Antoine Fuqua is keeping things close-knit for his upcoming Michael Jackson biopic. According to Deadline, Jackson’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson, will play the King of Pop in the Fuqua-directed film. Fuqua confirmed Jackson’s inclusion through Instagram. Fuqua’s social media update includes a photo of Jaafar dancing in a private studio with wall-to-wall mirrors. In the image, Jaafar is wearing Jackson’s signature black shoes made from Florsheim Imperial leather and a black fedora. Jaafar is striking a classic M.J. pose as he evaluates his moves from every angle.
Jaafar Jackson is a singer and son writer, and the son of Jermaine Jackson, one of Michael’s brothers and a former member of the Jackson 5. Talent runs in the family, and Jaafar has been singing and dancing since age twelve. In addition to writing and performing original music, Jaafar Jackson performs covers by Sam Cooke and Marvin Gaye. Jaafar’s singing voice is eerily similar to his Uncle Michael’s, and he has the dance moves to match.
“Jaafar embodies my son. It’s so wonderful to see him carry on the Jackson legacy of entertainers and performers,” said Katherine Jackson.
“I met Jaafar over two years ago and was blown away by the way he organically personifies the spirit and personality of Michael,” said producer Graham King. “It was something so powerful that even after conducting a worldwide search, it was clear that he is the only person to take on this role. I am beyond thrilled that he has come on board to portray his uncle and cannot wait for the world to see him on the big screen as Michael Jackson.”
“It’s incredibly exciting to watch Jaafar bring Michael to life,” said Fuqua. “There was such a spiritual connection when I first met Jaafar, who has a natural ability to emulate Michael and such a great chemistry with the camera.”
Fuqua’s Michael biopic focuses on the life and times of the late entertainer, including controversies associated with the singer. The plot includes elements of Jackson’s pedophile accusations and the bizarre circumstances surrounding his death at 50. To make the project as authentic as possible, the Michael Jackson estate will give M.J.’s musical catalog rights to Fuqua for use in the film. Fuqua is walking a thin line by signing onto the Michael biopic, which will celebrate the iconic figure while exploring his faults. Jackson’s life turned messy toward the end, making him a problematic celebrity to celebrate without destroying his image. Many people turn a blind eye to accusations made against Jackson to preserve the image of his timeless tunes. Can Fuqua and his team accurately portray M.J. without tarnishing his legacy?
While the film is bound to include some disturbing aspects of Jackson’s life and career, the goal is to create a cinematic celebration of his career and the gifts he gave to the world. Will Fuqua be able to thread the needle? What are your favorite Michael Jackson songs? Mine are “Rock With You,” “Scream,” “Man in the Mirror,” “Dirty Diana,” and “P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing.” Feel free to leave a list of your favorites below.