications for the Michael Biopic
A Revised Script Is in Development
Amid these developments, King, Fuqua, and Logan are reportedly strategizing a path forward. The team is expected to provide Lionsgate with an updated script and shooting plan shortly, with potential reshooting commencing within days. Universal Pictures, responsible for international distribution, must also approve these modifications, leaving open the possibility of withdrawing from the project altogether if they do not reach a consensus.
Despite these hurdles, there remains a glimmer of hope. Early screenings have yielded positive feedback, and some observers believe Lionsgate could still meet their targeted October release date. Nonetheless, this long-anticipated project has faced numerous delays, and this latest setback adds to its uncertain trajectory.
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