Safechuck Supports Survivors Amid Jackson Biopic Debut

James Safechuck, one of two men who alleged childhood sexual abuse by Michael Jackson in the 2019 HBO documentary Leaving Neverland, released a video message on Friday offering support to fellow survivors amid the theatrical debut of the singer's new biopic, Michael. The film, directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring Jackson's nephew Jaafar Jackson, chronicles the pop icon's rise from his Jackson 5 days to global fame, concluding in 1988 before the first public allegations surfaced.

In the message, shared through his legal representatives, Safechuck addressed the widespread promotion of the biopic, including billboards and commercials praising Jackson. "It can be triggering for survivors who have their own Michael in their lives, whether it's the priest who's close to God or the sports coach who's just helping the kids or the stepparent who's supporting the family," he said. "Our abusers are praised sometimes, even after we come out and tell the truth." Safechuck emphasized solidarity, urging those affected to seek support from loved ones and affirming that sharing their stories aids healing. "You are not alone," he added, "and that telling the truth and telling what happened is...