'Michael' film box office opening nears $100m in US with $200m global debut projected

The Michael film's box office performance has exceeded early projections, with the biographical drama on Michael Jackson expected to open between $90 million and $100 million in the United States and surpass $200 million globally.

Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film delivered $38.5 million on its opening day, signalling strong audience turnout across multiple demographics.

Industry tracking had initially estimated a domestic debut between $65 million and $70 million, but revised projections indicate significantly higher performance.

The film’s early momentum was supported by $12.6 million in preview screenings held on Wednesday and Thursday, placing it alongside other major releases in 2026.

Nearly 40 per cent of total revenue has come from IMAX and premium large-format screenings, reflecting high demand for enhanced viewing formats.

Internationally, the film is also performing strongly, with an estimated $114 million opening across overseas markets. It has launched in 82 territories this weekend, excluding Japan, and is projected to rank number one in 64 of those markets.

Audience reception appears to be contributing to sustained turnout. The film recorded a 96 per cent audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, alongside PostTrak exit scores in the low 90s and an 85 per cent recommendation rate. These figures indicate continued interest beyond initial release.

The release marks one of the largest openings for a music biopic, surpassing previous benchmarks set by films such as Straight Outta Compton and Bohemian Rhapsody. It is also expected to become one of Lionsgate’s highest openings in recent years.

The film’s production included additional photography that increased its budget from $155 million to approximately $200 million. The narrative focuses on earlier stages of Michael Jackson’s career, concluding with the 1988 Bad World Tour.