Netflix nearly pulled Michael Jackson docuseries

A controversial documentary series about Michael Jackson's 2005 criminal trial was nearly pulled by Netflix just days before its scheduled release, according to a report published on July 24, 2026. The streaming service has strongly denied the claims.

The three-part series, "Michael Jackson: The Verdict," premiered on June 3 as planned. The documentary, directed by Nick Green and produced by Candle True Stories, reexamines the trial in which Jackson was acquitted on all charges, including multiple counts of child molestation. It features testimony from jurors, associates, and supporters involved in the case.

Sources told Variety that Netflix executives considered canceling the series a week before its debut, primarily over fears of a potential lawsuit from Jackson's estate. One source stated the concern was "the fear of a lawsuit from the estate rather than the fans. Netflix was really scared of their financial muscle." The estate has a history of legal action, having previously sued HBO and ABC over documentaries about the singer. Another source noted the potential embarrassment of pulling the project after its trailer had already been released, calling it "a huge story."