The film about Michael Jackson’s life is facing accusations of nepotism by casting the singer’s nephew as the lead actor.
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Fans of Michael Jackson are criticizing the choice of artist to portray the King of Pop in the highly anticipated biographical film about the singer; they accuse the film’s production of nepotism for casting Jaafar Jackson, the son of Michael’s older brother Jermaine Jackson, as the film’s lead actor.
The 27-year-old singer was chosen to portray his uncle in the film directed by Antoine Fuqua; according to Deadline, the new biopic will cover Jackson’s life from his childhood, his years with The Jackson Five, his explosive success as a solo artist, his controversies, and up to the civil and criminal trials before his death in 2009 at the age of 50.
The film will be produced by Graham King, the Oscar winner for “Bohemian Rhapsody”; in a statement, he explained why he chose Jaafar to star in the biopic: “I have known Jaafar for over two years and have been impressed by how he organically embodies Michael’s spirit and personality,” he said. “It was so powerful that even after a global search, it was clear that he is the only person to take on this role.”
Fuqua also defended the singer’s nephew as the ideal performer; the director shared on his Instagram a black-and-white photo of Jaafar, already as Jackson, and added in a statement that he “has a natural ability to mimic Michael and a great chemistry with the camera”.
Nevertheless, fans of Michael Jackson have accused the film’s production of nepotism: “Michael Jackson’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson, has been cast to play his uncle in an upcoming biographical film. Is this a stroke of casting genius or another case of nepotism?” one asked. “Nepotism? Sure. On the other hand, I couldn’t think of any young actor who could play this role,” pondered another.
The film “Michael” is being produced in cooperation with the singer’s family, and the screenplay is written by John Logan, responsible for successes like “Gladiator” and “The Aviator”. According to Lionsgate studio, filming begins this year, and the premiere of the King of Pop’s biopic is scheduled for April 2025.