Jaafar Jackson Kept Biopic Role Secret from Family for Year

Jaafar Jackson, the 29-year-old nephew of the late pop icon Michael Jackson, revealed he kept his casting as the King of Pop in the upcoming biopic "Michael" a secret from his family for an entire year, including his mother. The film, directed by Antoine Fuqua, chronicles Michael Jackson's life and is set for release in theaters on April 24, 2026.

Jackson, son of Jermaine Jackson, a founding member of the Jackson 5, makes his acting debut in the role. He discussed the decision to withhold the news during a conversation with costar Miles Teller, who portrays Michael's lawyer and manager, John Branca. "No one in my family knew for a full year. I kept it pretty quiet until I felt comfortable enough to share it," Jackson said. His mother, Alejandra Jackson, visited the set once without knowing what to expect and later reacted emotionally upon seeing footage. "When my mom saw it onscreen, it blew her away. It was hard for her to connect it to me, so it was very emotional for her," he added. Jackson noted his mother found the experience strange, given her protective nature amid the anticipated public attention. His father has yet to view the film.

The secrecy allowed Jackson to...