The nephew of the singer of the Michael Jackson biopic, Jaafar Jackson, plays the leading role

Director Antoine Fuqua’s upcoming Michael Jackson biopic, Michaelhas finally found its main star.

In 2019, reports first emerged that Bohemian Rhapsody Producer Graham King had acquired the rights to make a film about the life of the late singer in all its “complexity”.

He had also secured the rights to use all of Jackson’s music in the film, which deals with the singer’s “complex life”.

Now, a few years later, with the emancipation After the director was officially confirmed, it was announced that Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson will play his uncle in the film.

“Jaafar embodies my son. It is so wonderful to see him carry on the Jackson legacy of entertainers and artists,” said Jackson’s mother Katherine Jackson (via diversity).

Jaafar is the second youngest son of Jermaine Jackson, songwriter, producer, member of the Jackson 5 and older brother of Jackson.

Producer King said the team searched worldwide before deciding on Jaafar as the lead actor.

“I met Jaafar over two years ago and was blown away by how naturally he embodies Michael’s spirit and personality,” King said.

“It was so powerful that even after a worldwide search, it was clear that he was the only one who could take on the role. I am overjoyed that he agreed to play his uncle and can’t wait for the world to see him as Michael Jackson on the big screen.”

Fuqua added, “It’s incredibly exciting to see Jaafar bring Michael to life.

“When I first met Jaafar, there was such a spiritual connection, he has a natural ability to mimic Michael and such great chemistry with the camera.”

The film, which is said to feature Jackson’s “most iconic performances that made him the greatest entertainer of all time,” is being made in collaboration with the estate of Michael Jackson.

An earlier report by Deadline had said that the controversies surrounding Jackson would “not be ignored in a film that covers his entire life.”

Jackson was investigated twice for child abuse. He was not charged in 1994, but was tried in 2005 and acquitted of all charges.

The “Billie Jean” singer, who died in 2009 at the age of 50 from acute propofol and benzodiazepine poisoning, always protested his innocence.