Michael Jackson biopic reshoot changes ending after $15m production cost increase

Michael Jackson biopic, 'Michael' undergoes reshoots altering ending and adding $15 million to production budget

The upcoming Michael, directed by Antoine Fuqua, has undergone significant changes following reshoots that altered the film’s narrative and increased its overall budget.

The production, which stars Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson, required 22 additional days of filming in 2025. These reshoots reportedly added $15 million to the budget, which was initially estimated at $155 million.

According to reports, the changes were driven by legal complications linked to how certain allegations in Jackson’s life were portrayed. The original version of the film was intended to focus heavily on the impact of child abuse allegations, with a significant portion of the third act dedicated to that period.

However, due to a prior settlement between Jackson’s estate and the Chandler family, references to Jordan Chandler could not be included in the film.

As a result, the final version presents a revised conclusion. Instead of focusing on controversy, the film now ends during Jackson’s Bad tour, depicting the performer preparing to go on stage.

A source familiar with the completed version stated that the film concludes with Jackson still at the height of his career.

Filming for the revised material took place in Los Angeles, following earlier production in Santa Barbara. The shift in location meant the project did not qualify for certain tax incentives, contributing to increased costs.

Reports indicate that the Jackson estate covered these additional expenses and, in doing so, secured an equity stake in the film.

There have also been discussions about expanding the project into multiple instalments. Producer Graham King has indicated that the original cut exceeded three and a half hours, and additional material could be used for a potential follow-up film.

The film is scheduled for release by Lionsgate on April 24.